Many homeowners incorporate brick and masonry structures on their property because they are beautiful, durable, and long-lasting. However, even the most well-crafted brick structure will need repair as it ages, whether that’s a chimney, porch, walkway, or retaining wall. Exposure to the elements causes brick and mortar to degrade over time, which is why it’s so important to stay on top of maintenance and upkeep.
It’s also important to be aware of and catch the early warning signs before they worsen and turn into costly repairs. Here are some common signs you need masonry repair in Metro Detroit.
Cracks Go Beyond the Cosmetic
An obvious and common sign of masonry distress, a crack can signal a deeper issue. It depends on what it looks like. While hairline cracks in mortar often result from natural settling, deep or wide cracks could indicate burgeoning structural issues.
Here are the types to look out for:
- Vertical or Step Cracks: These take on a stair-step pattern, appearing along the mortar joints. Foundation shifting or moisture-related movement could be to blame.
- Horizontal Cracks: More serious than hairline cracks, horizontal cracks indicate pressure behind a wall due to soil expansion or foundation failure.
- Cracks Around Doors or Windows: The wall may be shifting or the lintels may be failing. These form the supporting metal or stone above openings.
Be aware of any cracks that appear suddenly, grow bigger with time, or are wide enough to hold a coin. Call a masonry professional in Wayne County if you spot these concerning signs.
Bowed or Bulging Bricks
A bowed or bulging brick wall occurs when water seeps behind the brick façade and freezes in cold weather. It can be caused by:
- Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Water that is trapped behind the brick freezes and expands, pushing the brick outward.
- Poor Drainage or Leaks: Pressure behind the wall can increase with water infiltration from damaged gutters or flashing.
Mortar Deterioration
Mortar is what holds bricks and stones together, but it can crumble, crack, or wash away over time when exposed to many seasons of rain. Here are some signs that your mortar may be failing:
- Water Seepage Through Walls
- Loose or Missing Mortar Joints
- Crumbly or Powdery Texture
Failing mortar weakens the entire structure, and will eventually require tuckpointing. This involves removing damaged mortar and replacing it with fresh material to extend the life of your brick work.
Chimney Issues
Chimneys can deteriorate with constant exposure to heat, weather, and temperature fluctuations. Here are some signs your chimney needs masonry repair:
- Spalling Bricks: Shedding surface flakes or brick chunks
- Cracked or Missing Crown: Can welcome inwater
- Efflorescence: White, chalky deposits signal water infiltration
Chimney issues can become fire hazards or result in major water damage in the home if ignored.
Masonry issues like you see above often start off so small, you may not realize there’s a problem. However, with time, they worsen and can result in serious structural damage. That’s why it’s important to stay on top of your brickwork and call in a masonry contractor in Wayne County at the first sign of trouble.
Contact It’s The Brick Guys
If you have spotted the above issues on your property, contact us today for a free quote and consultation on masonry repair in Metro Detroit.
