What Causes Stem Wall Failure?
As with any other common metals, they can get corroded or oxidized after being overexposed to water. In this case, there was no constant rain, but there is a faucet very close to the concrete stem wall foundation, and with constant exposure, the stem wall started to fail and get damaged by corrosion.
Signs of Stem Wall Failure: Horizontal Cracks
Horizontal cracks are clear signs that the corrosion problem began in the rebar and then spread to the rest of the stem wall.
Signs of Stem Wall Failure: Vertical Cracks
On the other hand, vertical cracks mean the oxidation problem began in the tie-down straps and then spread to the rest of the stem wall.
Signs of Stem Wall Failure: Flaking Paint
Flaking paint is the most confusing of all the symptoms of a failing stem wall because most people blame other factors for the flaking, such as sunlight and time.
Signs of Stem Wall Failure: Spalling Concrete
Spalling concrete is the last and the worst of all the stem wall symptoms because when the stem wall vet to this point, it means most of the stem wall elements will need to get replaced.
Stem Wall Repair Process: Protecting is Caring
Plastic sheets help our concrete repair crew protect the surroundings from any unfortunate event.
Stem Wall Repair Process: Concrete Removal
Stage of the process, our team removes the concrete to reveal the stem wall elements. We then carefully evaluate each element to determine which ones require removal.
After Stem Wall Repair
The stem wall in the image looks new, even, and primed for a fresh coat of paint. The homeowner can rest easy knowing that the corrosion problems have been resolved.