Cracks occur when parts of a building structure move. The displacement may be historic, cyclic or ongoing. Movement is often the result of changes in the moisture content of brickwork or the ground that supports it. Temperature variations, chemical reactions, vibrations and overloading also cause movement-induced cracking.

Once a wall fractures, it no longer acts as a single structural unit.

Typical defects that may trigger cracks include the following.

• Ground movement. Subsidence, landslip or heave.
• Lack of support. Failure of a foundation, lintel or masonry arch.
• Insufficient restraint. Lack of wall ties or straps.
• Resizing. Expansion or shrinkage due to thermal or moisture variations.
• Rusting metals. Corroding wall ties, hoop irons or fixings.

Identify and eliminate the cause of cracking. It is vital for a successful masonry repair scheme.

Crack repair strategies fall into the following categories.

• Sub-structure repairs for foundation issues.
• Superstructure reinforcement for above-ground building defects.

Sub-structure repairs may include underpinning or piling.

Superstructure strengthening may include tying or reinforcing the walls. The structural repairs often involve inserting helical bars. Use them to form retrofit brick beams or to stitch cracks. Replacement wall ties and restraints, bolster cavity walls or wall junctions. Use resin injection products to fill and seal cracks in brickwork.

First, resolve the source of faults or weaknesses. Then, fill the cracks and reinforce the fractured masonry. The combination will restore structural integrity.

Shop online for masonry crack repair products. Discover great prices for crack stitching bars, injection resins and structural repair supplies. Combine various tying and strapping systems. It will strengthen brickwork and resist damage from building movement.