Why Your Brick Wall Is Cracking (And When It’s a Serious Problem)
If you’ve noticed cracks forming in your brick wall, you’re probably wondering:
“Is this normal… or is something wrong with my house?”
In Atlanta, brick cracking is actually a very common issue—but not all cracks are harmless. Some are purely cosmetic, while others can point to foundation movement, moisture problems, or structural stress. The key is knowing the difference.
In this guide, we’ll explain:
- What causes brick walls to crack
- Which cracks are normal—and which are serious
- How Atlanta’s soil and weather affect masonry
- When you should call a masonry contractor
- What your repair options look like
If you’re seeing cracks in your brick, don’t ignore them—small issues can quickly turn into expensive repairs.
What Causes Brick Walls to Crack in Atlanta?
Brick itself is strong, but the system behind it (mortar, foundation, and soil) can shift over time.
Here are the most common causes of brick cracking in the Atlanta area:
1. Foundation Movement
The #1 cause of brick cracks is foundation settling or shifting.
Atlanta’s clay-heavy soil expands when wet and shrinks when dry. Over time, this movement can cause:
- stress on brick walls
- shifting support underneath the home
- visible cracks in mortar and brick
2. Temperature Changes
Brick expands and contracts with temperature swings.
Even in Georgia, where winters are relatively mild, repeated heating and cooling cycles can:
- weaken mortar joints
- create small cracks over time
3. Moisture and Water Intrusion
Water is one of the biggest threats to masonry.
Moisture can:
- seep into mortar joints
- freeze during cold snaps
- expand and create cracks
- weaken structural integrity over time
4. Poor Drainage Around the Home
Improper drainage can lead to:
- water pooling near the foundation
- soil movement
- increased pressure on brick walls
This is especially common in homes with sloped yards or improper grading.
5. Aging Mortar
Mortar doesn’t last forever.
Over time, it naturally breaks down due to:
- weather exposure
- UV rays
- moisture
- general aging
When mortar weakens, cracks begin to appear between bricks.
Types of Brick Cracks (Which Ones Should You Worry About?)
Not all cracks are equal. Some are minor, while others are warning signs of bigger issues.
Hairline Cracks (Usually Cosmetic)
These are small, thin cracks that:
- appear in mortar joints
- are less than 1/16 inch wide
- don’t grow over time
Typically not urgent, but still worth monitoring.
Stair-Step Cracks (Potentially Serious)
These cracks follow the mortar joints in a stair-step pattern.
They often indicate:
- foundation movement
- structural stress
These should be inspected by a professional.
Horizontal Cracks (Serious Warning Sign)
Horizontal cracks in brick walls can signal:
- significant pressure from soil
- structural issues
- potential wall failure
These should be addressed quickly.
Cracks with Bulging or Leaning Walls
If you notice:
- bricks pushing outward
- walls leaning
- visible separation
This is a serious structural issue and should be inspected immediately.
How to Tell If Brick Cracks Are Getting Worse
Some cracks stay stable, while others continue to grow.
Watch for:
- cracks that get wider over time
- new cracks forming nearby
- doors or windows sticking
- gaps forming between brick and siding
- water entering through cracks
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to act.
When Should You Call a Masonry Contractor?
You don’t need to panic over every crack—but there are clear situations where you should call a professional.
Call a masonry contractor if you see:
- stair-step cracks
- horizontal cracks
- widening cracks
- loose or shifting bricks
- moisture coming through the wall
- leaning or bulging brick
A professional inspection can determine whether the issue is:
- cosmetic
- repairable with mortar work
- related to foundation movement
- something that needs immediate attention
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Brick Cracks
Ignoring masonry problems often leads to:
- water damage inside walls
- worsening structural issues
- more expensive repairs later
- reduced home value
What starts as a small crack can eventually require major reconstruction if left untreated.
How Brick Wall Cracks Are Repaired
The right repair method depends on the cause of the problem.
Common repair solutions include:
Tuckpointing / Repointing
Replacing damaged mortar to restore strength and appearance
Brick Replacement
Removing and replacing cracked or damaged bricks
Structural Masonry Repair
Reinforcing sections of the wall affected by movement
Drainage Improvements
Fixing water issues that contribute to cracking
An experienced masonry contractor will recommend the best solution based on your specific situation.
Why Professional Masonry Repair Matters
Brick repair is not just about appearance—it’s about protecting your home’s structure.
Professional masonry repair ensures:
- proper materials are used
- repairs match existing brickwork
- long-term durability
- underlying issues are addressed
Homeowners across Atlanta rely on experienced masons to prevent small problems from turning into major structural repairs.
FAQs: Brick Wall Cracks in Atlanta
Are cracks in brick walls normal?
Small hairline cracks can be normal, but larger or growing cracks may indicate structural issues.
Can cracked brick be repaired?
Yes. Many cracks can be repaired with mortar replacement or brick repair without rebuilding the entire wall.
How much does brick crack repair cost?
Costs vary depending on the severity of the damage, but early repairs are usually much more affordable than major structural fixes.
Do I need a mason or a foundation contractor?
A masonry contractor can assess the damage and determine if the issue is masonry-related or if a foundation specialist is needed.
Need Brick Repair in Atlanta?
If you’ve noticed cracks in your brick walls, the best thing you can do is get a professional opinion before the problem gets worse.
The team at Brick Mason Atlanta provides expert masonry repair services throughout Atlanta, including brick repair, tuckpointing, chimney repair, retaining walls, and structural masonry work.
We’ll inspect your brickwork, identify the cause of the problem, and recommend the most cost-effective solution.
Call today to schedule your free masonry inspection and estimate.