Examples of foundation in need of concrete repair

Wedge or corner cracks

Wedge cracks (also known as corner cracks) are usually formed within around 12-inches of the outside corners of the foundation.  When the brick veneer expands as it is heated by the sun, the brick slides on the foundation concrete. As it slides on the foundation surface, the brick pushes outward on the foundation. Even though this is a small friction load, it is enough to crack the concrete.

It is important that homeowners understand that these cracks are not indicative of poor foundation performance issue.

There is a circumstance where these cracks should be repaired: if the brick veneer above the crack begins to fracture and fail. If and when this happens, the wedge should be removed and the foundation corner reconstructed.

Exposed cable ends

Post-tensioned slab foundations have cables for reinforcement. Sometimes the ends of the cables may become exposed.

When this happens, the anchors that hold the cables in place can corrode. The corrosion can be prevented by covering the exposed cables with a non-shrink grout.