Bulging Wall Repair in Montréal (Ventre de Bœuf)

A bulging wall is a deformation where the brick face curves or bows outward instead of sitting flat and plumb with the rest of the facade. It happens when the brick veneer loses its connection to the wood or concrete structure behind it, often due to water infiltration, rusted ties, or freeze‑thaw damage.

What Is a Bulging Brick Wall?

In Montréal, this problem is common on older brick buildings where water has been getting behind the wall for years, slowly pushing the masonry away from the building.

Common Signs of Bulging Walls

Owners often call us when they see

• A visible outward curve or “belly” in part of the brick wall.

• Cracks around windows, doors, or in the mortar joints near the bulge.

• Gaps between brick and window frames, or bricks that sound hollow when tapped.

• Water infiltration on the interior side of the wall, especially after heavy rain.

Because Montréal’s freeze‑thaw cycles expand trapped water behind the brick, delaying repairs usually makes the bulge worse and increases the repair cost.

Our Bulging Wall Repair Approach

Bulging wall repair is structural work and must be handled methodically to be safe and durable. Our team follows a step‑by‑step process tailored to each building.

Inspection and Diagnosis

We start with a detailed inspection of the affected wall, including the brick, mortar, support structure, and any visible drainage or flashing issues. We identify the extent of detachment, check for rusted anchors, and look for underlying problems like water ingress or foundation movement.

Safe Dismantling of the Bulging Area

To correct a true bulge, the only durable solution is to dismantle the affected area over its full width and height, not just patch the surface. We carefully remove bricks, store reusable units, and expose the structural backup wall so we can correct any defects behind the veneer.

Structural Anchors and Corrections

• Install new galvanized masonry anchors to firmly tie the veneer back to the structure.

• Address moisture issues by improving weep holes, flashing, or drainage where needed.

• Replace any severely damaged sheathing or framing in coordination with other trades if required.

These steps stabilize the wall and help prevent the same problem from returning.

Rebuilding with Matching Brick and Mortar

We rebuild the wall using sound existing brick where possible and compatible replacement bricks where needed to match color and size. Mortar mixes are chosen to be compatible with the original masonry, avoiding overly hard mixes that can damage older softer bricks. Joints are repointed and tooling is matched so the repaired section blends in with the rest of the facade.

Short Term Stabilization vs Long Term Repair

In some cases, temporary steel plates or exterior anchors can be installed to stabilize a bulging wall in the short term. This can slow movement and buy time, but the most reliable long‑term solution is partial dismantling and reconstruction of the affected area with proper anchors and moisture control

Service Area and Free Estimate

We provide bulging wall inspection and repair services across the Greater Montréal area, including Côte‑des‑Neiges, NDG, Westmount, Outremont, Plateau‑Mont‑Royal, Ville‑Marie, and surrounding neighborhoods. If you suspect a bulging or bowing brick wall on your property, contact Longfield Masonry for a structured inspection and a clear, written repair proposal.

Longfield masonry, 5220 Queen mary rd, (438)-861-9115

Masonry contractor in Montréal specializing in brick, stone, and chimney repairs, historic restoration, and custom masonry.