If you notice that some of the brick on your building is starting to crack or crumble, it could be cause for concern. Cracked bricks are a common problem for brick walls. While this issue does not always indicate serious structural damage, it can make the structure susceptible to water damage and mold. It is essential to identify the cause of the brick cracking so you can fix the issue and take preventative measures to ensure that cracking does not occur in the future. Let’s go over the causes of cracked bricks and how to fix them.
House Settling
Most of the time, brick cracking simply indicates your house or building is settling, which is a natural occurrence. This happens when the lot was excavated before construction. Over time, the structure settles into the ground a bit more. Due to the continued weight of the building, the soil becomes compacted, causing some cracking on the walls. These types of cracks are expected, so there should not be cause for concern.
Water Retention
Moisture is very dangerous to brick and mortar structures. Cracks in masonry work may be caused by water retention as bricks are naturally porous. When exposed to too much moisture, the material absorbs it and causes it to expand. When bricks expand, they no longer fit the original layout, causing cracking of the bricks. Also, garden sprinklers, leaking pipes, and blocked gutters can cause cracks if the brick wall is constantly exposed to rain.
Corrosion of Building Materials
Brick and mortar structures are made to last a long time, but they are not indestructible. Weather, gravity, and poor maintenance impact buildings constantly. The building reinforcement is subject to corrosion, especially if the foundation is not done properly. Cracks in the foundations expose the reinforcement to moisture which can cause expansion and may lead to brick wall cracks. Catching these issues early will mean only minor repairs will be needed.
How to Fix Cracked Bricks
If the cracked bricks are not a foundational problem, the repair services will be relatively simple for a masonry professional to perform. However, if the damage is more widespread, you may need more extensive foundation repair. Some solutions for cracked bricks include:
- Replacement
- Repair of mortar joints
- Resurfacing
- Chimney repair
We here at Del Prete Masonry have decades of experience in commercial masonry construction and repair. Contact us today for all your masonry needs!
Contact Del Prete Masonry Today!
Whether you are ready to start your next masonry project or are still hesitant and have questions, Del Prete Masonry is here to help. We have the experience and expertise to get it right the first time. Questions? Want to visit some of our residential or commercial projects? Ready to set up a consultation? Feel free to give us a call at 410-683-0650 or visit us online. We are happy to serve Baltimore City and County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. To see examples of our work and to keep up with our new and exciting projects, be sure to Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
Tags: Commercial Brick Restoration, Commercial Concrete Repair