Brick walls are unyielding, durable, and ageless, but over time, the elements, settlement, or old mortar can all cause cracking in brick walls. The result is an unsightly property, and if left unaddressed, it can lead to water intrusion and structural damage.
Brick Pointing NYC can help with your brick waterproofing, brick wall repair, or brick wall repointing needs, leaving your brickwork with renewed strength and beauty. In this article, we will discuss how to patch cracks in brick walls, and if you hire a tradesman or professional brickwork repair service, it will last for years to come.
Why Do Brick Walls Crack?
Brick walls can become cracked for many reasons. Settling foundations, thermal expansion, moisture damage, and poor construction methods are all common causes of cracks. Most older buildings in New York City experience the additional stress from bad weather and other environmental conditions.
If you notice cracks, whether they are small or large, your wall needs professional help. If the cracks are left unattended, they could cause serious structural issues over time.
Types of Brick Wall Cracks
By identifying the type of crack, you can find the best solution.
- Hairline cracks: These types of cracks are fine and cosmetic, and typically are caused by the movement of the wall and are quite common.
- Vertical cracks: These types of cracks are usually related to structural stress and settlement of the foundation.
- Horizontal cracks: Usually signify that there are potential foundation or water pressure issues.
- Step cracks: Follow the mortar joints, which can indicate shifting or settling.
At Brick Pointing NYC, we will assess the wall to identify the type of crack and what may have caused it, before any repairs. (The Spruce)
How to Repair Cracks in Brick Walls – Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Inspect the Damage
The first step involves determining the size, place, and cause of the crack. Professionals are going to determine if any movement, moisture, or decayed joints caused the crack. This step is important for determining the best method in the process in a way that will give you the most effective long-lived repair.
Step 2. Clean the Area
Before doing repairs, cleaning the cracked area of loose mortar, dust, dirt, etc., is an important step to consider. A clean area to work from will help improve the chance of a good bond of new mortar and adhesion, and separation of mortar for the future.
Step 3. Mix the Mortar
A mortar mix matching color will be made to ensure that the mixed mortar color and texture will blend well with the existing brickwork. For example, Brick Pointing NYC uses high-quality mortar that will add strength to stone, improve durability, and improve the quality of the repairs.
Step 4. Fill the Crack
Then the mortar will be pushed down into the crack with a pointing trowel. With larger cracks, multiple layers will be pushed down into the crack.
Step 5. Smooth to finish
After filling the crack, it will then be smoothed to appear as the rest of the area. The moment of action will be that all the extravagance will be taken away and the wall will be cured (to dry). This makes sure that the area appears smooth and retains well.
Step 6. Seal the Wall
An additional protective layer against moisture in the event of a risk could be added using a waterproof sealant. This will also give additional accidental barriers to water infiltration and the life span of the wall.
Why Choose Brick Pointing NYC for Brick Wall Crack Repair
At Brick Pointing NYC, we combine both old and new techniques to have astounding results. Our group is aware of the exact issues surrounding New York City buildings, including historic brownstones and modern buildings.
We don’t simply fix the cracks. We reinstate the integrity of the whole wall system both aesthetically and structurally. You can be assured that employment of professionals will offer long-term repair, which will last many years without cracking or color differences.
Professional Brick Repair and Repointing Services in NYC
Professional Brick Repair and Restoration Services in New York City. Our company specializes in brick repointing and tuckpointing, brick replacement, and waterproofing. Our professionals can take on work of all sizes, from a small crack to a complete structural failure, safely and efficiently. Our goal is to preserve the asset while maintaining the historic integrity of the property.
Prevent Future Brick Wall Cracking
The best way to stop cracking is to preserve. Keeping your routine checks and maintenance up to date allows you the chance to find problems that need addressing. One of the best ways to avoid excessive rainwater is to keep your gutters free from debris. It also pays to minimize the settling of your base.
Repointing old mortar every 20 to 25 years will also help to prevent cracking. Brick Pointing NYC provides periodic maintenance service to help protect the integrity of your brickwork while keeping it as beautiful as it was meant to be.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, repairing cracks in brick walls protects the integrity of your property, and ultimately, its aesthetic charm. If left alone, small cracks can lead to large structural problems. You can have peace of mind when the professionals at Brick Pointing NYC are completing the repair of your brickwork, knowing it is done with craftsmanship built to last.
We will return your brick to its former glory with quality materials and tested techniques. You can depend on us to rejuvenate your brick and protect your home for a long time.
FAQs
What causes cracks to appear in brick walls?
Brick wall cracks can be caused by settling foundations, moisture deterioration, or temperature changes. In time, these things will weaken the mortar, and the cracks will begin to enlarge visibly.
Can I fill cracks in my brick wall on my own?
You may be able to fill small hairline cracks with mortar repair kits, but for larger cracks and cracks that have begun spreading, we recommend you hire a professional to ensure you do not have larger structural issues.
How much will it cost for brick wall crack repair in NYC?
The cost depends on how badly damaged the wall is and also the condition of the wall to begin with. At Brick Pointing NYC, we give free estimates, and we price all of our brick repairs fairly and competitively.
How quickly can I expect my brick wall cracks to be repaired?
Little cracks in the brick wall may take a few hours, while larger wall repairs may take one to two days for completion, the drying time will be a factor as well.
Once repaired, how long will the cracks stay repaired?
If repaired appropriately with quality mortar and sealant, most cracks are going to stay fixed for years if maintenance is performed to keep them from coming back.
