Cracks in brickwork are a common sight, but determining when they're a minor cosmetic issue and when they signal a serious structural problem requires careful observation and understanding. This guide will help you assess the severity of brick cracks and decide when professional help is needed.
What Causes Cracks in Brick Walls?
Before we delve into when to worry, let's understand the root causes. Cracks can stem from a variety of factors, including:
- Settlement: As the foundation settles, the house can shift, leading to cracks. This is particularly common in older homes or those built on unstable ground.
- Shrinkage: Bricks and mortar shrink as they dry, sometimes causing hairline cracks. This is usually less concerning than cracks resulting from movement.
- Temperature Changes: Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause expansion and contraction in the brickwork, leading to cracks.
- Moisture: Water damage from leaks or poor drainage can weaken the mortar and bricks, resulting in cracks.
- Tree Roots: Aggressive tree roots can exert pressure on foundations and walls, causing cracks.
- Poor Construction: Defects in the original construction can manifest as cracks over time.
How to Identify Serious Cracks vs. Minor Cracks
The key to determining the severity of a crack lies in its characteristics:
- Size and Width: Hairline cracks (thin as a hair) are often less serious than wider cracks. A crack wider than ¼ inch should be investigated.
- Length: Long cracks extending across multiple bricks are more concerning than short, isolated cracks.
- Pattern: Step-like cracks (where one side of the crack is higher than the other) can indicate significant foundation movement.
- Location: Cracks near windows, doors, or corners might be less structurally significant than those running vertically through the wall.
- Movement: If you notice the crack widening or changing over time, it’s a serious red flag.
What Types of Cracks Should I Worry About?
Are vertical cracks in brickwork serious?
Vertical cracks, especially those that are wide, long, or accompanied by other signs like leaning walls or foundation problems, are serious and warrant immediate attention from a structural engineer. They often indicate foundation settlement or other significant structural issues.
What do diagonal cracks in brick walls mean?
Diagonal cracks are also a cause for concern, as they often signify significant structural movement. This type of crack can indicate that your foundation is settling unevenly and requires professional inspection.
Are horizontal cracks in brick walls serious?
Horizontal cracks can indicate issues with the foundation or other structural elements. While not always critical, they should be evaluated by a professional to rule out serious problems.
How serious are cracks in brick chimneys?
Chimney cracks are particularly dangerous, as they can compromise the structural integrity of the chimney and create a fire hazard. These should be inspected and repaired by a qualified chimney sweep or mason immediately.
What causes cracks in brick walls around windows and doors?
Cracks around windows and doors often result from settling or movement of the surrounding structure. They can sometimes be related to inadequate framing or installation of the windows and doors. While less serious than major foundation cracks, they should still be checked by a professional to ensure they aren’t indicators of more widespread problems.
When to Call a Professional
You should call a structural engineer or experienced mason if you notice:
- Wide cracks (wider than ¼ inch).
- Long cracks extending across multiple bricks.
- Step-like cracks.
- Cracks that are widening or changing.
- Cracks accompanied by other signs of structural damage (leaning walls, sticking doors, etc.).
- Cracks in the foundation.
- Cracks in the chimney.
Ignoring significant cracks can lead to costly repairs down the line, potentially affecting the safety and value of your property. It's always better to err on the side of caution and seek professional advice. A thorough inspection can provide peace of mind and help you address the problem before it becomes a major issue.
