Fixing Cracked Brick Walls

Brick walls might seem rugged and indestructible, but they can deteriorate in many ways. Extreme temperatures, freezing and thawing cycles, exposure to precipitation, and shifting soil can all cause cracking. If left unaddressed, this damage can quickly turn into a major structural fiasco that could threaten the stability of your home.

In general, most brick wall cracks are cosmetic and easily repaired with a little effort. However, if you’re dealing with structural cracks that are a threat to the integrity of your house, it’s best to call in a professional to handle the task. This article will help you assess the type of crack in your brick wall and determine the best way to repair it.

Cracks running along a horizontal surface are a sign that the soil underneath your house is shifting and creating pressure on your foundation and walls. This type of crack can lead to serious structural problems that require extensive remediation, including foundation collapse and structural failure of the home itself.

Horizontal cracks that are closer to the bottom of the wall or where the brick meets the concrete foundation indicate structural damage due to settling of the foundation. If these cracks are widening over time, it’s best to hire a professional to inspect and implement remediation methods.

Vertical cracks on a brick wall can occur for many reasons, but they’re often indicative of water expansion. These cracks typically appear in the mortar joints and can result from a variety of issues, including poor drainage, soil moisture content, improper construction, and excessive pressure.

When repairing brick wall cracks, the first step is to remove the old mortar. Use a raking bar to remove mortar from the horizontal joint faces, working carefully not to damage the bricks. Do not go deeper than 2 centimeters into the brick wall. For vertical joints, use a chisel and hammer to remove the damaged mortar, but be careful not to damage the bricks themselves.

After fixing cracked brick walls mortar, clean and wet the surface of the wall. Dry brick can sap the moisture from new mortar, preventing it from setting properly. If possible, spray the wall with a hose until it’s thoroughly wet.

Once the surface of the brick is clean and damp, mix fresh mortar to fill in the cracks. Make sure that the mortar you use matches the color of your bricks to avoid visible patches in the wall. If you’re having trouble matching the color of your mortar, try using a mortar dye to get a perfect match. Be sure to keep the mortar moist while it’s drying, and spray the wall with a mist of water periodically for about three days to help it set properly. This article was adapted from an article originally published by BuilderOnline. Follow this link for more helpful how-to guides, expert advice, and cost guides. We also offer a free consultation service where a professional contractor can help you evaluate and address your needs for residential or commercial construction.

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