When To Worry About Cracks In Brick: A Comprehensive Guide

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Maintaining your home’s structural integrity is paramount to ensuring its longevity and safety. One particularly concerning issue that homeowners and property managers often face is the appearance of cracks in brickwork. While some cracks are harmless, others can signal serious foundation problems that require immediate attention.

To learn about the different types of cracks to monitor and the actions to take when you spot them, keep reading.

Identifying Different Types Of Cracks In Bricks

Understanding the various types of cracks in brickwork is essential for accurate assessment and timely intervention. Sometimes, these cracks are not a significant issue, but they may indicate a severe problem in other cases. Recognizing the different types of cracks can help determine the appropriate solution. Additionally, monitoring changes to the cracks over time is crucial for addressing potential issues early.

Hairline Cracks

Hairline cracks in structures are generally thin and superficial, often caused by natural settling or minor thermal expansion and contraction. These cracks typically do not pose structural concerns and can often be addressed with simple cosmetic repairs. However, it is crucial to monitor these cracks for any changes in size or pattern, as widening or spreading could indicate underlying structural issues that may necessitate professional evaluation.

Vertical Cracks

Running straight up and down, these cracks may indicate foundation movement and should be monitored closely. Vertical cracks can occur due to soil settling, shrinkage, or the natural aging of materials. If you notice these cracks, keep an eye on their progression. Small vertical cracks can usually be sealed with epoxy or polyurethane injections, but if they continue to grow, it may be necessary to consult a professional.

Horizontal Cracks

Often the most concerning, horizontal cracks can suggest severe foundation shifts or hydrostatic pressure. These cracks can compromise the structural integrity of your home and need immediate attention. Horizontal cracks are usually caused by soil pressure against the foundation walls, poor drainage, or water infiltration. Addressing these issues might involve improving drainage around the home, reinforcing the foundation walls, underpinning, or installing a sump pump to manage water accumulation.

Stair Step Cracks

Cracks resembling a staircase and usually following mortar joints can result from differential settling. These indicate that parts of the foundation are settling at different rates, potentially leading to structural problems. Addressing step cracks involves identifying the cause, which might require improving drainage, addressing moisture issues, or underpinning the foundation to stabilize settling.

Discover common foundation issues causing cracks in bricks & find effective repair solutions to maintain your property's structural integrity.

Diagonal Cracks

Appearing at an angle and running across walls and foundations, diagonal cracks signal uneven foundation settlement. Similar to stair-step cracks, they can be caused by shifting soil. A professional evaluation is crucial to determining the severity. Solutions may involve underpinning and soil stabilization.

When To Worry: Guidelines For Seeking Professional Help

Knowing when to seek professional help is crucial in preventing minor issues from escalating into major problems.

Large Or Widening Cracks

If you notice any crack that is more than 1/10 inch wide or appears to be widening over time, it’s time to consult a foundation repair expert. These cracks can indicate significant structural movement or settling, and delaying repairs may lead to more extensive damage. Monitor cracks in your brickwork closely to see if there are any changes occurring over time. But keep in mind that if the cracks are serious, solving the issue as soon as you can is the preferred approach.

Multiple Cracks

The presence of numerous cracks in different areas of your brickwork could indicate widespread structural issues. These cracks might appear in various patterns, such as stair-step, vertical, or horizontal. Each pattern can suggest different types of structural problems. For example, stair-step cracks often indicate differential settlement, where one part of the foundation is sinking more than another. Consult a pro who can help diagnose the specific issue and recommend appropriate solutions.

Misaligned Door And Window Frames

Doors and windows that no longer fit their frames properly may be a sign of significant foundation movement. This can make opening and closing doors and windows difficult, and you might notice gaps between the frames and the walls. Such misalignments often occur when the foundation settles unevenly, causing parts of the house to shift.

Bulging Or Bowing Walls

Any visible deformation of your walls is a serious indicator of underlying structural problems. Bulging or bowing walls can be caused by lateral pressure from soil, water, or other forces pushing against the exterior of your foundation. If not addressed promptly, this issue can lead to severe structural damage. Typically, this requires intervention from a foundation repair contractor who can recommend solutions such as wall anchors, braces, or rebuilding the affected section.

