Imagine walking around your property and noticing cracks running along your garden wall or a slight lean to your retaining wall. These damages may seem minor at first, but if left unattended, they could worsen and lead to more serious issues later on as well as costly repairs.
Block walls, walls made from concrete blocks held together with mortar, are made to last but are not exempt from wear and tear.
As block walls exist in the outside environment, they are subject to a myriad of conditions that often lead to damage over time. From deteriorating mortar and cracks to leaning and bulging, these issues are more than just unsightly blemishes. In fact, block wall damage can compromise the structural integrity of the structure, leading to safety concerns and even further property damage.
In this blog post, we will dive into some common signs of block wall damage as well as their main causes. By recognizing these early signs, you will be better equipped to take proactive steps to restore your block walls to their original, beautiful condition.
Signs of Block Wall Damage
Block wall issues exhibit themselves in multiple ways, some that are more obvious than others. Regardless of the extend of the damage when you first notice it, though, it will likely exacerbate if left untreated and lead to even further problems. Here is a list of common issues you may notice with your block wall:
• Cracks – Cracks to a block wall can appear horizontally, vertically, or in a stair-step pattern. These often indicate that the bricks have moved.
• Bowing or Bulging – The wall may also bow out or bulge, which can indicate structural damage.
• Leaning – If your block wall is leaning to one side, you may have an issue in the foundation caused by shifting soil or poor construction. It is important to have a leaning block wall repaired as soon as you notice it as it could mean the wall is on the verge of collapse.
• Mortar Deterioration – Mortar is the material that holds the bricks together. Over time, this mortar may crumble, crack, or loosen, leaving the wall unstable.
If your block wall is exhibiting any of the problem signs listed above, that means it is time to consider masonry repair. Not only will masonry repair services return your block wall to its original glory but also extend the life of the wall and protect your investment.
At Primo Contracting Rochester Hills, our construction team are trained experts in masonry repair and services, and we are here to restore your block wall to a safe and beautiful condition.
We take a meticulous approach to every repair job, addressing the root cause of the damage rather than simply masking symptoms.
Causes of Block Wall Damage
As we stated above, block wall damage is typically caused by environmental conditions such as extreme weather fluctuations and excess water. Now that you know what to look for when it comes to your block wall, let’s dive into the factors behind the damage.
Moisture and Weather
Water is one of the leading causes of block wall damage. Bricks, concrete and otherwise, are naturally porous, meaning that water from rain or snow can seep into their interior. Cold temperatures then freeze this water, causing brick expansion, while warm temperatures thaw the water and cause bricks to contract.
This back-and-forth cycle is vicious to the integrity of the structure, leading to cracks and crumbling mortars.
Soil Pressure
Similar to the bricks of your wall, soil retains water, which causes it to expand. This expansion creates pressure on your wall that can lead to issues like leaning, bulging, and bowing. These issues do not appear suddenly one day; instead, the wall will begin to lean subtlety at first.
As time goes on, the leaning will become more and more pronounced until it is unavoidably noticeable and eventually collapses.
Foundation Settlement
We have all heard the creaking and groaning of our homes at night. This is your house settling in the foundation. Block walls do the same thing. However, if the ground beneath the block wall is not uniform or the foundation was installed incorrectly, the bricks may crack or lean.
Poor Construction
Block walls are hearty structures with a lot of weight to them. If not properly reinforced by professionals or if low-quality materials were used, the wall’s integrity may have been compromised from the beginning, causing damage to be inevitable. This is why many DIY block walls fail prematurely. It is always a good idea to hire experienced professionals to properly construct a block wall and ensure its longevity.
Turn to Expert Masonry and Block Wall Repair
When it comes to block walls or any brick structure, regular maintenance and timely repairs are not just about keeping up appearances. While block walls are beautiful and functional additions to any property, they do require regular upkeep to ensure they remain safe and their structural integrity intact.
If you do notice any damage to your block wall, don’t hesitate to reach out to the construction experts us at Primo Contracting, where the integrity of your masonry structure is our top priority. We have been providing the highest quality brick masonry and construction services to homes and businesses for decades.
Our experience shows in our lasting work. Don’t wait to address damage to your brick and stone structures. Call and schedule a Free Evaluation and Estimate today.