Cracked Bricks
Cracked bricks are more than just a cosmetic issue; they indicate something is wrong with the base of your home. At Basement Authority of West Virginia, we recognize the stress that foundation problems can cause for homeowners.
As homeowners ourselves, we are committed to delivering quick, efficient, and custom-tailored foundation repair solutions to every homeowner in West Virginia.
What are Cracked Bricks?
Cracks in exterior bricks frequently appear in a stair-step pattern along the mortar lines between each brick. These can vary from fine lines to large gaps or deteriorating mortar. They’re not just an issue of aesthetics—they’re a sign that your home’s foundation is compromised.
What Causes Brick Cracks?
The cause of brick cracks stems from stress applied to your home’s foundation. As your foundation settles or shifts, this places tension on the exterior brick walls, leading to cracking. Several core issues contribute to cracked brick walls:
- Foundation Settlement – When the ground under your foundation is damaged or eroded, it disturbs the balance of your home’s structure. This puts stress on brick walls and comes up more often in troublesome soil types like expansive clay.
- Tree Roots – Intrusive tree roots that grow beneath your foundation can push aside bricks and mortar, expanding the soil and infiltrating weak spots.
- Soil Issues – Swelling soil under your home can shift, affecting foundation stability and, in turn, putting stress on brick walls.
Can You Fix Cracked Bricks?
Yes, cracked bricks can be repaired. However, simply re-mortaring the lines won’t solve the core problem. While there are temporary fillers and mortar repair kits available at your local stores, these are not long-term solutions.
Since the underlying issue lies in your foundation, the cracks will continue to spread until this area is stabilized. Solving the root causes is the best course of action, and our solutions are designed to do just that.
Keep in mind, DIY repairs to your home’s structure could have unintended consequences that cause further damage like uneven floors or stuck doors and windows. For industry-leading assistance, consult the experts at Basement Authority of West Virginia.
How to Fix Cracked Bricks
With Basement Authority of West Virginia, you receive customized solutions like helical piers and push piers. These are installed below the foundation and twist into the ground until reaching stable soil or bedrock, lifting and stabilizing any settling foundation.
Other treatments that address the root issues of foundation damage include:
- Wall Anchors – Steel anchors embedded in the foundation walls and secured to solid soil outside help resist inward bowing and cracking.
- Carbon Fiber Wall Reinforcement – We adhere carbon fiber straps to bowing basement walls using high-grade epoxy. This superior tensile strength restores stability to your brick walls.
Why Address Brick Cracks Now?
Ignoring minor brick cracks can allow the root problems to worsen over time. Here’s why you should tackle the issue promptly:
- Avoid More Costly Damage – Early foundation repairs reduce future damage and costs.
- Prevent Moisture Intrusion – Cracks create an entry point for water into your basement or crawl space, fostering mold growth and wood decay.
- Restore Home Value – Broken and crumbling brick walls diminish your home’s appeal to prospective buyers. Structural repairs can increase property value.
Contact Basement Authority of West Virginia for Cracked Brick Repairs
If cracked bricks are emerging on your home’s exterior, reach out to Basement Authority of West Virginia today. We offer complimentary inspections to pinpoint underlying issues and same-day estimates for repairs.
Our skilled technicians will equip you with solutions to permanently mend foundation damage and stabilize your brick walls. If you’re looking to make your home stable, contact us now!
FAQs
Horizontal cracks often signify wall bowing due to excess soil pressure or foundation settling. They indicate a need for structural repairs.
Look closely at brick veneers, basement walls, and chimneys. Cracks can initially appear in unnoticed locations.
Merely redoing the mortar lines won’t halt further cracking. The foundational issues must be tackled first, and then bricks can be re-mortared.
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Our Locations
132 Rocky Step Rd.,
Scott Depot, WV 25560