Wondering when you should be worried about cracks in brick? If so, don’t hit that back button because you’ve landed on the right page. In this article, we’ll review whether brick cracks are normal, why brick walls crack, when you should worry about cracks in brick, and more.
Are Bricks Cracks Normal?
No, brick cracks are not normal. They often signify an underlying foundation issue that requires urgent attention. The building’s structural integrity could be threatened if the problem isn’t promptly addressed. Brick cracks can also compromise the building’s aesthetics, reducing its value. Therefore, it’s imperative to address and repair brick cracks promptly, using appropriate techniques and materials.
Why Do Brick Walls Crack?
Brick walls crack for various reasons, including the following:
Differential foundation settlement
One common reason brick walls crack is foundation movement leading to differential settlement or when a foundation settles into the ground unevenly. Differential settlement stresses a foundation and can lead to severe structural damage if it isn’t repaired. The best way to describe differential settlement is via an illustration:
Differential settlement can occur for various reasons, including expansive soil, erosion-prone soil, improper grading, and damage caused by nearby tree roots. When the foundation moves because of differential settlement, the brick wall on top of it can crack.
Hydrostatic pressure
Excess moisture in the soil outside a foundation wall that can’t drain off can cause hydrostatic pressure to build up and push against the foundation (i.e., basement) wall. If the pressure isn’t relieved via a good drainage system, the wall could eventually bow inward and even crack horizontally.
If you live in an area prone to heavy rainfall or flooding, it’s essential to have a good drainage system in place and to inspect your foundation walls regularly for signs of damage. If you notice any cracks or bulges, contact an experienced foundation repair contractor right away.
Thermal expansion
Bricks are porous, and as they absorb moisture, they will expand. When they release moisture, they contract. This can sometimes cause vertical cracks in brick. While these cracks usually aren’t structurally significant, they should still be inspected by a professional.
When Should I Be Worried About Cracks in Brick?
While not all cracks are cause for concern, there are certain instances where one should be cautious. These include the following:
- Cracks wider at the top than at the bottom
- Stair step-shaped cracks
- Horizontal cracks with or without bowing
- Cracks wider than 1/8 inch
All of the above could indicate serious structural problems caused by differential settlement or hydrostatic pressure.
It’s essential to address these cracks promptly to ensure the building’s stability and safety. Delaying repairs can lead to more significant damage, resulting in a more costly repair.
It’s important to note that not all cracks in brick should cause you to lose sleep. Hairline cracks in brick or mortar are common and often appear due to normal building settling or seasonal temperature changes. These types of cracks are usually not dangerous and don’t pose a threat to the home’s structural integrity. However, monitoring hairline cracks over time is essential to ensure they’re not getting bigger. If they are, it’s time to call a professional and ask for an inspection.
What Should I Do if I See Brick Cracks?
The appearance of cracks is often an indication of a foundation problem. Therefore, if you see brick cracks in your home, look around for other signs of a foundation problem. These include the following:
- Cracks in floors and ceilings – You might see a crack that runs across the ceiling and down a wall. Floor cracks limited to one or two tiles were probably caused when something fell on the floor. However, a wall-to-wall floor crack is a sign of a foundation problem.
- Ceilings and floors that aren’t in contact with the wall
- Torn or wrinkled wallpaper – This could indicate the wall behind the wallpaper is cracked.
- Doors and windows that no longer open and close properly
- Chimneys or porches that are leaning away from the house
If you see any of the above – or anything else suspicious – call a foundation repair contractor to schedule a thorough evaluation of the property. They can provide an expert analysis of the situation and recommend the best course of action.
When choosing a foundation repair contractor, it’s essential to do due diligence and select a reputable and experienced professional. Look for contractors who are licensed, insured, and certified. Reading reviews and asking for referrals from friends and family is also a good idea.
How Are Cracks in Brick Repaired?
Identifying the cause of the crack is the first step in determining the appropriate repair solution.
Cracks caused by differential settlement
For brick cracks caused by differential foundation settlement, the repair solution will likely involve underpinning, a process where deep foundation elements – push, helical, slab piers – are installed to provide additional support. After the piers are in place, the building is slowly raised as much as possible without causing damage. In many cases, this closes the cracks.
Cracks caused by hydrostatic pressure
If the crack is caused by hydrostatic pressure pushing against the foundation wall, a common repair solution is carbon fiber straps. These stabilize the foundation wall and prevent further inward movement and cracking.
If you’re wondering whether you should be worried about cracks in brick in your home, contact AMC911 today to schedule an evaluation and receive a repair estimate.
