Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 11/11/2008

Question
Hi Bruce:

I am looking at purchasing a 40 year old brick exterior home.  I have noticed cracks outside in the brick and mortar in a  zig-zag fashion leading into the top corners of some large windows?  Is this settling or some other problem?  I cannot see any cracks continuing down to or through the slab.  Any ideas?

Thank you,

Charles

Answer
Hi Charles, in a forty year old house you should expect some cracks somewhere.  The fact that they are at the corners of large windows is fairly common.  These larger openings have a tendency to move laterally over time as compared to a solid wall with no openings.  If there are no other signs of settling such as doors not closing properly, windows not opening or closing properly then you are probably okay.  These cracks should however be pointed up and patched as soon as possible.  This will keep water from getting inside the cracks and causing more problems later. I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com