Stone Block Foundation

Stone Block Foundation Features

• A stone block foundation consists of individual stone blocks stacked and arrange around the bottom of the house. The stones vary in size from 1-inch thick to several inches thick, and the length of the stones also varies. On older homes, the designer stacked the stone blocks together without the aid of any mortar or concrete. You might find that a later homeowner added concrete or mortar, painting the concrete over the surface of the stones. The stones should have limited space in between each block.

Considerations

• Some designers and home builders use concrete blocks to recreate the look of a stone block foundation, breaking the concrete into different size pieces and chunks before stacking the pieces as the foundation. If you are uncertain of your foundation’s material, get as close to the foundation as possible. Examine the surface of the stones. True stones have a smooth surface, while concrete stones have a porous or slightly bumpy surface.

Foundation Coverings

• Sometimes a homeowner covers the blocks with a layer of concrete or stucco on the outside of the stones. The mixture completely coats the edges of each stone, making it look like you have a solid poured concrete foundation. Often the stucco or concrete starts peeling away from the stone, especially if air bubbles or moisture get behind the material. You can also identify the foundation by tapping on the outside. If you hear any hollow spots behind the covering, it indicates a brick or stone foundation.

Stone Veneers

• A stone veneer creates the look of a stone foundation without replacing the foundation completely. The veneer consists of individual stones approximately 1/2-inch thick or thinner. You apply mortar to the foundation and press the stones against the mortar. A second coat of mortar applied over the top keeps the stones from slipping or sliding. The stone veneer covers the existing foundation, giving it the look of a pure stone foundation, but without damaging the original materials.