You've found the perfect house: the right size, dream kitchen, and ideal neighborhood. It's everything you've been looking for! But wait, there's a crack in the foundation! How could this be? On the perfect house? Should you walk away? Not necessarily. Let's explore what this crack might be:
What is a Corner Pop?
The picture above displays a common issue called a corner pop. This occurs when the brick veneer on a foundation expands and contracts due to temperature fluctuations. The concrete foundation also shrinks slightly as it dries. These opposing forces, held together by mortar, cause the concrete at the corners to crack.
Should You Worry About Corner Pops?
Generally, corner pops are not a major concern and don't indicate a structural weakness in the foundation. While they may look alarming, they often arise from specific material properties and normal settling processes.
However, it's crucial to have a professional inspection to assess the severity of the crack and identify any underlying issues. They can determine if the crack is simply cosmetic or requires further action.
So, when you find that “Perfect” house and then a few “Imperfections” pop out at you... you can take a closer look and breathe easy.
(Remember: This article is just for informational purposes only and not to be used as part of/to replace an actual inspection.)
Contributed By:
Shawn Cook TREC #21162
Central Texas PHI, PLLC
512.864.4072