Your Guide To Understanding Cracked Brick Concerns
No homeowner wants to see cracks in their brick walls. After all, it’s unsettling and can raise immediate concerns about the stability and safety of your home. You might wonder — Is this just cosmetic, or is it a sign of a bigger issue? What if it leads to costly repairs or even structural damage?
These are valid fears, and understanding the cause of cracks can save you from headaches down the road. In this blog, we’ll break down what different cracks might mean, how they can form and the benefits of opting for professional repairs.
What Do Cracked Bricks Mean for Your Home?
Cracked bricks can be more than just an eyesore — they may signal underlying issues that, if left unaddressed, could compromise your home’s structural integrity. While some cracks are cosmetic, others point to significant foundation problems that need immediate attention.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of cracks and what they could mean:
- Vertical Cracks — These typically occur due to foundation settlement or natural shifts in the ground. While not always an immediate threat, they can worsen if the underlying foundation issues continue to develop. It’s important to monitor these cracks for signs of expansion.
- Horizontal Cracks — These cracks can indicate serious structural issues and are more concerning because they can lead to bowed walls and long-term damage. Immediate intervention is recommended to prevent further problems.
- Stair-Step Cracks — This type of crack follows the mortar lines in a zigzag pattern, typically caused by uneven settling of the foundation. These cracks can vary in severity depending on how deep or wide they are, and it’s important to have a professional assess them.
In any case, cracked bricks should not be ignored as ignoring them may even lead to further damage to your home. Plus, water, insects and rodents can utilize these cracks to sneak their way into your house and make it their home too!
What Causes Brick To Crack?
Brick can crack for a few reasons, but it often means bad news for your home.
Noting the different causes is important, as some situations can be prevented when you have the right knowledge. And even though you can’t prevent everything, understanding the factors that lead to cracks will help you know when to inspect your home for trouble.
Natural Elements: Beware Of Weather And Tree Roots
Extreme weather conditions like high humidity, scorching heat, earthquakes and floods can gradually weaken and damage brick structures. In addition, trees planted too close to the home may have roots that grow underneath the foundation, causing shifts in the soil.
When the ground becomes uneven, it can result in noticeable cracks along the brick exterior, compromising the integrity of your home over time.
Water Damage: Act Fast Against Poor Drainage And Hidden Leaks
Water is one of the most common culprits behind brick damage. If water isn’t properly drained away from your home — whether due to clogged gutters, insufficient waterproofing or a lack of drainage systems like sump pumps and French drains — it can lead to cracks in the brick.
Even less obvious sources like leaky pipes can cause moisture to build up, slowly eroding the brick. Regular inspections can help you detect early signs of water-related cracks before they worsen.
Accidents And Construction: Understanding Their Direct And Indirect Impact
Bricks can crack due to direct impacts, such as accidental damage from heavy objects or forceful hits to the structure. However, even construction happening near your home can cause cracks. Heavy machinery generates vibrations that shake the ground, which can indirectly disturb the foundation and lead to cracking.
Natural Breakage: The Risk Of Aging Materials
Even without outside forces acting on it, brick can crack naturally over time. As your home settles and ages, the brick may develop cracks simply because it is bearing the weight of the structure. While this type of crack might not be immediately alarming, it’s still important to monitor any changes, as natural wear can lead to bigger issues if left unchecked.
Our Professionals Are Here To Help
While you might be tempted to tackle crack repairs on your own, it’s usually best to leave it to the professionals. The qualified experts from The Crack Guys can not only repair the crack but also identify and address the root cause.
Simply patching the surface won’t fix the underlying issue, and if a foundation problem is involved, it could lead to bigger concerns like bowing walls or uneven floors. A thorough inspection and proper repair from our team can prevent future damage and protect the stability of your home.
Schedule Your Service With The Crack Guys
At The Crack Guys, we don’t just fix cracks — we solve the problem at its source. Our team of experienced foundation professionals knows how to evaluate the extent of damage and provide a long-lasting solution.
We understand that your home is your most valuable asset, and we’re committed to ensuring its stability and safety. Let us take the worry off your shoulders and restore your home’s strength.
