There are several reasons why the mortar or cement might be falling from your walls here in WA. Firstly, if your home was constructed between 1980 and 1995, there is a strong chance that the cement was defective or that the bricklayer added detergent to the mix. Over time, moisture is drawn up through the bottom 6 or 7 courses, eventually causing the mortar to fall out. This condition is commonly known as fretting mortar.

In a word, yes! The mortar can be replaced. This involves removing any loose debris and then cleaning the area with water. The mortar is mixed at a ratio of 3 parts sand to 1 part cement. The tricky part is matching the mortar pointing as closely as possible, using various methods. These include blending cement and using oxides. The mortar is then inserted into the joint and troweled off. A joint to match the original is then used. Finally, the area is brushed and cleaned.

Yes, it indicates an underlying problem, such as water damage or poor construction. It is important to address this issue to prevent further damage, such as brick dislodgement.

This is a problem known as fretting or fretting bricks. Water, which has salt dissolved in it, passes through the brickwork to its surface, blowing the front (face) off the brick.

Small cracks are normal with settlement. Movement in the footings are the main causes of cracks in brick walls.

Yes, a crack can be stitched with the use of Helifix bars. The mortar is cut out from the joint to a depth of 30mm, then washed. Manufactured grout is then installed. A stainless steel bar is inserted into the grout and then repointed with a cement or lime mix to match the original.

Yes, they can.

Over time, steel lintels above your windows (if not treated) will corrode, expand and lift the brickwork above them. At this point, those lintels need to be replaced.