Water Infiltration

If cracks are accompanied by signs of moisture intrusion, such as dampness or mold growth, immediate action is required to prevent further damage. Water infiltration can weaken your foundation over time and lead to mold-related health issues. Waterproofing solutions, such as sealants or installing a sump pump, may be necessary to keep your foundation dry and secure.

How long does it take for a house to settle

Solutions, Repairs, And Prevention: Addressing Brick Cracks

Depending on the types of cracks in brick that you have, there are different solutions, repairs, and preventative steps that you can take.

Preventing And Slowing Cracks In Brick

Whether you already have issues with brick cracks or you just want to avoid the problem altogether, there are a few preventative measures you can take to mitigate some of the underlying issues that lead to cracks in your brickwork.

Here are some of the most common preventative measures to consider:

Control Moisture Levels: Use soaker hoses or drip irrigation to maintain consistent soil moisture levels around your foundation. Avoid excessive watering near the foundation. In dry climates, watering the soil around your foundation can help prevent soil shrinkage and expansion.

As previously mentioned, it’s also a good idea to ensure water is directed away from your foundation using gutters and downspouts. The ground around your home should slope away from the foundation to prevent water accumulation.

Plant Trees and Shrubs Carefully: Plant trees and large shrubs away from the foundation to prevent root intrusion. A general rule is to plant them at a distance equal to their mature height.

If you have existing trees close to your home, consider installing root barriers to prevent the roots from growing under your foundation.

Foundation Maintenance: Use simple tools like a carpenter’s level to check for any changes in the foundation’s level. Schedule regular inspections by a professional to catch potential problems early.

Seismic Retrofitting: In earthquake-prone areas, retrofitting your home to withstand seismic activity may be a good idea. This can prevent foundation movement and subsequent brick cracking.

By implementing these preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of cracks in your brickwork and address foundation issues before they become more serious. Regular maintenance and vigilance are key to preserving the structural integrity of your property.

Foundation Repair Solutions

When facing foundation problems, it is a good idea to consult a professional contractor or structural engineer for an accurate assessment and tailored solutions. Foundation repair methods differ based on the specific issues causing brickwork cracks, and professionals are adept at navigating the complexities of any problem you may encounter.

Here are some of the most effective methods for addressing and resolving these issues:

Underpinning (Piering): Underpinning, or piering, is a method to stabilize and strengthen compromised foundations by extending their depth or breadth to more stable soil. Contractors typically use push piers or helical piers. Push piers are hydraulically driven through weak soil to a load-bearing stratum, while helical piers are screwed into the ground, ideal for lighter structures and precise placement.

The primary goal is to stop building settlement and lift the foundation back to its original position (or as close as possible), closing cracks caused by uneven settling. This method effectively stabilizes the structure and prevents future cracks, ensuring long-term integrity.

Foundation Wall Anchors: Foundation wall anchors offer a reliable solution for structural issues, particularly for cracks in brick walls. By installing heavy-duty, galvanized steel anchors, the system stabilizes and reinforces the foundation. The anchors are embedded deep into stable soil, away from the foundation, effectively counteracting the lateral pressure that causes walls to bow and crack.

Foundation wall anchors offer a reliable solution for structural issues, particularly for cracks in brick walls.

This method distributes the pressure evenly, pulling the wall back and ensuring long-term stability.

Steel or Carbon Fiber Reinforcement: Steel or carbon fiber reinforcement is a reliable method to address structural issues in cracked brick walls, ensuring long-term stability. For steel reinforcement, plates or strips are fastened using high-strength epoxy or anchors to distribute the load and mitigate forces causing cracks. Carbon fiber reinforcement involves applying a carbon fiber fabric with strong adhesive, offering lightweight yet durable support.

Both techniques slow or even halt crack progression and prevent new ones as long as the underlying issues are not too severe.

Final Thoughts

Property owners must maintain structural integrity by understanding brickwork cracks, knowing when to get professional help, taking preventive actions, and addressing issues promptly. Regular maintenance preserves property value and ensures safety. Proactive measures and vigilance are crucial; consult a foundation repair specialist if needed.

If you’re worried about cracks in your home’s brick wall and you live in Southern California, Arizona, or Nevada, contact us today to schedule an evaluation and receive an estimate.

WRITTEN BY
Brian is one of the Co-Founders of Dalinghaus Construction. He has been in the foundation repair industry since 2005. During his career, he has been associated with helping over 4,000 homes and structures throughout California and Arizona.

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