FN-01 · Deputy, Indiana
Residential Foundation Assessment
Stair-step brick cracking and a sticking door after a wet season — settlement versus finish movement.
01
The Concern
The homeowner noticed stair-step cracks in the brick veneer and a door that had started to bind after a stretch of heavy rain. A contractor had already quoted helical piers.
02
The Inspection
Bob reviewed the interior and exterior foundation, crack width and direction, floor level, drainage at the footing, and how the veneer was detailed over the structure. He looked at whether the movement was in the finish, the foundation, or both.
03
The Finding
The pattern was consistent with moisture-related movement at the footing rather than a failed foundation wall. Interior finishes were largely intact. The structure was carrying load; the veneer was recording seasonal and drainage-related movement.
04
Recommendation
Correct the water at the foundation first. Monitor the cracks. Piers were not indicated based on what the structure was doing. A written letter documented the finding for the homeowner.
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