How Much Does Brick Wall Repair Cost in 2025?
Brick wall repair costs an average of $1,660. Most homeowners spend between $778 and $2,599, depending on the extent and type of damage.
The average cost of brick wall repair ranges between $778 and $2,599, with most costing an average of $1,660.
The total cost is influenced by the brick type, extent of damage, repair type, and wall size.
Masons typically charge between $20 and $40 per square foot or $40 to $75 per hour.
Repair costs vary significantly depending on the type of damage, with simple mortar repairs being the least costly.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Whether it graces the entire exterior of your home or adds charm as an accent wall, brick offers a timeless and durable option. With proper maintenance, brick walls can last over a century. Repairing your brick wall not only preserves its classic look but also extends its lifespan. On average, brick wall repairs cost $1,660, with most homeowners paying between $778 and $2,599. The final cost depends on factors like location, wall size, brick quality, and the extent of the damage.
Brick and Masonry Repair Cost Factors
Several factors influence the cost of brick and masonry repairs, including the type of brick, extent of damage, wall size and type, and labor rates.
Brick Type
The type of brick significantly impacts repair costs. Standard red bricks cost around $0.40 each, while rare or antique bricks can be up to $10 per brick. Opting for non-standard bricks or intricate brickwork can increase both material and labor costs, potentially adding up to 50% more due to the time and skill required for detailed work.
Extent of Damage
How much damage the wall exhibits impacts how much you'll pay to fix it. For example, repointing or tuckpointing a few square feet of wall costs significantly less than installing anchors and fixing foundation damage. Sealing, pressure washing, and adding flashing can also increase material and labor costs.
Wall Size
The size of your wall plays a significant role in the repair cost. Masons typically charge between $20 and $40 per square foot, depending on the damage. For a 100-square-foot wall, you can expect to pay between $2,000 and $4,000 for repairs.
| Wall Square Footage | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 50 | $1,000–$2,000 |
| 100 | $2,000–$4,000 |
| 200 | $4,000–$8,000 |
| 300 | $6,000–$12,000 |
Wall Type
Repair costs also depend on the type of wall that’s damaged. Accent or decorative brick walls cost between $5 and $30 per square foot, while load-bearing walls can run up to $500 per square foot. The cost of retaining walls or load-bearing walls often includes foundation work and reinforcement, resulting in higher prices.
| Wall Type | Average Cost per Sq. Ft. |
|---|---|
| Retaining | $15–$150 |
| Load-bearing | $200–$500 |
| Accent or decorative | $5–$30 |
Labor
Experienced local bricklayers charge between $40 and $75 per hour, or a flat rate of $1,000 to $2,500 for the project. Their skill and expertise make up a significant portion of the repair cost. If the work is above 10 feet and requires equipment like scaffolding, labor costs may increase by 50% to 100% due to the additional time and safety measures.
Cost by Repair Type
The specific type of repair needed significantly affects the overall cost. Minor mortar repairs might cost as little as $3 per square foot, while a comprehensive restoration could exceed $20,000, depending on the extent of the damage.
| Repair Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Bowing | $7,500–$40,000 per 100 sq. ft. |
| Brick mortar | $10–$20 per sq. ft. |
| Brick porch | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Brick step | $300–$750 per step |
| Spalling | $900–$20,000 |
| Restoration | $5,000–$20,000+ |
| Cracks | $500–$1,000 |
| Mailbox | $500–$750 |
| Chimney | $175–$1,500 |
| Brick lintel | $500–$700 |
| Brick veneer | $11–$24 per sq. ft. |
Bowing Brick Wall Repair Cost
Repairing a bowing brick wall can be expensive, ranging from $7,500 to $40,000 per 100 square feet. Factors like water damage, poor construction, age, and inadequate maintenance can cause bricks to bow. The total cost depends on the severity of the damage and the required repair methods.
If you have large trees too close to the wall, the tree roots’ pressure may cause the bowing, so removing the tree can remediate the issue. Tree removal costs between $400 and $1,200 per tree.
If leaking gutters cause water damage, you'll likely need the wall repointed and may also require wall anchors. One anchor is required per five feet of foundation or basement wall, which costs between $400 and $900 per anchor. Gutter problems or a lack of grading commonly cause these problems but can be avoided relatively inexpensively.
Consider that gutter cleaning costs $120 to $225, while the cost to level or grade a yard is around $3,000, which is far less expensive than the cost of foundation repairs. Compare that to the cost of installing wall anchors across just 50 feet of wall, which would set you back up to $9,000.
Brick Mortar Repair Cost
Mortar repair costs $10 to $20 per square foot. For a typical 20-square-foot wall, the cost would be roughly $300–$500. It includes removing old, cracked mortar and filling in the spots with new mortar, either using a tuckpointing or repointing technique. Tuckpointing uses the same color mortar as the old brick, then a small groove of light-colored mortar or filler to give the illusion of tight lines. Repointing simply fills in the old gaps of removed mortar.
