![stair step cracks in concrete block walls stair step cracks in concrete block walls](https://www.fixyourwaterybasement.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Cracked-concrete-block-foundation-1200x800.jpg)
Use a brush or roller to apply an acrylic-based sealant evenly across the entire wall. This will help protect it from future damage and give your wall a more polished look. Once the mortar has dried, you can apply a sealant to the brick. You have to be patient and make sure that the mortar is completely dry before continuing. Once you have filled in the crack, allow it to dry and set for at least 24 hours before continuing with the next step. Also you have to make sure that the mortar is completely dry before applying any additional sealant. Make sure that you use enough mortar so that it is just slightly above the surface of the brick wall. Using a mortar mix, fill in the crack to create a level surface. Use a wire brush to remove any loose debris and then rinse the wall using a garden hose. The first step to fixing stair step cracks in brick is to clean the wall and remove any loose mortar that may be present. How to Fix Stair Step Cracks in Brick in 6 Easy Steps Step 1: Clean the Wall and Remove Loose Mortar For example, thermal expansion and contraction can be controlled by using more flexible mortars and the bricks should be laid properly to prevent poor joint lines. Once the cause has been identified, it can be addressed accordingly. It is important to determine the underlying causes of stair step cracking in brick before attempting any repair work. Also, soil conditions like underground water or soil erosion can cause a building’s foundation to become unstable and result in stair-step cracking. If a building’s foundation is not stable, the walls can shift or move slightly causing stair-step cracking. Lastly, foundation problems can be the cause of stair step cracking in brick walls. If a contractor fails to ensure that the mortar joints between the bricks are level, there can be uneven stress on both sides of the wall resulting in stair-step cracking. Poorly Laid BricksĪnother cause of stair step cracking in brick is when the bricks are not laid properly. This can lead to stress fractures at certain points that result in visible stair-step cracking. As temperatures fluctuate, the mortar used to hold the bricks together expands and contracts more quickly than the actual brick itself. One of the primary causes of stair step cracks in brick is thermal expansion and contraction. Continue reading to learn more about how to fix stair step cracks in brick! What Causes Stair Step Cracks in Brick? 1. Fortunately, there are steps you can take now to stop them from worsening and ensure that your mortar stays strong for years to come. Left unchecked, these cracks in your bricks can quickly become a major structural issue, leaving you with an eye sore as well as expensive repairs. When it comes to preserving the beauty and longevity of your brickwork, stair step cracking is one problem that you don’t want to ignore. Here, we’ll go over what causes stair step cracks to form in bricks and provide you with an easy approach to fix them. While it may be tempting to ignore this problem, stair-step cracks are a sign that there are foundational issues that should be addressed as soon as possible. So, we need to learn how to fix stair step cracks in brick. Are you noticing stair-step cracking in the brick of your home’s exterior? This type of cracking is common with both older and newer homes, but it can be concerning if left unchecked.