A brick veneer that's pulling away from the house is more than just a cosmetic concern—it can be a sign of structural movement, water damage, or improper installation. While brick veneer is typically non-load-bearing, it still plays a critical role in protecting your home's exterior and maintaining curb appeal. When it starts to separate from the wall behind it, immediate attention is recommended to prevent further damage or safety risks.
What Is Brick Veneer?
Brick veneer is a single layer of brick installed over a structural wall, commonly made of wood framing or concrete block. Unlike solid brick walls, veneer is held in place with metal ties or anchors that connect it to the structure, along with mortar joints for sealing and bonding.
Why Brick Veneer Pulls Away
Missing or Corroded Wall Ties
Wall ties secure the brick to the house. If they're missing, improperly installed, or rusted over time, the brick can start to lean or bulge outward.
Moisture Damage
Water intrusion from poor drainage, clogged weep holes, or damaged flashing can weaken mortar joints and rot the structural wall behind the veneer.
Foundation Movement
Shifting or settling foundations can cause the brick veneer to crack, bulge, or detach—especially if the movement is uneven across the wall.
Poor Construction Practices
Veneer walls that lack proper expansion joints, support, or back ventilation may experience premature failure.
Freeze/Thaw Cycles
In cold climates, water trapped behind the veneer can freeze, expand, and push bricks outward over time.
Heavy Vibration or Impact
Nearby construction, seismic activity, or vehicle impact can shift sections of veneer, especially if it's already compromised.
Signs of Brick Veneer Separation
Visible gap between the brick and the house
Bulging or bowing of the brick surface
Cracks in mortar joints or surrounding trim
Loose or wobbly bricks when lightly tapped
Water stains or efflorescence (white powdery deposits)
Movement around windows or doors in the veneer layer
Risks of Ignoring the Problem
Water Intrusion: Gaps allow rainwater to seep behind the veneer, causing damage to framing, insulation, and interior finishes.
Falling Bricks: A severely separated veneer could shed bricks, posing a safety hazard to people below.
Worsening Structural Movement: If caused by foundation settlement, the problem will likely progress without intervention.
Decreased Property Value: Visible exterior damage can lower a home’s market appeal and inspection outcomes.
Repair and Reinforcement Options
Install or Replace Wall Ties
In many cases, new helical or retrofit wall ties can be drilled through the brick into the structural wall to re-anchor the veneer.
Repointing and Mortar Repair
Deteriorated mortar joints can be removed and replaced to restore surface integrity and prevent water intrusion.
Partial Rebuild
If the veneer is severely detached or bulging, that section may need to be dismantled and rebuilt properly with new ties and flashing.
Foundation Repair
If the root cause is settlement or soil movement, a foundation specialist may need to stabilize or underpin the structure before cosmetic repairs.
Waterproofing and Drainage Improvement
Repair flashing, clear weep holes, and ensure proper grading to prevent moisture buildup behind the veneer.
When to Call a Professional
A brick veneer that’s pulling away should be assessed by a qualified contractor or structural engineer. They can determine whether the issue is isolated or symptomatic of a larger problem—such as water infiltration or foundation movement—and recommend appropriate repairs.
Final Thoughts
While brick veneer is a durable and attractive exterior finish, it depends on proper support and installation to function safely. If you notice any signs of separation, don’t ignore them. Early repairs can save thousands in future damage and help keep your home structurally sound and weather-tight.