Defect type
Critical · 3–5/5
Cracking in Load-Bearing Masonry Wall
Diagonal or stepped cracking in load-bearing masonry walls indicating differential settlement or foundation movement, commonly found in older Perth and Sydney homes on reactive clay soils.
Causes
- Differential foundation settlement
- Reactive clay soil movement
- Inadequate footings for soil conditions
Symptoms to look for
- Stepped cracking along mortar joints
- Diagonal cracks radiating from window and door corners
- Misaligned door and window frames
Remedies
- Underpinning of affected footings
- Crack stitching with helical bars and repointing
- Foundation stabilisation via resin injection
Critical
Get an inspector through this property.
Findings in this category skew high severity. If you are under contract, we can usually book inside the cooling-off window. Every inspection includes 12 months of free advice.
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