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I've just noticed a cracked brick, and wondered if I could just replace it and do some repointing, or could suggest another problem?

The cracked brick appears to have a crack in the mortar moving diagonally up a 3 or 4 bricks to the right. I've included a photo and the brick I'm talking about is 3 bricks up from the left window sill and then 3 in.

My house was built in 1910, and has had its wall ties replaced in the late 70s.

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  • Sorry re-pointing not repainting! – reggie Sep 13 '16 at 11:21
  • It looks like there are a few areas that have been repaired in the past and some above the cracked brick need some work. It needs attention but I wouldn't think it is an emergency but should be fixed. A new brick would be the best way and while at it clean up and repoint the upper area. 4 bricks up after looking again. – Ed Beal Sep 13 '16 at 16:00
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I'm not a structual engineer but it's probably the foundation settling a little unevenly. If it was me, I wouldn't be concerned by the couple of cracks you have now but I would certainly keep an eye on it for new cracks, cracks growing longer and cracks going wider. I'd probably get a professional opinion if it got worse. Keep an eye out for interior cracks too.

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  • My understanding is that diagonal cracks usually are uneven settling. But don't take my word for it. – keshlam Dec 17 '16 at 22:11

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