When You Should Be Worried About Cracks in Brick

Although brick walls are durable, they can develop cracks over time. Some cracks are purely cosmetic, while others may signify a structural problem. It’s essential to be able to identify which type of crack you’re dealing with to determine the best course of action.

If you spot cracks in your brick walls, don’t panic. Contact the experts at D’Angelo Brick Repair. We have the experience and knowledge in tuck painting and parapet wall repair in Hamilton to properly assess the situation and provide you with the best solution. We’re here to help, so please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Are Cracks in a Brick House Normal?

The simple answer is no. Cracks in brick walls are not normal and should be addressed as soon as possible. A problem in your home’s foundation can manifest as cracks in retaining walls, exterior walls, or floors. The best way to determine if a crack is serious is to have it evaluated by a professional.

Why do Bricks Crack?

Brick is a durable material, but it’s not immune to cracking. It is also a porous material that contracts and expands with time. Cracks can occur for several reasons, including:

– Changes in temperature

– Poorly compacted soil

– Foundation settling

– Moisture or humidity

Do Cracks in Brick Mean Foundation Problems?

Cracks in brick walls can be caused by various factors, including foundation settling. As your home’s foundation settles, it can stress the brick walls, causing them to crack. If you notice cracks in your brick walls, it’s vital to have them evaluated by a professional as soon as possible.

Crack in Brick But Not Foundation

While foundation problems can cause cracks in your brick walls, this is not always the case. Changes in temperature or moisture levels can also cause damage. To determine the cause of the crack, you should get a professional to take a look.

Thermal Cracks in Brickwork

Thermal cracks are cracks caused by the contraction and expansion of the building due to temperature changes. These cracks often start off as hairline cracks in bricks. They may later develop into what is known as a vertical crack in brick wall or stair-step cracks.

Types of Cracks in Brick Walls

Different types of cracks can occur in brick walls, each with its own set of causes and solutions. The most common types of cracks are:

– Vertical cracks

– Horizontal cracks

– stair step cracks

– Brick veneer cracks

– Small exterior cracks

– Other types of cracks

Vertical Cracks

When the temperature outside fluctuates, it can cause the brick to contract and expand. This can lead to cracking. When you see vertical cracks in mortar joints, it may be due to expansion and contraction resulting from hot weather. However, cracks on the inside of your home may be due to foundation problems. You need to contact a professional as soon as possible.

Horizontal Cracks

One of the most common types of cracks in brick walls is the horizontal crack. They can be caused by a number of factors, including structural issues as a result of ground movement or deterioration. These cracks are more common in old buildings.

Stair Step Cracks

Firstly, what causes stair step cracks? Staircase cracks can be a sign of a sinking foundation. They are easy to spot, as they literally move with the mortar of your outer wall. Sometimes you may also notice warping doors and windows or bulging drywall. It’s important to have this problem addressed as soon as possible, as it can lead to further damage down the line.

Brick Veneer Cracks

A brick veneer is a thin layer of brick that is applied to the exterior of a home. It is not load-bearing, so it is not as durable as solid brick walls. Over time, the brick veneer can develop cracks due to weathering or settling foundations. Although it is often a cosmetic problem, it can worsen quickly because the brick is relatively small.

Small Exterior Cracks

Small exterior cracks are usually about 1/16 of an inch and are not a cause for concern and can be easily fixed with some caulking or mortar. However, if you notice any cracks that are wider than a ¼ inch, you should have them inspected by a professional as soon as possible. If you notice that the cracks keep growing, it’s a sign of a bigger problem.

Other Types of Cracks

There are many other types of cracks that can occur in brick walls, each with its own set of causes and solutions. Although most of these are only cosmetic, if they are deep or wide, it’s important to have them looked at by a professional. The best way to determine if a crack is serious is to have it evaluated by a professional.

D’Angelo Brick Repair is your one-stop shop for all your brick repair needs. We have over 50 years of experience in the industry and can help you with any type of problem, big or small. Contact us today for a free consultation.

How to Repair a Cracked Brick Wall

The leading cause of brick problems is actually not cracks. They are the breakdown of the brick’s mortar. A professional mason will be able to repair your wall if the problem is localized. If you see severe cracks like horizontal or stair-step cracks, it’s best to call a professional as soon as possible.

For small cracks, you can use caulk or mortar to fill them in. First, clean out the crack with a wire brush and then apply the caulk or mortar. Be sure to smooth it out so that it blends in with the rest of the wall. For bigger cracks, you may need to replace the brick. To do this, chisel out the old brick and then put in a new one. Be sure to use mortar that matches the rest of the wall.

If you’re not sure how to proceed, it’s always best to contact a professional. D’Angelo Brick Repair can help you with any type of brick repair, big or small. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Do You Need Help With Your Brick Wall?

In most cases, they’re nothing to worry about. However, there are a few instances where cracks may indicate a more severe problem. D’Angelo Brick Repair is your one-stop shop for all your brick repair needs. We have over 50 years of experience in the industry and can help you with any type of problem, big or small. We’ve seen it all when it comes to cracks in brick walls, and we know how to fix them. Contact us today for a free consultation.

FAQs

Do cracked bricks need to be replaced?

It depends on the severity of the crack. For small cracks, you can use caulk or mortar to fill them in. First, clean out the crack with a wire brush and then apply the caulk or mortar. Be sure to smooth it out so that it blends in with the rest of the wall. For bigger cracks, you may need to replace the brick. To do this, chisel out the old brick and then put in a new one. Be sure to use mortar that matches the rest of the wall.

Are cracks in a brick house normal?

It’s not unusual for brick walls to develop cracks over time. The main cause of brick problems is not cracks. They are the breakdown of the brick’s mortar. A professional mason will be able to repair your wall if the problem is localized.

What causes cracks in brick walls?

There are many causes of cracks in brick walls, including weathering, settling foundations, and poor construction. The best way to determine the cause of the problem is to have it evaluated by a professional.

How do you fix cracks in brick steps?

The best way to fix cracks in brick steps is to get a professional company like D’Angelo Brick Repair to do the job for you.