What it is: Mortar joints in block or brick are cracked, crumbling, or missing.
Why it matters
Failing mortar allows water entry and weakens the structural integrity of the wall.
Why it's common in Bloomington
Block foundations and brick chimneys across Bloomington suffer mortar loss from decades of freeze-thaw.
Signs to watch for
- crumbling mortar between blocks
- gaps in joints
- loose or spalling brick
What we check during the inspection
The inspector examines accessible masonry joints for deterioration and water staining.
How it's typically corrected
A mason tuckpoints the deteriorated joints with fresh mortar.
Concerned about mortar joint deterioration in a home you're buying or selling? Get a free instant quote and we'll evaluate it as part of a full inspection.