How to Spot Storm Damage on My Brick Exterior?
Last updated October 31, 2026
The short answer
Start with a Visual Sweep
Begin at the ground level and work your way up. Look for obvious cracks in the brick face, especially near corners and around openings like windows and doors. Cracks can be hairline or wider; both deserve attention because water can enter through them. Also check for bricks that look pushed out or sunken compared to the rest of the wall.
Pay attention to the mortar between the bricks. Crumbling or missing mortar is a common sign of storm damage. Rain and wind can erode old mortar, and freezing temperatures can make it worse. If you see areas where mortar has fallen out, that is a clear signal that water is getting behind the brick. Use a flashlight to inspect shadowed areas.
Look for Water Stains and Efflorescence
Water stains on brick often appear as dark, streaky marks that run downward. They may be accompanied by a white, powdery deposit called efflorescence. This happens when water evaporates and leaves behind mineral salts. Seeing efflorescence means moisture has been moving through the brick, which can lead to more serious damage over time.
Check the base of walls and along the foundation for staining. Also look at the top of the brick wall where it meets the roofline or parapet. Stains in those areas suggest that water is getting in from above. If you live in Quincy, keep a record of where you see stains so you can track whether they get worse after each storm.
- Cracks wider than a hairline
- Loose or missing bricks
- Crumbling mortar joints
- White or gray efflorescence patches
- Dark water streaks on the brick face
- Bricks that bulge outward or tilt
Check Around Windows and Doors
The areas around windows and doors are weak points in a brick exterior. Storm-driven rain can force water through gaps that were never sealed well. Look for cracked caulk or sealant, and check if the brick seems to have shifted away from the frame. If you see a gap, water can easily enter the wall cavity and cause rot or mold inside.
Open and close each window and door to see if they stick or bind. A change in operation can indicate that the brick or framing has moved. Also examine the sills and headers for cracks. Any damage here can let water into the interior, so you want to catch it early. If you are unsure, a local water damage pro can do a more detailed inspection.
Inspect the Roof and Gutters
Your brick exterior is only as dry as the roof and gutters above it. After a storm, check that gutters are not clogged or overflowing, because water spilling over the edge can soak the brick below. Also look for missing shingles or damaged flashing where the roof meets the brick. Water that runs down the exterior can cause long-term damage.
While you are up there, or using binoculars from the ground, check the top course of brick for cracks or displaced units. The freeze-thaw cycle in a humid continental climate can be hard on brick, especially with coastal nor'easters. If you see signs of water on the brick after a heavy rain, the source may be above, not on the wall itself.
Know When to Call the Pros
Some storm damage is obvious, but some is hidden. If you find cracks, spalling (flaking or chipping of the brick surface), or areas where the brick feels soft or crumbly to the touch, it is time to get a professional opinion. A water damage inspection can identify moisture inside the wall that you cannot see from outside.
The pros will use tools like moisture meters and borescopes to check for hidden water. They can also assess whether the damage is structural or just cosmetic. Do not delay, as water can weaken the brick and lead to costly repairs. If you suspect damage, act within a few days to prevent further deterioration. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
- Spalling or chipping brick surfaces
- Soft or crumbly areas when touched
- Visible mold or mildew on the brick
- Interior water stains that match exterior damage
- Bulging or leaning brick walls
- Efflorescence that reappears after cleaning
Talk to someone now
Call (617) 404-2753 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (617) 404-2753Frequently asked questions
How soon after a storm should I check my brick exterior?
Check as soon as it is safe to go outside. The longer water sits in cracks or behind brick, the more damage it can do. Look for new cracks or stains within a day or two, and take photos to document what you see.
Can I repair hairline cracks in brick myself?
Hairline cracks can sometimes be sealed with a masonry caulk, but you need to know why the crack formed. If it is from settling or water pressure, sealing it may not fix the underlying issue. A pro can tell you if the crack is a sign of bigger trouble.
What does efflorescence mean for my brick?
Efflorescence is a sign that water is moving through the brick. It is not harmful by itself, but it points to moisture problems that can cause spalling or freeze damage. If you keep seeing it after cleaning, you need to find and stop the water source.