The short answer
What Causes Brick to Crumble
Brick siding crumbles when water gets into the brick and then freezes. As the water turns to ice, it expands and pushes tiny pieces of brick outward. This is called spalling. It often happens on the lower rows of siding where rain splash and snow melt keep the brick wet.
Another cause is salt. If groundwater carries salts up into the brick, the salts can crystallize and push the surface off. Poor drainage from gutters or downspouts can also keep the brick wet for long stretches. A leaky roof or a cracked sealant around windows can add more moisture.
Signs of Water Damage Behind the Brick
Look for white powdery stains on the brick, which are salt deposits. Check for soft or flaking spots, especially near the bottom of a wall. If the mortar between bricks is crumbling or missing, water can get in even faster. Also, check for dampness on interior walls that share the same side as the brick.
A musty smell indoors or peeling paint on interior walls can point to moisture trapped behind the brick. If you see these signs, the water may be coming from a leaky pipe, a bad window seal, or poor grading outside. The pros can use moisture mapping to find where water is entering.
- White salt stains on the brick surface
- Soft or powdery spots when you touch the brick
- Mortar that is cracked or missing between bricks
- Damp patches on interior walls or ceilings
- Musty smell near the affected wall
How to Find the Water Source
Start by checking the obvious spots. Look at gutters and downspouts to see if they are clogged or overflowing. Check the grade of the soil next to your foundation; it should slope away from the house. Inspect window sills and the sealant around windows and doors for gaps or cracks.
If you do not find an obvious source, the water may be coming from a hidden pipe leak inside the wall. A leak detection service can help pinpoint the problem without tearing open your siding. If you live in Layton, keep your shutoff valve location written down so you can act quickly when a leak appears.
What Repair Usually Involves
Repairing crumbled brick starts with removing the damaged pieces and any loose mortar. The pros then replace the brick and repoint the joints with fresh mortar. Before any new brick goes in, the underlying wall needs to be dry. If moisture is still present, it will keep damaging the new work.
The pros may use structural drying and dehumidification to dry out the wall cavity. They might also recommend improving drainage or adding a waterproof coating to the brick. The exact steps depend on how much brick is damaged and what caused the moisture in the first place.
- Remove loose and crumbling brick pieces
- Dry out the wall cavity with dehumidifiers
- Replace damaged brick and repoint mortar joints
- Fix the water source, such as a gutter or leaky pipe
- Improve soil grading or add a water repellent sealant
When to Call the Pros
If the crumbling covers a large area or if you see signs of water getting into your home, call the pros. They can inspect the full wall, map moisture levels, and find the source of the water. Acting quickly can prevent the damage from spreading to the structure behind the brick.
The pros can also help with the drying process and any interior repairs if water already reached your drywall or flooring. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. If you are unsure about the cause, a professional inspection is a good next step.
Talk to someone now
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (801) 383-0232Frequently asked questions
Can crumbled brick be fixed or does it need replacing?
Small areas of spalling can often be repaired by removing the damaged brick and installing new ones. If the damage is widespread, a larger section of the wall may need to be rebuilt. The pros will assess the extent and recommend the right approach.
How do I know if the water is coming from a pipe leak?
If you notice persistent dampness on interior walls or a musty smell, a hidden pipe leak is possible. A leak detection service can use specialized tools to find the leak without much demolition. Look for water stains on ceilings or floors as another clue.
Will my insurance cover brick repair?
Coverage depends on the cause of the damage. Sudden events like a burst pipe are often handled differently than gradual wear from moisture. Check your policy and talk to your insurer. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.