Whether it’s rain seeping in through tiny cracks or groundwater pushing its way through your foundation, water is one of the most subtle yet destructive forces that can affect a masonry structure. Without the right protection, even the strongest brick or stone walls can absorb moisture, leading to cracking, erosion, mold growth, and serious foundation problems. But here is some good news: most of this damage is completely avoidable. The solution? it doesn’t involve tearing your house apart or draining your savings.
So keep reading to learn what steps you can take to prevent your masonry structure from water damage.
One of the most effective ways to prevent water damage is to guide water “away” from your building. This section will cover how to control rainwater, surface runoff, and moisture buildup using proven drainage strategies.
Gutters and downspouts might seem simple, but they play a massive role in water management. If your gutters are clogged or your downspouts are discharging water too close to the foundation, you're setting the stage for serious problems.
These systems should be cleaned regularly and extended far enough from the house to direct water safely downhill. Even a small overflow during heavy rain can saturate the base of your walls and slowly degrade mortar and brick over time. Think of gutters as your masonry’s raincoat, they need to be in top shape.
The terrain around your home should never direct water toward your foundation. If the ground slopes inward, rainwater will naturally pool near the base of your masonry walls, exactly where you don’t want it. That trapped water doesn’t just increase moisture exposure; it also puts hydrostatic pressure on your foundation, which can lead to cracks or shifting over time.
A good landscape grade slopes at least 6 inches over 10 feet away from the building. Fixing grading might take effort or even excavation, but it’s a game-changer for long-term water control.
Weep holes are the small openings you often see near the bottom of brick walls. Their purpose? To give any moisture that sneaks behind the wall a way to escape. When these holes are blocked or absent, water can get trapped inside the cavity of your wall, leading to rot, mold, or freeze-thaw damage.
If your structure doesn’t have weep holes, or if they’ve been filled with paint, mortar, or debris, it’s important to clear or install them properly. These tiny gaps do a big job in keeping your walls dry inside and out.
If you’ve got chronic moisture around your foundation or you’re in a low-lying area, French drains are worth considering. These systems use a trench filled with gravel and a perforated pipe to collect groundwater and divert it away from your building. They’re especially useful when surface grading and gutters aren’t enough on their own.
While not a DIY-friendly project for most homeowners, a professionally installed French drain offers a long-term solution to stubborn drainage issues that threaten your masonry.
Even with proper drainage, masonry can still absorb water. That’s why applying the right sealants and waterproofing materials is essential for protecting your structure’s integrity.
Sealants are the first layer of defense on your exterior masonry walls. Unlike paint, which just coats the surface, a high-quality sealant penetrates into the brick or stone and forms a breathable barrier. This allows moisture from the inside to escape while preventing rainwater from soaking in. It’s critical to use products specifically designed for masonry, as the general-purpose sealants often don’t last long or may trap moisture, making things worse.
Following are some of the best and most effective sealants for masonry structures:
• Silane Sealants: Ideal for dense, low-porosity masonry like granite and smooth brick; penetrates deeply to block moisture while remaining breathable.
• Siloxane Sealants: Excellent for porous materials like brick and concrete block; protects against water while allowing trapped moisture to escape.
• Silane/Siloxane Blends: A balanced, go-to option for most residential masonry, offering both deep penetration and surface-level protection.
• Acrylic Sealants: A Good choice for decorative masonry or patios; provides light moisture resistance with a subtle finish.
• Epoxy Sealants: Strong and non-breathable, ideal for industrial applications or areas needing maximum protection from water and chemicals.
Reapplying sealants every few years, especially after harsh winters or exposure to heavy UV rays, is worth considering in the long run.
For walls facing frequent rain or areas below grade (like basement walls), standard sealants may not be enough. This is where waterproof coatings come in. These coatings form a tougher, thicker membrane that completely resists water penetration. They’re often elastomeric, meaning they flex with your walls and don’t crack easily under temperature shifts.
If your masonry is constantly exposed to water or you're dealing with a historic building with known moisture issues, these coatings provide peace of mind and solid protection.
Vapor barriers are critical in basements, crawl spaces, or any below-ground masonry areas. These barriers are installed on the interior side of walls or floors to stop ground moisture from migrating through the structure.
Without one, moisture can slowly seep through the foundation, leading to mold growth, musty odors, and damage to finishes or framing. A properly installed vapor barrier is invisible once complete, but it works 24/7 to protect your structure from rising damp and internal condensation.
Even the best drainage and waterproofing won’t last forever. Ongoing maintenance is what keeps your structure protected for the long haul, and it’s often the most overlooked step.
Set a reminder to inspect your masonry under the guidance of masonry experts at least twice a year, spring and fall are ideal. Look for cracks in the mortar, discoloration, flaking bricks (spalling), or damp patches. Catching problems early makes repairs quicker and cheaper and helps you avoid major structural issues.
Inspections are especially important after storms, freezing weather, or long rainy periods. You don’t need to be a pro but just get familiar with how your walls should look and trust your instincts when something seems off.
Over time, mortar between bricks wears out. When it starts to crumble, water can seep in through the joints and cause hidden damage.
Tuckpointing is the process of removing old, damaged mortar and replacing it with a new, water-resistant mix. This not only stops leaks but also reinforces the structural strength of the wall. It’s one of the most effective and lasting ways to protect your structure from water infiltration. To achieve the best and most durable results, it’s a job best left to skilled masonry contractors.
Flashing refers to thin sheets of metal or waterproof material installed at vulnerable points, like around doors, windows, chimneys, and where walls meet the roof. If it’s missing, loose, or poorly sealed, water can sneak in behind the wall and damage the interior framing.
Good flashing is like an insurance policy against leaks in high-risk areas. Check it during inspections and replace any sections that show signs of rust, gaps, or separation from the wall.
Moss mildew, and grime might seem harmless, but they trap water against your walls and over time they invite erosion. Keeping your masonry clean allows surfaces to breathe and dry quickly after rain.
A gentle power wash every year or two, followed by a reapplication of sealant, helps prolong the life of your walls and keeps them looking fresh. Just avoid harsh chemicals or high-pressure washers that could damage the mortar.
Cracks in bricks or mortar might not seem like a big deal, but they’re an open invitation for water to get in. When water enters a crack and freezes, it expands, making the problem worse. It’s a domino effect that starts small but ends in disaster. Whether it's caulking a gap or patching a damaged area, dealing with cracks early is much easier and cheaper than waiting for them to grow.
Water damage in masonry isn’t inevitable, it’s preventable. With smart drainage design, quality waterproofing, and regular maintenance, you can keep your brick or stone structure protected for decades. Don’t wait until water leaves its mark; act early, inspect often, and treat your masonry like the investment it truly is. For expert help in keeping your walls strong and beautiful, get in touch with us today.