12/29/2025
What is the Freeze-Thaw Cycle?
In masonry, the freeze-thaw cycle refers to water seeping into the porous surface of brick. With lowering temperatures, the water freezes, causing it to expand. This puts pressure on the brick. As temperatures rise again, the ice melts and contracts. This repeated cycle of freezing and thawing can cause damage to your brickwork over time.
Effects of the Freeze-Thaw Cycle on Brick
There are a few types of damage that can occur due to the freeze-thaw cycle.
Cracking and Spalling occurs when water seeps into the pores of masonry materials. The expansion that occurs during freezing temperatures causes the material to be forced apart. Over time, this leads to larger cracks in brick and the outer layer of the material may begin to chip off.
Mortar binds bricks together. This portion of the masonry is weakened by the freeze-thaw cycle, causing crumbling. This breakdown of mortar can lead to gaps between bricks.
After many cracks and gaps have formed, water may begin to infiltrate the brick, leading to potential damage in insulation, interior walls, and foundations.
Overall, the freeze-thaw cycle weakens the integrity of your masonry by way of expansion and contraction of the water. This can lead to water being able to get through the brick and into the inner workings of your home.
Our area sees some of the most freeze thaw cycles on an annual basis! Around 50 each year!
