Common red flags homeowners and landlords miss
Brick and stone buildings are designed to last for decades, even centuries. But that doesn’t mean they’re maintenance-free. Subtle changes in your masonry can signal underlying problems that, if ignored, may lead to costly repairs or structural issues later on.
Below are five common signs your building may need professional brick or stone repair, many of which are easy to overlook.
Cracked or spalling bricks and stone
Hairline cracks, chipped edges, or flakes breaking away from brick or stone are often early warning signs. This process, known as spalling, usually occurs when moisture enters the masonry and then expands during freezing weather.
What many people miss is that these small defects rarely stay small. Once the protective outer surface is compromised, water penetration accelerates and damage spreads to surrounding areas.
Why it matters
Left untreated, spalling can weaken masonry units and eventually affect the stability of the wall.
Deteriorating or missing mortar joints
Mortar is designed to be sacrificial – it should wear out before the bricks or stone do. Crumbling, recessed, or missing mortar joints are a clear sign that repairs are needed.
Homeowners and landlords often focus on the bricks themselves and overlook the mortar, even though it plays a crucial role in keeping the structure weatherproof and secure.
Why it matters
Failing mortar allows water to enter the wall, leading to damp problems, heat loss, and accelerated brick or stone decay.
Visible colour mismatches from previous repairs
If sections of brickwork or stone stand out due to colour differences, it may indicate poor or ageing repairs. Replacement bricks that don’t match, patch repairs, or unsuitable materials can all affect both appearance and performance.
Many people assume this is purely cosmetic, but mismatched materials often weather at different rates and may behave differently in changing temperatures.
Why it matters
Inconsistent materials can cause uneven movement and moisture retention, leading to further cracking or damage over time.
Persistent damp patches or efflorescence
Damp marks on internal walls or white, powdery deposits on external masonry (known as efflorescence) are strong indicators of moisture problems.
While efflorescence itself isn’t usually harmful, it points to water moving through the masonry – often due to damaged bricks, stone, or mortar joints.
Why it matters
Ongoing moisture penetration can lead to internal damp, mould growth, and long-term structural deterioration if the source isn’t addressed.
Loose or unstable masonry elements
Any movement in brick or stonework, including loose coping stones, window surrounds, or decorative features, should be taken seriously.
This is especially common on older or taller buildings, where weather exposure is greater and access is more difficult, meaning problems can go unnoticed for years.
Why it matters
Loose masonry is a safety hazard and can result in falling debris, insurance issues, or enforcement action for landlords and commercial property owners.
Why early repair saves money
The biggest mistake property owners make is waiting until damage becomes obvious or severe. Early brick and stone repairs are usually far more cost-effective than full replacement work and help preserve the original character of the building.
Modern repair techniques, including colour-matched brick and stone repairs and specialist tinting, can restore damaged areas so they blend seamlessly with the surrounding masonry.
When to seek professional advice
If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, it’s worth having your building assessed by a specialist masonry repair company. An experienced contractor can identify the root cause of the problem and recommend the most appropriate, long-lasting solution.
At Construction Cosmetics Ltd, we specialise in brick and stone repair, colour matching, mortar tinting, and façade restoration for residential, commercial, and heritage buildings across the UK.
