How to Repair Cracked Mortar After Settlement on a Brick Wall

Mortar is a binding agent composed of lime, sand and cement which is often used in the joints between brick structures. While mortar joints may appear even and sound after initial application, once the brick wall settles, cracks may begin to appear. Though not a problem structurally, these cracks are unsightly. Unfortunately, the only way to repair them is by removing a layer of the mortar and re-applying a fresh batch. Even those inexperienced with mortaring, however, can complete the project in just a few hours of work.

Eye protection
Work gloves
Cold chisel
Hammer
Wire brush
Bucket
Pre-mixed mortar
Garden hose
Shovel
Pointed trowel

Instructions

- 1
  Protect your eyes and hands with goggles and works gloves.
- 2
  Press the tip of a cold chisel into the joints between the bricks where the mortar has cracked and angle it at 45 degrees.
- 3
  Hold the chisel securely with one hand while striking the end with a hammer to remove 1/2 inch layer of the mortar. If the cracks run deeper than 1/2 inch, continue chiseling until you have reached solid mortar.
- 4
  Clear out the joints between the brick with a wire brush.
- 5
  Fill a plastic 5-gallon bucket with pre-mixed mortar powder and water in the ratio outlined on the packaging. Stir thoroughly with a shovel until the mixture is uniform and has the consistency of a butter-cream frosting.
- 6
  Immediately scoop the mortar into the joints between the brick with a pointed trowel and fill the joint 1/4 inch at a time. Allow the mortar to set up for 15 minutes before applying another layer. Repeat until the mortar is flush with the brick face.

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