Brick and Masonry Crack Repair in Denver, CO
A crack in your brick wall is a symptom, not a cause. Filling it without understanding why it happened is one of the most common — and most expensive — mistakes in masonry repair. At Denver Brick Specialists, we start every crack repair job by answering a simple question: why is this cracking?
Types of Cracks and What They Mean
Stair-Step Cracking
The most common crack pattern in brick masonry — cracks following the mortar joints in a stair-step pattern. Typically indicates differential settlement, thermal movement, or deteriorated mortar joints forced open by freeze-thaw cycling.
Horizontal Cracking
Running along a mortar bed joint, these often indicate lateral pressure on the wall from soil pressure, roof or floor thrust, or lintel failure. Horizontal cracking in a foundation wall is a structural warning sign requiring structural evaluation.
Vertical Cracking
Can indicate differential movement at corners or transitions, thermal expansion in a long wall without appropriate control joints, or failure of the masonry-to-frame connection.
Diagonal Cracking from Openings
Cracks running at roughly 45 degrees from the corners of windows and doors typically indicate lintel failure or settlement near an opening. Usually structurally significant.
Hairline Surface Cracks in Mortar
Fine surface cracks in mortar joints without displacement are often purely cosmetic — the result of mortar shrinkage during curing or minor thermal movement. Usually addressed with repointing.
The Importance of Finding the Cause
Masonry cracks are frequently the visible symptom of a problem that started somewhere else. If the cause isn't addressed, the repair will fail. We've seen walls repointed three times in 20 years because the cause was never investigated.
Crack Repair Methods
Repointing
For cracks that follow mortar joints with no displacement, repointing with compatible mortar is the appropriate repair.
Brick Replacement
Where brick units have cracked through their full body, replacement is required.
When to Call Immediately
Cracks widening visibly over days or weeks
Horizontal cracking in foundation or basement walls
Cracks accompanied by wall lean or displacement
Crack patterns suggesting lintel failure — diagonal from door/window corners with arch above sagging
Visible brick displacement outward from the wall plane
