Use of stone in construction dates back centuries to some of the earliest civilizations. Archeologists have found magnificent structures from the Maya, Aztek, Egyptian and Greek civilizations, most of which still stand today. This is one reason a masonry foundation remains the best choice for your home due to its durability.
If your home rests on a dressed stone or brick foundation it is time you learnt a few problems associated with this type of foundation. This ensures you call in an experienced foundation contractor before it is too late. Here are some of these issues:
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Vertical Corner Cracks
This is one of the most common problems that you will note, though it does not emanate from structural weakness in the foundation itself. This occurs due to shrinking and drying of the soil around your foundation, particularly during dry seasons when soil becomes desiccated as roots stretch downwards in search for water.
These cracks might appear insignificant, but they call for immediate repairs by a masonry foundation contractor. These experts have the tools to diagnose, recommend and then implement stabilizing repairs.
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Mortar Joint Cracks
This is a problem caused by lateral pressure against foundation walls. This is not to imply that your walls are weak, rather oversaturated soil around the foundation pushes beyond a straining point.
Again, an expert has to be called in to immediately stabilize or completely replace the wall depending on the level of damage. The trick here is to immediately notify these experts to ensure a timely radio is provided.
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Bowing and Bulging Wall
This is also as a result of lateral pressure caused by oversaturated soil pushing against the walls. However, this is a pointer to more intensified damage compared to mortar joint cracks. You need to call in a contractor immediately to install stabilizers as a more permanent solution is sought.
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Seepage Problems
The typical stone walls do not allow seepage, but the modern concrete masonry units (CMU) are more porous. The materials used in its construction, and the design itself, make the CMU block highly susceptible to leakage, which is risky in a foundation. This problem is also common if very old bricks were used in construction because these are most likely to be unfired clay bricks.
Caring for a masonry foundation need not be an arduous task. When these problems arise, an expert has to be called in.
These foundation experts have the capability to diagnose and propose underpinning solutions such as push piers and ECP tiers beneath your foundation. This assures enhanced life for your foundation.
