4 Things to Know About Brick Houses as an Owner

Buying a brick home can feel like owning a piece of history. With a classic look and solid structure, brick houses are built to last. But even the sturdiest homes need a little care and attention. If you think brick homes are maintenance-free, you might be in for a surprise.

So you’re never left in the dark, this post will walk you through some important things to know. From hidden structural issues to preventative tips, we’re here to save you headaches down the line.

1) It’s Durable But Still Requires TLC

Brick houses are known for being sturdy, and often thought to require little maintenance–but that’s not exactly true. While brick is durable, it’s not immune to wear and tear.

Weather conditions like rain, freezing temperatures, and even humidity can gradually cause wear on the brick and mortar.

Regular inspections of the brickwork are essential to catch small issues before they become bigger (and more expensive) problems. Tasks like tuckpointing—the process of repairing the mortar between bricks—can help maintain the home’s structure and appearance.

2) Watch for the Hidden Risks

Even though brick homes are celebrated for their sturdiness, they can still hide serious structural problems beneath the surface.

Unlike other materials, brick can mask underlying issues like foundation shifts or settling that aren’t immediately visible to the naked eye. This can lead homeowners to think their home is in better shape than it actually is.

Over time, shifts in your home’s foundation can cause cracks in both the brick and the underlying structure.

These cracks aren’t always obvious—especially if they develop in areas hidden by landscaping or in less visible parts of the home. Settling can also create stress points that damage the brickwork, leading to further problems.

The best way to catch these issues early is through regular inspections by a professional since they’re trained to spot the telltale signs of foundation trouble, like stair-step cracks, shifting walls, or sinking areas.

3) Handle Insulation and Weather Prep

While brick provides some insulation, it’s not enough on its own to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature year-round. Without proper insulation behind the brick, you might face higher energy bills, drafts, and discomfort during extreme weather.

Older brick homes, in particular, may not have the modern insulation needed to keep energy costs low. If your home was built several decades ago, it’s worth inspecting the insulation to ensure it meets today’s standards.

Weather damage can also pose a risk to your brick home’s efficiency. Over time, harsh weather conditions can cause cracks in the brick or weaken the mortar.

To keep your home energy-efficient and well-protected, regularly inspect for signs of weather damage and ensure the insulation is adequate. Addressing these issues promptly will help improve comfort, reduce energy costs, and protect the integrity of your brick home.

4) Moisture is Your Biggest Foe

While brick itself is highly durable, water can still seep in through cracks in the mortar or damaged bricks, leading to hidden problems that aren’t immediately noticeable.
If moisture gets trapped behind your brick walls, it can result in mold, mildew, and even rot, which can weaken the structural integrity of your home over time. Signs of moisture problems can include discolored bricks, damp spots on interior walls, or a musty smell.

Issues like this often indicate that water has made its way into the structure, which can lead to costly repairs

To protect your brick home from moisture damage, it’s essential to maintain proper drainage around the foundation.

Other Recommended Maintenance

Beyond keeping an eye on the brick and mortar on the houses, there are a few other maintenance tasks that every brick homeowner should stay on top of:

• Gutter and downspout maintenance: Regularly clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure water flows away from your home. Clogged gutters can lead to water pooling around your foundation.
• Chimney checks: If your home has a brick chimney, inspect it regularly for cracks or deterioration, especially around the mortar joints. Chimneys are exposed to the elements year-round, and more prone to damage.
• Landscape grading: Ensure that the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation. Poor grading can allow water to pool near the base of your brick home.

Staying on top of these smaller maintenance tasks can go a long way in protecting the overall structure and longevity of your brick home.

When to Call a Professional

Certain signs mean it’s time to call in a professional for guidance.

• Cracks in the brick or mortar: If you notice cracks forming in the brickwork or mortar joints, especially in a stair-step pattern, it could indicate a more serious issue, such as foundation settling.
• Moisture or damp spots: If you spot discolored bricks, notice dampness inside your home, or smell a musty odor, it’s a sign that moisture has already penetrated the structure. Addressing this early can prevent extensive damage.
• Shifting or settling: If your brick home is showing signs of settling, like uneven floors, doors that stick, or walls that are shifting, it’s crucial to have a professional assess the situation before the problem worsens.

Final Thoughts

Brick houses offer timeless beauty and durability, but they still require ongoing care to maintain their value. Regular maintenance and early detection of issues like hidden structural risks, insulation gaps, and moisture damage can make a big difference in preserving your home.

When problems arise, or if you spot warning signs, it’s important to consult a professional to prevent further complications. For peace of mind and expert care, reach out to Inside and Out Property Inspectors to schedule a comprehensive home inspection today.