Signs of Stem Wall Failure: Vertical Cracks
When it comes to stem walls, every symptom means something, and in this case, vertical cracks mean the corrosion problem began in the tiedown straps and then spread to the rest of the stem wall.
Signs of Stem Wall Failure: Flaking Paint
Flaking paint is one of the most confusing symptoms when a stem wall is failing because most people blame sunlight and even time for the flaking.
Signs of Stem Wall Failure: Horizontal Cracks
On the other hand, horizontal concrete cracks mean quite the opposite. Horizontal cracks usually mean the corrosion began in the rebar and then spread to the rest of the stem wall.
Signs of Stem Wall Failure: Spalling Concrete
Spalling concrete is the last and the worst of all the symptoms because when the stem wall gets to this point, it means most of the stem wall elements will need to get replaced.
Causes of Corrosion in a Stem Wall
One of the main causes of corrosion in a stem wall is having plants right by the perimeter of the wall, which causes the soil to retain more water than usual, and eventually, oxidize the stem wall, along with its metal components.
Stem Wall Repair Procedure: Elements Replacement
One of the main causes of corrosion in a stem wall is having plants right by the perimeter of the wall, which causes the soil to retain more water than usual, and eventually, oxidize the stem wall, along with its metal components.
After the Stem Wall Repair Procedure
As you can see, the concrete stem wall looks, smooth, fresh, and ready to get painted again. Thanks to Arizona Foundation Solutions, this family will no longer have to worry about oxidation, threatening their home's concrete stem wall for a long time.