What Causes Bowing Brick Wall and How to Fix it?

Causes of Bowing Brick Walls

A bowing wall is one that has curved or bowed outward and can be caused by several different factors.

Poor Construction Techniques

Poor construction techniques are one of the most common causes of bulging walls, as inadequate support or reinforcement can lead to stress on the wall, which then causes it to bow. In many cases, a damaged wall is caused by using low-grade bricks and cement that do not have the proper compressive strength to resist the forces acting on it over time. In addition, inadequate footings or foundation support, as well as inappropriate design and installation practices, can lead to bulging walls.

Water Damage

Another major cause of bulging brick walls is water seeping and moisture, which can cause significant damage if left untreated. Water seeping occurs when a crack or gap in the wall allows water to enter the bricks and cement. This water can then freeze in colder temperatures, forcing the cracks wider or loosening the mortar between bricks—this is called frost heaving. Moisture buildup inside the wall, such as from poor ventilation or plumbing leaks, can also result in bulging walls by weakening the cement or causing mold on brick surfaces, threatening its integrity over time.

Poor Soil Conditions

Naturally shifting or settling soil is one of the primary causes of bowing masonry walls. As weather changes cause the ground to contract and expand, this movement puts pressure on the foundation and can cause cracks in the wall as well as bowing outward. This type of damage is especially common in areas that experience extreme temperature variations between summer and winter. Moreover, if your home is built on unstable soils, it can also lead to this problem due to excessive weight being placed on them from within your home’s structure, such as furniture or heavy appliances.

Signs of a Damaged Masonry Wall

If you notice the following signs, you may need a professional brick repair service:

• Deterioration of mortar joints or bricks.
• Bulging or leaning walls.
• Gaps between bricks and mortar joints that are wider than normal.

Methods to Fix a Bowing or Bulging Brick Wall

There are several ways to repair the shearing wall. These may not straighten the walls but will prevent further damage.

Carbon Fiber Straps

Carbon fiber straps are an innovative way to repair bowed brick walls due to their flexible yet strong nature. The straps are designed to wrap around the wall, putting it under tension that helps pull the bricks back into place over time. When properly installed, carbon fiber straps will provide long-lasting support for your wall and prevent future problems from occurring again in the future.

Wall Anchors

Wall anchors are an ideal solution for shearing walls, as they provide a secure, long-term hold that keeps the wall intact and prevents further damage over time. They take the pressure off the wall by distributing it into the yard. These anchors consist of a threaded rod that is inserted into holes drilled into the cement between bricks and secured with nuts at both ends. The tension created by tightening the nuts pulls on either side of the wall, essentially fixing out any bowing while also reinforcing it against further pressure or movement.

Helical Ties

Helical ties may be the best option if your wall has bowed more than 2 inches. Helical ties are steel rods that are twisted and inserted into the mortar joints of a wall to provide extra stability and prevent further bulging. While this method is effective, it is also expensive; however, in many cases, it is the best choice for severely bowed walls.

Hire a Mason to Repair Your Damaged Brick Wall

If you want to restore or repair your damaged brick wall in Fredericton, call Atlantic Brick and Stone. Our experienced masonry team has the skill set to identify the cause of damage and offer the best solution.

We have been serving the Fredericton region for over 15 years. Our team is well-versed in various masonry techniques, from traditional methods to modern technologies. We will work with you to determine how to repair your brick wall without compromising its structural integrity or aesthetic appeal. We also provide advice on more effective ways to protect your brick walls from future damage and deterioration. Contact us today! We’ll be happy to answer any questions about our masonry repair services and help you find the best solution for your needs.