Common types of brick wall problems and how to fix them

Mortar Deterioration

Mortar Deterioration is a common brick wall problem. Older buildings are especially susceptible to this problem due to the effects of weathering and the natural aging process. Excessive moisture is the most common cause of mortar deterioration, as it can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can weaken the mortar and cause it to crumble.

Mortar deterioration can be a serious problem, as it can cause the bricks to become loose and eventually fall out of the wall. If you notice any signs of mortar damage, it’s important to have a professional inspect the wall and determine the best method to repair. In most cases, the damage may be minor and can be repaired with some simple patching and repair work.

There are two solutions to fix the mortar issue, tuckpointing and repointing. However, the best way is to remove the old mortar and replace it with new mortar. This is called repointing. It involves removing the old mortar from between the bricks or stones and then replacing it with new mortar. This process is relatively straightforward, but it does require some time and effort.

Brick Deterioration

Brick deterioration is another common brick wall problem. Moisture, freezing, and structure settling are the most common causes of brick deterioration.

Brick walls are exposed to the elements on all sides, so they are susceptible to moisture damage. Moisture can enter the brick through cracks and openings in the mortar or through the pores in the brick itself. Once moisture gets into the brick, it can freeze and expand, causing the brick to crack and crumble. Here are some signs of brick deterioration you should always check:

Cracking

Cracks are one of the most common signs of brick deterioration. They can occur for a variety of reasons, including settlement, thermal expansion and contraction, and even freeze-thaw cycles. Further we can classify these cracks as:

Vertical Cracks

They are mostly caused by the thermal expansion of the bricks. The expansion is caused by the heat of the sun during the day and the cold of the night. The bricks expand and contract as the temperature changes, which can cause the bricks to crack.

Horizontal Cracks

Horizontal cracks in your brick wall can be a sign of foundation movement. This can happen when the soil around your home’s foundation settles or erodes. This can cause your foundation to shift and can cause cracks in your brick wall.

Diagonal Cracks

When your home has diagonal cracks in the brick walls, it is likely due to differential foundation settlement. This is when one part of the foundation settles more than another, causing the walls to crack.

Spalling

Spalling is another common sign of brick deterioration. It occurs when the outer layer of the brick starts to flake off. This can be caused by a number of factors, including improper installation, weathering, and even chemical reactions.

If you notice that your brick walls are starting to show signs of deterioration, it’s important to have them inspected by a professional. They will identify the damaged bricks by looking for any cracks, chips, or missing pieces. Once the damage is identified, the best way to fix it can be determined. In most cases, the professional may be able to simply replace the damaged bricks.

Bowing Brick Wall

Water damage is one of the most common causes of bowing brick walls. When water seeps into the brick, it can cause the brick to expand and eventually bow out. This is most common in older homes where the bricks are not as dense as they are today. Bowing can also be caused by a lack of maintenance. If the bricks are not properly sealed, they can absorb water and start to bow out. Some other contributing factors in bowing walls are:

Soil Erosion

Over time, the soil around your foundation can erode away, leaving the foundation unprotected. This can cause the foundation to settle and the brick wall to bow.

Poor Drainage

If the drainage around your foundation is poor, it can allow water to seep into the foundation and cause the soil to expand. This can also cause the foundation to settle and the brick wall to bow.

Tree Roots

Trees can be a beautiful addition to your property, but their roots can also cause problems. If the roots of a tree are growing too close to your foundation, they can put pressure on the foundation and cause the brick wall to bow.

Earthquake Damage

If your home is located in an area that is prone to earthquakes, the shaking can damage the foundation and cause the brick wall to bow.

Poor Construction

If your home was not built properly, it can lead to a number of problems, including a bowed brick wall.

Fortunately, there are a few different ways to fix bowing brick walls. The best course of action will depend on the extent of the damage and the cause of the problem. Here are a few of the most common ways to fix bowing brick walls:

Consult with a Foundation Repair Contractor

If you’re not sure what’s causing your brick walls to bow, it’s a good idea to consult with a foundation repair contractor. They’ll be able to assess the damage and recommend the relevant method to fix the issue.

Install Wall Anchors

If the problem is due to hydrostatic pressure, installing wall anchors can be a great way to fix bowing brick walls. Wall anchors work by transferring the weight of the wall to the ground, which helps to stabilize the wall. This is usually a fairly straightforward process, but it’s always best to consult with a professional before proceeding.

Waterproof the Wall

If the problem is due to expansive soils, waterproofing the wall can be an effective solution. This will help to prevent water from seeping into the soil and causing the wall to bow. Waterproofing can be done yourself, but it’s always best to consult with a professional before proceeding.

Replace the Wall

In some cases, the only way to fix bowing brick walls is to replace the entire wall. This is usually only necessary if the damage is extensive or if the cause of the problem is unknown. Replacing a wall is a big job, so hire a professional bricklayer to rebuild the wall.

Efflorescence

Efflorescence is a white salt deposit that can form on brick walls due to moisture. While efflorescence is not harmful, it can be unsightly. If left untreated, efflorescence can lead to the deterioration of the brick wall.

The best method to remove efflorescence is to use a solution of water and vinegar. This solution will dissolve the salt deposits. Once the salt deposits are dissolved, they can be washed away with a hose. However, you can hire professional pressure washer services for the best results.