.png)
Foundation Issue:
Exterior Brick Cracks
At Local Waterproofing and Concrete, we know that homeowners in Hinckley, MN and nearby Minnesota communities often don’t realize the seriousness of cracked bricks until it’s too late. While a small crack in your home’s brick exterior might seem like a minor issue, it can actually be one of the most visible early warning signs of a shifting or settling foundation.
What Do Exterior Brick Cracks Indicate?
Cracked bricks typically occur when the foundation beneath a home moves, settles, or shifts unevenly. As the structure below changes position, the rigid masonry above struggles to adjust, leading to visible cracks along walls, chimneys, and around windows or doors. In Minnesota’s climate — with its expansive clay soils, freeze-thaw cycles, and heavy snowmelt — cracked bricks are a common symptom of foundation movement. The pattern and direction of the crack often indicate the type and severity of the foundation problem:
-
Stair-step cracks in mortar joints are a classic sign of foundation settlement.
-
Horizontal cracks may point to excessive lateral pressure on basement or crawl space walls.
-
Vertical cracks can develop from minor settling or thermal expansion but may worsen if the foundation isn’t stabilized.
-
Diagonal cracks often suggest uneven foundation movement or soil erosion beneath the structure.
If you spot these types of cracks in your home’s brickwork, it’s wise to have your foundation inspected before the problem escalates.
Why Cracked Bricks Are a Concern in Minnesota
Left unchecked, cracked bricks can allow moisture to seep into the walls, cause further structural instability, and lead to costly repairs in the future. Minnesota homes are especially vulnerable to this issue because of our region’s:
-
Clay-rich soils that expand and contract dramatically with moisture changes.
-
Freeze-thaw cycles that place constant stress on soil and foundations.
-
Heavy precipitation and snowmelt that increase soil saturation and hydrostatic pressure.
-
Soil erosion from poor drainage or improper grading.
How Our Local Experts Can Help
As a locally owned and operated business, Local Waterproofing and Concrete understands the unique foundation challenges homeowners face across Minnesota. Our team provides honest evaluations, expert recommendations, and permanent repairs tailored to your property and soil conditions.
Brick Cracks Foundation Repair Hinckley MN
At Local Waterproofing and Concrete, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing foundation issues caused by soil movement, hydrostatic pressure, and Minnesota’s demanding weather conditions. Our experienced team will:
-
Inspect your foundation and home exterior for signs of movement and damage.
-
Determine the underlying cause of brick cracking.
-
Recommend appropriate, effective repair solutions to resolve the extent of the issues your foundation is facing.
Our goal is to deliver long-lasting, cost-effective solutions that protect your home from further damage and preserve its value.
Inspection of Cracks in Bricks
If you’ve noticed cracked bricks on your home’s exterior, don’t ignore the warning signs. Contact Local Waterproofing and Concrete today for a free, no-obligation foundation inspection in Hinckley, MN or surrounding Minnesota towns. We’ll help you identify the source of the problem and recommend effective, lasting solutions.
