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Cracked Bricks

Cracks in brick walls or chimneys can be concerning. While some may seem minor, they could indicate the need for foundation or masonry repair. A broken brick wall or cracked bricks typically require professional repair. Whether you’re a new or longtime homeowner, JES Foundation Repair addresses these problems with tailored solutions, restoring stability and safety to your home.   

We understand how concerning foundation problems can be for Virginia, Washington, DC, and Maryland homeowners. Our specialized solutions provide effective, customized repair that meets your needs and budget.

Trust JES Foundation Repair to address foundation and brick repair with confidence and care.

 
 

What are Cracked Bricks? 

Cracking in brick walls and chimneys often manifests in stair-step patterns along the mortar lines. These cracks can range from hairline fractures to significant breaks or gaps. Beyond aesthetics, these cracks may signal underlying foundation damage caused by various factors.  

What Causes Brick Cracks? 

Several factors contribute to cracking in brick walls and chimneys. These include:

  • Foundation Settlement: When a foundation settles, it disrupts structural balance, stressing the brick walls. This often occurs due to expansive clay soil.
  • Invasive Tree Roots: Roots beneath the foundation can displace bricks and mortar, creating weak points in the structure. 
  • Weather Exposure: Extreme temperature and moisture changes cause masonry and concrete materials to expand and contract, leading to brick cracks.
  • Soil Fluctuations: Changes in soil moisture can lead to uneven ground movement, putting additional stress on the foundation and brick walls. 
  • Poor Construction: Construction materials can deteriorate over time, leading to cracks.

Can You Fix Cracked Bricks? 

Professional foundation repair methods address damaged areas effectively. JES Foundation Repair has decades of expertise in resolving cracking in brick walls with specialized solutions.

DIY brick and masonry repairs are not recommended, as they provide only a temporary solution. Since the underlying cause often lies in the foundation, neglecting to address it will lead to recurring issues.

How to Fix Cracked Bricks

JES Foundation Repair offers specialized foundation repair solutions, such as helical piers and push piers. These methods stabilize foundations with robust weight transfer support. We address bowing foundation walls and brick wall repair with the following: 

  • Wall Anchors: These steel anchors are embedded in the foundation walls and bolted to stable soil, countering inward bowing and cracking. 
  • Carbon Fiber Wall Reinforcement: This solution involves bonding carbon fiber straps to bowing walls for stabilization.

Why Address Brick Cracks Now? 

Ignoring a cracked brick wall may seem tempting, but it can exacerbate underlying problems. Here’s why prompt action is essential: 

  • Avoid Costly Damage: Prompt repairs minimize further damage, reducing long-term costs. 
  • Prevent Moisture Intrusion: Cracks can cause moisture intrusion and mold growth, wood rot, and structural damage. 
  • Restore Home Value: Repairing structural issues can significantly improve your home’s market value, especially with our transferable warranty.  

Contact JES Foundation Repair for Cracked Brick Repair 

Cracking in brick walls may indicate an underlying foundation problem. Contact JES Foundation Repair to schedule a free inspection and prevent further damage. Our specialized foundation repair solutions resolve and stabilize broken brick walls for long-term support.

Cracked Brick FAQs

The time required to repair cracked bricks can vary depending on the severity of the cracks and the underlying foundation issues. Minor repairs might take just a few days, while more significant issues that require foundational repair can take weeks. JES Foundation Repair offers free consultations to assess your home’s specific needs and provide a repair timeline. 

Cracked bricks can develop in homes of any age. While older homes may be more prone to cracking due to long-term wear and settlement, newer homes can also experience brick damage if the foundation moves or soil conditions are unstable.

Coverage for cracked bricks varies by insurance policy and the underlying cause of the damage. In some cases, if the cracking is due to a sudden, unforeseen event such as an earthquake, your homeowners insurance might cover it. However, gradual damage from soil settlement or tree root intrusion is often considered maintenance and may not be covered. Check with your insurance provider for specifics related to your policy. 

JES Foundation Repair service area map of the Mid-Atlantic region.

Our Locations

Baltimore

8361 Town Center Ct
Nottingham, MD 21236

Fredericksburg

311 Central Rd.
Suite 2-02
Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Hampton Roads & NE NC

2569 Quality Ct
Virginia Beach, VA 23454

Northern VA & DC

7940 Gainsford Ct.
Bristow, VA 20136

Richmond

309 Quarles Rd
Ashland, VA 23005

Southwest Virginia / Roanoke

2033 Cook Dr.
Salem, VA 24153

Western Virginia

456 Old Courthouse Rd
Appomattox, VA 24522

Winchester

45 W Boscawen St,
Winchester, VA 22601