Cracked bricks and damaged masonry can detract from your home’s appearance and, if left unchecked, lead to more serious structural problems. Before jumping into brick crack repair, it’s crucial to understand what causes these cracks and ensure that any underlying issues are addressed first.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to fix cracked bricks the right way, with a focus on homeowners in the Greater Houston Area.
Why Are Your Bricks Cracking?
In the Greater Houston Area, the most common culprit behind cracked bricks is a shifting or settling foundation. The soil beneath your home or building naturally shifts over time due to various environmental factors, leading to foundation movement.
While all foundations move slightly, controlling this movement is key to preventing severe damage to your masonry.
If you’ve noticed cracks in your bricks, this is often a sign of foundation issues. Don’t panic—this doesn’t always mean there’s a catastrophic problem, but it does mean it’s time to get a foundation expert involved.
How to Address Foundation Issues Before Brick Repairs
Before you start any brick repairs, you’ll need a foundation specialist to assess your home’s foundation. A qualified expert will evaluate the situation and confirm whether your foundation is “performing as intended,” which means it’s functioning properly despite the movement. Here are some tips for finding the right foundation company:
- Request a Free Foundation Assessment: The assessment should always be free. If an assessor tries to charge you upfront, this may be a red flag.
- Use of Proper Tools: Ensure the company uses a Ziplevel device to take accurate digital height readings of your foundation. If they rely on less precise tools like hand levels, it’s best to look for another professional.
- Detailed Report: The assessment should include an electronic report with clear digital height measurements for each corner of your property.
Choosing the Right Foundation Repair Strategy
When it comes to foundation repair, there are two main approaches:
- Targeted Repairs: Some foundation companies only place piers in specific areas where settling has occurred. This can be a cost-effective solution but may make it harder to claim warranty repairs later on.
- Full Perimeter Repairs: Other companies install piers around the entire perimeter of the foundation. While this method is more expensive, it offers a more comprehensive solution and makes it easier to claim future warranty services if the foundation settles again.
Both methods can be effective, but the cost will depend on how many piers are needed to support the structure. The more piers installed, the higher the cost. It’s important to weigh your options and decide what makes the most sense for your home and budget.
What Comes After Foundation Repair?
Once your foundation is assessed and, if necessary, repaired, it’s time to focus on repairing the brick cracks. This is where a professional brick restoration service comes in. At Brick Restoration, we always stress that foundation issues must be resolved before starting any brick crack repairs.
If the foundation continues to shift, cracks will reappear, making repairs a temporary fix.
Get Help from Brick Restoration
At Brick Restoration, we specialize in expert brick crack repair, but we also understand the importance of getting to the root of the problem. If you’re unsure about your foundation’s condition, contact us for a recommendation.
We work with reputable foundation companies in the Greater Houston Area and can guide you in the right direction before any masonry work begins.
By addressing both your foundation and masonry issues, you’ll ensure that your brick repairs are long-lasting and that your home remains structurally sound for years to come.
Contact Brick Restoration Today
Don’t let cracked bricks compromise the beauty and safety of your home. Get in touch with Brick Restoration for a professional assessment and repair plan tailored to your needs.
This blog post provides valuable insights into brick crack repairs, foundation assessment, and repair strategies for homeowners in the Greater Houston Area. By understanding the cause of cracked bricks and addressing foundation problems first, you can ensure lasting results and protect your investment.
