In a place like Des Moines, where homes are exposed to dramatic temperature swings, heavy storms, and freeze-thaw cycles, your brickwork takes a beating over time. And yet, many homeowners brush off the early signs of damage, especially small cracks in their brick or mortar joints. These fine lines may not seem like much, but the reality is that even minor cracking can be the first visible sign of a deeper issue.
Understanding what these cracks mean, why they form, and how to address them early is one of the most important steps you can take to preserve the structure and safety of your home. In this post, we will break down why cracks develop, what types are most concerning, and how acting early can prevent costly repairs later.
The Nature of Brick and Mortar
Brick is a remarkably durable material. It has been used in construction for centuries for a reason; it lasts. But no material is immune to environmental stress. While bricks themselves tend to hold up well, the mortar that binds them together is more vulnerable to deterioration over time. Temperature shifts, moisture, vibration, and natural settling all contribute to tiny stress fractures. These often show up first as thin vertical or horizontal cracks, commonly near window sills, corners, or along stair-step patterns in the joints.
These cracks can seem minor at first glance. But what they really indicate is movement, either in the brick structure itself or in the foundation beneath it.
Cracks Are a Clue, Not Just a Cosmetic Flaw
A lot of people assume that if a crack is small, it must not be a big deal. The truth is, cracks often reveal problems that are invisible to the untrained eye. They may be the result of a shifting foundation, rusting steel lintels, poorly installed brickwork, or mortar that has broken down from years of weather exposure.
In other words, a crack is not just something that looks bad—it is something that often means something. It is your home’s way of letting you know that part of its structure is under strain.
Moisture Will Exploit Every Weak Point
Once a crack forms, even a very small one, it opens the door for moisture to creep in. Water does not need much space to work its way into a wall cavity. And once it is inside, it can trigger a cascade of damage. Mortar softens, brick faces flake off, insulation becomes wet, and wood framing starts to rot. Worse still, during colder months, that trapped moisture can freeze and expand, forcing the crack wider and doing even more damage in the process.
One of the most frustrating things about moisture damage is that it often remains hidden until it becomes severe. By the time you notice bubbling paint indoors or bricks visibly crumbling outside, the underlying damage has likely been progressing for months or years.
When to Worry About Cracks in Your Brickwork
Not every crack means your home is in danger, but you should never guess. If you see cracks wider than a hairline, cracks that widen or lengthen over time, or cracks near the corners of windows and doors, these may indicate structural movement that needs to be addressed. Similarly, stair-step cracks in brickwork are often a red flag for foundation issues.
Other signs to look out for include:
• Doors or windows that stick or no longer close properly
• Gaps appearing between bricks or around window frames
• Cracks that reappear after being repaired previously
• Water intrusion in the same area as visible cracks
If any of these apply, it is best not to wait. A professional inspection can determine whether the problem is minor or something more serious.
Early Repairs Keep Costs Down
The cost difference between fixing a few cracks and rebuilding a damaged wall is enormous. Small repairs might involve repointing a few joints or replacing several bricks. When caught early, the work is straightforward and contained. But if left alone, minor cracks can grow, moisture damage can spread, and the structural integrity of the wall can decline rapidly. At that point, repairs become far more extensive and expensive.
It is not uncommon for homeowners to delay calling a mason until the damage becomes impossible to ignore. By that time, the repair often involves structural reinforcement, full sections of demolition, or extensive waterproofing.
The earlier you intervene, the simpler the fix.
Call Brickwork Brigade Des Moines
We are here to help before things get worse. Our team has years of experience diagnosing and repairing cracked brickwork throughout the Des Moines area. Whether you need a few mortar joints replaced or you are looking at a more involved repair, we will give you a clear, honest assessment and do the job right. Reach out today and let us take a look before those small cracks become big problems.
