Small hairline cracks in bricks

Question

We’ve got a couple of hairline cracks running through the mortar and a few bricks. Is that something to keep an eye on or totally normal on older houses?

Will · Answer

Bazeley builders Ltd here 
Always a good way to keep an eye on it even take a picture of it,
If it’s an old house it is very common, 
But if it starts getting bigger through joints and the bricks that will be a structural problem slight subsidence 
Can easily be sorted

David · Answer

Hairline cracks are worth keeping an eye on if they have recently appeared. Select two seperate bricks and mark them with a weatherproof marker, then take a close-up photo of each crack whilst holding a steel rule near-to. Check frequently at first and then less frequently as time goes on, if there is no further movement.

Marius · Answer

the cracked area my need repaointed ,thats absolutly normal for the brickwork joints

Andrea · Answer

Hairline cracks in brick and mortar are fairly common, especially in older homes. They often happen due to normal settling, seasonal expansion/contraction, or minor shrinkage in the mortar. If the cracks are very fine and not spreading, they’re usually not a structural concern.

That said, it’s a good idea to:

Keep an eye on them to see if they widen over time.

Seal or repoint mortar cracks to prevent water from getting in and causing damage.

Call a professional if cracks become wider than 1/8", run diagonally, or keep growing.

In most cases, small hairline cracks are cosmetic, but monitoring them helps catch any bigger issues early.

Daniel · Answer

A picture would help considerably?
Probably settlement and likely historic but always keep an eye on the situation and check there is not any current movement.
If the mortar has shrunk it may need raked out and replaced to prevent frost action blowing the face of the bricks off.

Richard · Answer

Good afternoon, 
Although its perfectly normal to get cracks in older house due to the building methods, especially above windows & chimney breasts as these are weak points.
It may be worth getting a contractor or structural engineer to take a look & compile a report for you.

Darren · Answer

Depending on how big and how far the cracks are and go but generally quite normal to find on old properties. 
Very easy repair with heliflex rods and new mortor 
Kind regards darren from gb refurbishments

Oleh · Answer

Small hairline cracks in older brickwork are quite common and usually nothing serious. They often happen due to natural movement of the building and weather changes. If the cracks are very fine and not widening, it’s mainly cosmetic.

It’s a good idea to monitor them over time – if they start getting wider or longer, then it may indicate movement and you should get a professional to check. For peace of mind, you can also repoint the mortar or replace any damaged bricks to stop water ingress and keep the wall in good condition.

Benjamin · Answer

hi where about are the cracks on the building ? above a lintel, below 1m or in the main structure do you have any photos?
kind regards ben frnklin

Michael · Answer

It's normal but if it is all round the house it could to be something with the foundation or movement do u live near a road or sometimes is down to the weather

Small hairline cracks in bricks

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