Why Brick Walls Leak in Chicago Homes

Chicago is known for its beautiful brick homes and masonry buildings, but many property owners are surprised to learn that brick itself is not waterproof.

In fact, brick and mortar are naturally porous materials that absorb water. When masonry is exposed to Chicago’s harsh weather—including heavy rain, snow, and freeze-thaw cycles—water can eventually penetrate through the wall if the masonry is not properly protected.

At Roma Waterproofing Chicago, one of the most common problems we see is water leaking through exterior brick walls.

Common Reasons Brick Walls Start Leaking

Several issues can cause water to enter brick masonry walls over time.

1. Worn or Missing Mortar Joints

Mortar joints are often the first area to deteriorate. Over time, exposure to weather can cause mortar to crack or erode, allowing water to enter the wall system.

Repointing or sealing these areas is often necessary to prevent water intrusion.

2. Failed Caulking Around Windows and Doors

Openings such as windows, doors, and vents are common leak points. When the exterior caulking fails, water can travel behind the masonry and enter the building.

Professional-grade sealants from manufacturers like Sika are designed to provide long-lasting waterproof protection around these openings.

3. Highly Absorbent Brick

Some brick types—such as CMU / Block or Harvard brick—are more porous than others and can absorb significant amounts of water during heavy rainfall.

When this moisture enters the masonry, it can eventually migrate through the wall and appear on interior surfaces.

Applying a professional penetrating masonry water repellent helps reduce water absorption while still allowing the wall to breathe.

4. Freeze-Thaw Damage

Chicago’s winter climate creates ideal conditions for freeze-thaw cycles, where water inside the masonry freezes and expands.

Over time, this can cause:

• cracked brick

• deteriorating mortar

• spalling masonry

• water penetration through the wall

  
  

Proper masonry waterproofing helps reduce moisture absorption and protects the masonry from freeze-thaw damage.

Professional Brick Waterproofing in Chicago

At Roma Waterproofing, we apply penetrating masonry waterproofing systems from PROSOCO and Sika designed to protect brick without changing its appearance.

These professional-grade products:

• penetrate deep into the masonry

• reduce water absorption

• allow moisture vapor to escape

• protect brick from long-term water damage

  
  

This helps extend the life of the masonry while preventing leaks and interior moisture problems.

Schedule a Brick Waterproofing Inspection

If you are experiencing water leaking through brick walls in Chicago, it may be time to have your masonry professionally inspected.

Roma Waterproofing provides expert brick waterproofing and masonry sealing services throughout the Chicago area.

🌐 www.romawaterproofingchicago.com

📧 Kristi@romawaterproofingchicago.com