Brick Porch Repair Cost
Repairing a brick porch costs around $2,250, assuming a moderate repair that requires repointing or tuckpointing, some patching and fixing of cracks, and replacing some areas of brickwork. Replacing bricks costs around $10 to $30 per square foot, and replacing a 100-square-foot porch with a new brick of the same size will run you between $3,500 and $8,000.
Brick Step Repair
Repairing brick steps averages about $525 per step, with costs ranging from $300 to $750 each. Leveling sunken steps—also known as mud jacking—costs between $200 and $400 per step. If you need to replace an entire stoop with up to five steps, anticipate spending between $1,500 and $4,400.
Spalling Brick Repair
For spalling brick repair, expect to pay between $900 and $20,000. The term “spalling” describes the crumbly, flaked, and pitted appearance it gets after years in climates with freeze-thaw cycles, improper installation, nonbreathable sealants, or high-pressure water cleaning.
Repairs include removing and replacing all spalling bricks. While many jobs require only removing and replacing a few individual pieces, large jobs might require rebuilding entire sections of the wall.
Brick Restoration
Full brick restoration costs anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the project size. It includes restoring any spalling or cracks and replacing them as needed.
Most restoration projects occur in historic homes. Unlike simple repairs, restoration focuses on matching the new work to the look and texture of the original installation.
Brick Foundation & Wall Crack Repair
Foundation crack repair costs $250 to $800 for minor problems. Major repairs can run $2,000 to $10,000 or more. Cracks larger than 1/8-inch may indicate structural issues. For large cracks, contact a structural engineer or a local foundation repair contractor.
Exterior walls above grade cost less, depending on how high the mason must work off the ground. Average prices include:
One-story home: $450–$650
Two-story home: $650–$850
Three-story home: $1,000+
10% to 25% more for repairs done above 10 feet
Brick Mailbox Repair
Major brick mailbox repairs cost $500 to $750. Minor cracks may run half that. You’ll find most of the same problems with your mailbox as with a wall, fence, or chimney unless someone hits it with a car. In most cases, you’re looking at repairing spalling or mortar.
Brick Chimney Repair
Brick chimney repair costs $175 to $1,500, depending on the damage and how accessible the chimney is. Chimney work can be challenging due to height and safety considerations, requiring extra time for setting up equipment and completing the repairs, especially if parts need to be removed.
Brick Lintel Repair
Lintel repair typically costs $500 to $700 for a window lintel. However, a garage door lintel is more costly, at $1,000 to $5,000. Lintels are essential structural supports that go above doors and windows.
Brick Veneer Repair
It costs between $11 and $24 per square foot to repair brick veneer, including replacing broken or damaged pieces. However, if the veneer only needs repointing, you'll pay $3 to $20 per square foot. Replacing brick veneer is less costly than replacing solid face bricks, which can cost up to $40 per square foot.
Brick Wall Repair vs. Replacement
Before starting your project, consider whether repair or replacement is the best option. If the wall is deteriorating or severely damaged, replacement may be more cost-effective in the long run. On average, the cost to install a brick wall is $5,000. The average cost to install a cinder block wall is slightly lower, at $3,200. You’ll also have to account for removal and disposal fees for the existing structure. Replacing the wall ensures that it is structurally sound and reduces the chance of costly future repairs.
If the damage is minor, repair is likely the best option. While prices vary depending on the extent and type of damage, you’ll often pay significantly less than replacement.
Budgeting for Brick Wall Repair
Brick wall repair costs can vary widely, but there are ways to save money without compromising quality:
Use salvaged or reclaimed bricks to reduce material costs.
Gather multiple quotes from masons to find the best price.
Choose standard red bricks instead of ornate or patterned options to save on materials and labor.
Consider brick veneer repairs, which can be more affordable than full brick replacements.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. We surveyed thousands of real customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Minor hairline cracks in mortar are normal as bricks settle over time. However, deep vertical cracks that widen, stair-step cracks, L-shaped cracks, or extensive horizontal fissures may indicate potential foundation issues. Since mortar doesn't last as long as brick—which can endure for over a century with proper maintenance—it's important to have any concerning cracks inspected by a mason to ensure your home's structural integrity.
Cleaning mortar off bricks removes old stains and debris, ensuring that new mortar adheres properly and lasts longer. Eliminating dust, moss, and lichen helps achieve a strong bond during repointing or mortar application. Professionals typically use a wire brush or pressure washer to clean the surfaces, depending on the level of contamination. If bricks are being completely replaced, cleaning the old material isn't necessary.
With proper care, brick walls can last over 100 years. Regular maintenance, such as repointing mortar every 30 to 50 years, helps preserve the wall's durability and appearance. Consistent upkeep and routine inspections ensure your brick wall remains a strong and valuable part of your home for generations.
If you want to avoid the high expenses of full brick wall restoration, installing fiber cement siding is a viable alternative. Fiber cement siding offers lasting durability and low maintenance while enhancing energy efficiency. This option costs $2 to $6 per square foot and, when installed by a professional, protects against water damage and improves your home’s exterior appearance.
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