Small cracks in the exterior walls are a common occurrence. These small cracks usually result from exposure to weather elements, particularly those in cold climates. Although these cracks do not compromise the structural strength of a brick building, they can increase in size and severity over time. Therefore, the best solution is to cover these cracks to prevent them from worsening. However, there are other ways to repair exterior brick problems. Read on to learn more about your options.
Signs of foundation failure
When the foundation of your home experiences settlement, bricks will begin to crack. These cracks usually appear in the mortar and will give your home the appearance of stair-steps. If you notice cracks in the mortar, you need to contact a foundation repair company immediately. Cracked brick is an early warning sign of foundation damage. This is due to the weak soil beneath your foundation. Cracked bricks may also indicate foundation movement and damage.
If you have noticed cracks in the bricks of your house, you should consult a foundation repair professional to inspect the problem. Cracked brick may also indicate that your house is tilting to one side or has cracks in the basement. The foundation can break apart, allowing groundwater to enter the home. This can cause a house to flood. The best way to deal with cracked bricks is to get a professional foundation repair company to assess the damage.
Other warning signs of foundation failure include cracks in drywall, cracked plaster, and porches or chimneys that separate from the building. Cracks in the brick walls can also result in cracks in drywall and wallpaper. The cracks in the foundation may cause water to seep through the basement walls, which can cause water damage. You can get cracks filled by injecting polyurethane grout.
Repair options
Whether your brick is settling and causing cracks or it’s a sign of structural damage, there are several different repair options available. Some bricks can be repaired, while others need to be replaced. Cracked bricks often indicate structural damage, and cracks in the walls are often an indication of this. Regardless of what the cause, cracking bricks can be repaired and restored to almost-new condition.
First, cracks in exterior walls are repaired with a mortar mixture. A PVA bonding agent helps the mortar stick to the bricks and provides some elasticity. This is important since all buildings move slightly. It is also important to moisten the damaged masonry so that the mortar will penetrate it properly. A special type of fluid, called a joint raker, can also be used. This type of fluid helps protect the brick wall while still allowing it to breathe.
Cracks in stair-step bricks are not as serious as those in horizontal brick walls. However, they can be a sign of a foundation problem, particularly if they are accompanied by other problems, such as uneven floors or sticking doors. Although they are cosmetic, small brick cracks are usually a result of time and weather. As such, these cracks are not as urgent as those on other types of brick walls.
Signs to look for
You may not have realized that your Denver home is in need of a crack repair, but there are some common signs to look for. A cracked brick can signal many problems. This issue is not limited to bricks, however. If you notice cracked walls, deformed door frames, or cracked ceiling sheetrock, these problems could be a sign of structural damage. It could also indicate problems with your home’s foundation.
The first cracking brick sign is the appearance of a crack. It could be caused by a variety of causes, including damage that was inadvertent or ongoing. Hydrostatic pressure can cause a crack to appear, as can invading tree roots. Mature tree roots can exert immense pressure on bricks, so it is best to get the problem resolved as soon as possible. Cracks that appear on the surface of the brick should be inspected by a professional.
In addition to cracking bricks, cracks can be signs of other problems with your home’s foundation. If left untreated, they can lead to leaning, bowing walls, and uneven flooring. While some repairs may be relatively easy, other issues may arise. If your property is experiencing structural problems, you should seek a professional repair company immediately. These problems can lead to secondary and tertiary damage, so it’s best to get a professional inspection to make sure that your home is not in danger.