Cracks In Your Brick House – Now What

Living in the Greater Houston area offers many benefits, from vibrant neighborhoods to a warm climate. However, homeowners also face unique challenges, particularly when it comes to maintaining their homes. One common concern is cracks in brickwork, which can be unsettling when they appear. Not every crack signals severe structural issues, but understanding what they might mean and what steps to take can help prevent costly repairs down the road. Here’s a guide on what you should know about cracks in your brick house and how to handle them.

Why Do Cracks Appear in Brick?

Before exploring solutions, it’s essential to understand why cracks appear. Cracks can develop due to several factors, especially in the Houston area, where the soil conditions and climate significantly impact home structures.

1. Soil Shifting and Settling: Houston is known for its expansive clay soil, which swells when wet and contracts when dry. This natural movement can lead to shifts in your home’s foundation, causing the bricks to crack. It’s especially common in areas that have experienced heavy rainfall, followed by periods of drought.
2. Temperature Fluctuations: Houston’s climate can go from hot and humid summers to cold snaps in the winter. These temperature changes can make materials expand and contract, placing stress on the brick and mortar of your home.
3. Poor Drainage: Excess water around your foundation can lead to soil movement and settling, making cracks more likely. Water pooling around your house might signal an inadequate drainage system, which should be addressed as part of any long-term solution.
4. Foundation Issues: Cracks in brick can sometimes indicate foundation problems. As the foundation shifts, it exerts pressure on the brick walls, causing them to crack or bulge.
5. Age of the House: Over time, every home experiences natural wear and tear. Older homes may be more susceptible to cracks due to the materials weakening or deteriorating over the years.

Types of Brick Cracks and What They Mean

Not all cracks are the same. Identifying the type of crack can give you clues about its potential severity:

1. Hairline Cracks: These are tiny cracks, usually less than 1/8 of an inch wide. Often, they’re due to minor settling or thermal expansion and aren’t a cause for immediate concern. However, if they grow wider over time, it’s a good idea to get them checked.
2. Vertical Cracks: These cracks are generally less alarming, as they’re often a result of natural settling. While they may not signal severe structural issues, it’s still essential to monitor them and make repairs as needed to prevent water intrusion.
3. Horizontal Cracks: Horizontal cracks are often more serious and may indicate foundation issues. These cracks are usually caused by significant soil movement or pressure against the foundation, especially if they appear along the mortar line.
4. Stair-Step Cracks: These cracks follow the mortar joints in a zigzag pattern and are common in areas with shifting soil. They can be a sign of foundation issues, particularly if they’re wide or growing.
5. Bulging or Bowing Cracks: When bricks appear to bulge or bow outward, it’s a sign that pressure is being exerted from behind the wall. This could be due to foundation movement or moisture issues within the wall and should be addressed promptly.

Steps to Take When You See Cracks in Your Brick Home

If you’ve noticed cracks in your brick walls, here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do next:

1. Monitor the Cracks: Keep an eye on the size and length of the cracks over a few months. Use a ruler to measure them and note any changes. If they grow significantly, it might indicate an underlying issue with your foundation that needs attention.
2. Check for Drainage Issues: Look around your home for signs of poor drainage, such as pooling water or downspouts that don’t direct water far from your foundation. Improving drainage can help stabilize the soil around your foundation, reducing movement.
3. Schedule a Foundation Inspection: For larger or growing cracks, especially horizontal or stair-step cracks, consider having a professional foundation inspection by us. We offer free inspections, and we can help you determine if foundation repairs are necessary.
4. Repair the Cracks: Small cracks can often be repaired with mortar or sealant to prevent water intrusion, which could worsen the issue. For larger cracks, consider hiring a masonry expert who can ensure the repairs are structurally sound.
5. Consult a Structural Engineer: If you’re concerned about significant foundation movement or bulging walls, consult a structural engineer. They can assess the full extent of any structural damage and recommend the appropriate course of action.

Preventing Future Cracks in Your Houston Home’s Foundation

While it’s challenging to prevent cracks entirely, especially in Houston’s environment, you can take steps to reduce the risk:

• Maintain Consistent Moisture Levels: During dry spells, consider using soaker hoses to keep the soil around your foundation from drying out and shrinking too much.
• Improve Drainage: Make sure water is directed away from your foundation through gutters, downspouts, and proper grading.
• Inspect Your Home Regularly: Keep an eye on potential problem areas, like windows and doors, which can shift if the foundation moves.

By understanding the causes of cracks and taking proactive steps, homeowners in the Houston area can protect their investment and avoid costly repairs. If you’re in the Greater Houston area and notice cracks in your brickwork, don’t panic—most can be repaired, and taking early action is key to maintaining your home’s stability and value.