Block Foundation Beam Reinforcement: What To Look For

by Tom Feiza April 2, 2018

Concrete-block, full-depth foundations can effectively create a basement space and support a home. However, block foundations are subject to cracking and horizontal movement if the surrounding soil drains poorly. Poor maintenance of grading, gutters and downspouts also can make basement walls move, and frost can push the walls inward. Be aware of local conditions and knowledgeable about construction or repair issues that can come up with block basements.

Check all exposed basement walls with a level to ensure they are plumb. Movement of more than ¾ inch in 4 feet vertically or horizontally, as well as horizontal and step cracks, can signal a serious inward movement problem. As the wall pushes in, the horizontal crack develops and then step cracks occur when the wall separates from the corner.

This problem often signals the need for inspection by a specialist.

One Common Repair Method 
How are displaced and cracked walls repaired? Interior steel braces with site-specific engineering are a common repair method where I live and work. Interior structural steel tubes are placed against a displaced wall and bolted to the joist framing. At the base, braces are bolted through the floor into the footings.


Beams are spaced at 36 to 48 inches and the gap to the wall is filled with cement grout. Cracked mortar joints are removed and re-pointed. Although this method does not straighten a wall, it restores structural integrity and prevents further movement.

When braces are placed on a beam end wall with joists parallel to the wall, the beams are attached to blocking between joists. The blocking is then extended back at least three joists to prevent them from twisting and moving horizontally.

Follow Up If You Spot These Conditions!
If you spot this type of repair during your inspection, suggest that the buyer obtain details from the seller about the engineering analysis and contracted repair. Often, there is a guarantee on the repair. When in doubt, recommend that the buyer obtain a specialty inspection.

When inspecting a block basement with interior braces, check for rusting or movement of the steel braces, fasteners and joist. Walls that have been braced should not move. Any new cracking in the mortar joints indicates ongoing movement since the repair, which could present a serious problem.


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