Quick Answer
Okay so here's the quick version. Your brick wall is looking like it's seen better days, right? Mortar's crumbling, maybe a brick is loose. Nine times out of ten, it's water. Water gets in, freezes, expands, and just blows the mortar apart. For very small, non-structural cracks, you can use a tube of mortar caulk for a temporary cosmetic fix. But if you're seeing big cracks, or a whole section is turning to dust, you're looking at a professional job called tuck-pointing. That'll run you anywhere from a few hundred bucks to a few thousand, depending on how bad it is.
Common Symptoms
Possible Causes
Step-by-Step Diagnosis
Step 1
Visual Inspection: Walk around the entire property, looking closely at all masonry surfaces for cracks, crumbling mortar, loose bricks, or white powder, paying special attention to areas under windows and rooflines.
Step 2
Tap Test: Gently tap bricks with the handle of a screwdriver or a rubber mallet. A hollow sound indicates a loose brick or a void behind it.
Step 3
Mortar Probe Test: Use a small, sturdy tool like a pick or a key to gently probe the mortar joints. If it crumbles into dust easily, it's deteriorated and needs replacement.
Step 4
Water Run-off Assessment: Check gutters and downspouts for clogs and make sure they discharge water far away from the foundation. Check the soil grading around the house.
Step 5
Interior Inspection: Look at interior walls that back up to exterior masonry for any signs of water stains, peeling paint, or dampness.
DIY vs Professional Costs
| Repair Type | DIY Cost | Professional Cost | Time Required |
|---|---|---|---|
Minor Crack Filling (using caulk) | $15-50 | $250-500 | 1-2 hours |
Efflorescence Cleaning | $20-40 | $200-600 | 2-4 hours |
Full Tuck-pointing (per 100 sq. ft.) | $200-400 (if you have tools) | $800-2,500 | A full weekend (or more) |
Single Loose Brick Replacement | $30-75 | $150-350 | 2-3 hours |
When to Call a Professional Masonry
- If more than 25% of the mortar on a wall is deteriorated.
- If you see any 'step cracks' or cracks wider than 1/4 inch, which indicate a potential foundation issue.
- For any repairs on a chimney due to safety risks and the need for specialized knowledge.
- If you have persistent water leakage into your home through the masonry.
- When you lack the proper tools (angle grinder, tuck-pointing trowels, hawk) or experience to perform the repair correctly.
Prevention Tips
- Perform a visual inspection of your masonry twice a year, especially in spring and fall.
- Keep gutters and downspouts clean and ensure they direct water at least 5-10 feet away from the foundation.
- Make sure the soil and landscaping grade slopes away from your house, not towards it.
- Address small cracks as soon as you see them with a quality mortar repair caulk to prevent water from getting in.
- Use low pressure and a wide-angle tip if you must power wash your brick to avoid damaging the mortar.
Frequently Asked Questions
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