The foundation of a building is the anchor to the earth. Older buildings may have foundations of stone, brick, concrete or wood.

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Important Considerations for Foundations:

• Water infiltration in older foundations may show up as damp air, wet floors or efflorescence (white stains) on the structure;
• Spalling - water soaked masonry that goes through freeze /thaw cycle may deteriorate to the point of cracking, with pieces falling off.
  
• Joints between bricks or stones may require re-pointing to replace mortar - watch for telltale piles of sand around the bottom of masonry walls;
• Wherever wood elements touch stone, brick or concrete, the foundation and floor system should be carefully inspected for signs of rot.
  
• Movement / shifting may occur in older foundations because of water pressure, mortar failure and environmental changes. Cracks and distorted surfaces may be a sign of foundation movement.
• Cracks and failure of parging layer on the exterior of the foundation.