1940's house. The ground level was about four feet from the ground. It had quite a bow in it. Protruding about six inches in the center. Any comments? Client took it pretty good though.
Originally Posted By: mcyr This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
This homebuyer is in for some repairs.
From the photo, I can see that this foundation has been around for a while and been bleeding water from the exterior soils for quite awhile.
It appears to me that the dirt backfill was not originally selected to be the best and pushing on the wall for some time. I would imagine that the drainage on the exterior is also a contributing factor and the bad drainage soils are just contributing to the problem.
Perimeter drainage tile, most likely is non-existent.
Unfortunately, the foundation will not be salvageable in whatever remedial action is taken.
Originally Posted By: lwillick This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Ben:
Looks also like probable freezing and hydraulic or expansion pressure pushing the wall at the point of least resistance which is in to the crawl space or basement area. Additionaly moisture can expand when frozen.
Originally Posted By: roconnor This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
A general rule of thumb is that if a wall is bowed out more than 1/6 the thickness [1-1/2" max regardless of height], or if there is a significant horizontal crack near mid height that it’s a significant concern.
Just my opinion and 2-nickels ... 
-- Robert O'Connor, PE
Eagle Engineering ?
Eagle Eye Inspections ?
NACHI Education Committee
I am absolutely amazed sometimes by how much thought goes into doing things wrong
I hope your client realizes what a major problem this is?
