Block foundations are common in mid-century homes. They are strong in compression and weak sideways. Learn the signs of trouble.
Concrete block, or cinder block, was a favorite foundation material for decades because it is affordable and fast to lay. A block wall is a stack of hollow units joined with mortar. It carries the weight of the house well, but it is weak against sideways pressure from wet soil, and the mortar joints are the first place water finds its way in.
Signs of trouble are stair-step cracks, horizontal cracks near the middle of the wall, bowing, white mineral crust and damp floors along the base. Repairs can include repointing, sealing, carbon fiber straps, anchors, core filling and drainage. Often the right first step is to lower the water pressure behind the wall, because that is what pushed it.
Soil pressure is the risk.
Signs of movement.
Water enters first.
Hold bowing walls.
Tight joints.
Lower the pressure.
Bowing Wall RepairA basement wall that curves inward or tilts needs support before it moves further. We measure it and…Explore 
Wall Anchors and StrapsTwo ways to hold a basement wall in place: strong steel anchors tied to soil outside, or thin…Explore 
Block and Stem Wall RepairConcrete block and stem walls can crack, bow and crumble. We repair the wall, rebuild failed sections and…Explore 
Basement Leak RepairA leaking crack, joint or wall gets traced to its source and repaired, so the next storm is…Explore 
Interior Drain SystemsA drain along the inside of the footing catches water at the floor joint and carries it to…Explore 
Wall Sealing and CoatingsMasonry sealers and waterproof coatings reduce dampness through basement walls and make a brighter, healthier space.Explore Take the quiz, check a problem or ballpark a budget.
Which Foundation Service Do I Need? QuizAnswer five questions about what you see and where, and see the foundation services that fit best.Try it 
Foundation Crack CheckerPick the crack type, measure its width and tell us if it is changing to see how much attention it may need.Try it 
Foundation Repair Budget PlannerPick a project and a size and get a ballpark planning range.Try it Wet soil pushes sideways and the hollow block gives before poured concrete would.
Yes, with straps, anchors, repointing and drainage.
It is a sign of moisture that should be managed.
Material guidePoured Concrete FoundationsPoured concrete is strong, seamless and common in newer homes. Here is how it works, where it cracks…Learn more 
Material guideStone and Brick FoundationsStone and brick foundations carry many of Nashville older homes. Here is how they work and how to…Learn more 
Material guidePier and Beam FoundationsA pier and beam foundation lifts the house above the ground on posts. Learn how they work and…Learn more 
Material guideSteel and Helical PiersSteel piers carry sinking foundations to firm ground. Learn the differences between push piers and helical piers.Learn more Call us and we will visit, look closely at your foundation, crawl space or slab and give you a clear plan and a written scope.
