How to Detect Problems With Brick Foundations

Walk around the home's exterior to inspect the outside of the foundation for visible signs of damage. Move plants and shrubs aside if possible to get a clear view of the foundation to inspect for cracks or loose bricks.

Inspect the interior of the foundation from the basement or crawl space in the home. Look at the foundation walls from top to bottom for signs of problems.

Note any cracking in the mortar or in the bricks. Pay particular attention to stair-step cracking that crosses bricks, horizontal cracking or wide cracks in the mortar and brick. These types of cracks are most likely to be associated with serious foundation problems.

Look for bricks that are bulging or loose in the foundation wall. Stand along the wall to look for a bulge in the entire brick wall, as well as individual bricks that are popped out of place.

Inspect the foundation for missing mortar between the bricks. Missing mortar could indicate shifting of the wall.

Walk through the rest of the home to look for signs of a shifting of the brick foundation. Watch for separation of the side, gaps around window and door frames, gaps between walls and ceilings, bowed walls, cracked molding or doors that don't close properly.