Cracked Brick Walls: What It Means In Tennessee & Alabama
Brick walls are built for strength, but they’re not immune to damage over time. If you’ve noticed a cracked brick wall around your home, it’s natural to wonder if it’s just cosmetic — or a sign of deeper foundation issues. Both of these scenarios are possible, but The Crack Guys helps homeowners across Alabama and Tennessee understand the meaning behind their wall cracks.
Here’s what you need to know about the different types of cracks in brick walls and what they signal for your home’s foundation.
Types Of Cracks In Brick Walls
The pattern, location and size of a crack all offer important clues about the condition of your home’s foundation. Let’s break down some of the most common cracks in brick walls and what they might be telling you.
Stair-Step Cracks In Walls
One of the most recognizable crack patterns is the stair-step crack. These cracks travel along the mortar joints in a zig-zag, stair-like pattern.
Stair-step cracks are often a sign of differential foundation settlement, meaning one part of the foundation sinks faster than another. Small cracks can sometimes be monitored, but wider stair-step cracks — especially those larger than 1/4 inch — usually indicate a shift that needs professional attention.
Horizontal Wall Cracks
A horizontal crack can suggest serious structural problems, often caused by outside pressure pushing against your foundation. Soil expansion after heavy rain or poor exterior drainage are common culprits. Horizontal cracks almost always require immediate professional evaluation because they can point to bowing walls, which threaten your home’s stability.
Vertical Cracks In Brick Wall
Vertical cracks are a common result of normal settling in newer homes or minor soil movement over time. However, if the crack is wider at the top or bottom, it could signal uneven property settlement. If you notice the crack is shifting, growing or new cracks are forming nearby, it’s time to schedule a foundation inspection.
Diagonal Wall Cracks
Diagonal cracks often run from the corners of windows or doors at an angle. These cracks frequently result from foundation settlement or shifts in soil moisture content. They can indicate structural movement, especially if accompanied by sticking doors or windows. Diagonal cracks that grow longer or wider over time need professional evaluation to prevent further damage.
Why A Cracked Brick Wall Matters
No matter the type, a cracked brick wall is a symptom that shouldn’t be ignored. Small cracks can worsen over time. What begins as a cosmetic concern can quickly turn into an expensive foundation repair if left unaddressed.
What Causes Cracks In Brick Walls?
Several factors can contribute to different types of cracks in brick walls:
- Foundation settlement: Natural property settlement over time can cause cracks in brick walls.
- Changing soil conditions: Expansive clay soils, common across much of Alabama and Tennessee, swell with moisture and shrink during droughts. This creates movement under homes.
- Water damage: Poor drainage and heavy rains can lead to hydrostatic pressure against foundation walls, causing horizontal cracks.
- Poor construction: Low-quality materials during the original build can make walls more prone to cracking.
- Harsh weather conditions: Humidity, intense heat and flooding can weaken and damage brick structures.
- Tree root growth: Trees that are planted too close to your property can grow roots beneath your foundation.
Understanding the cause of the damage is just as important as repairing the visible cracks.Several factors can contribute to different types of cracks in brick walls:
When To Call The Crack Guys For Cracked Brick Walls
So, when should you worry about a cracked brick wall? Here’s a quick checklist:
— Cracks are wider than 1/4 inch
— Cracks are growing or spreading
— Walls are bulging or bowing outward
— You notice doors or windows sticking nearby
— You see multiple types of cracks developing
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to contact a trusted foundation repair professional from The Cracks Guys. We have years of experience assessing cracks and identifying the underlying causes —and we’re committed to providing solutions that protect your home for years to come.
Trust The Crack Guys For Brick Wall And Foundation Solutions
At The Crack Guys, we know that seeing a crack in your brickwork can cause concern. Our team serves homeowners across Alabama and Tennessee with expert inspections, honest assessments and dependable repairs.
If you’ve spotted a cracked brick wall, don’t wait for the damage to worsen. Contact us today to schedule a free evaluation and start protecting your property!
