Stem Wall Failure Symptoms: Flaking Paint
One of the most common signs is flacking paint, but many people think is because of sunlight or even aging.
Stem Wall Failure Symptoms: Horizontal Cracks
When it comes to a stem wall, every crack means something. In this case, Horizontal cracks mean the oxidation problem began in the rebar and then spread to the rest of the concrete stem wall.
Stem Wall Failure Symptoms: Vertical Concrete Cracks
On the other hand, Vertical cracks mean that the oxidation problem began in the tie-down straps and then spread to the rest of the stem wall components.
Stem Wall Failure Symptoms: Spalling Concrete
Spalling concrete is the last and the worst of the symptoms when a stem wall is failing. The reason is that when the stem wall gets to this point, it means most of the elements will need to get replaced.
After Stem Wall Repair
As shown in this picture, the stem wall looks fresh, and smooth, and is ready to get painted again.