Deteriorated Brick or Block - Look primarily for damage caused from cycles of freezing/thawing. Typically spalling (the deterioration of masonry surfaces) is found in older structures, parapets, freestanding and retaining walls. Isolated spalling at lintels or shelf angles is extremely important to inspect as well, since it may indicate a more serious problem

Cracked Masonry - One of the principal causes of cracking in masonry walls is differential movement. The failure of a wall to accommodate this movement over large areas of brick or block can cause vertical cracks. Horizontal and diagonal cracks are usually created when wall openings (windows, doors, etc.) inadequately distribute the wall's weight load. Other more complex causes related to thermal movement, corroded metal wall components and moisture penetration into the wall can produce cracked masonry.

Deteriorated Mortar - Slight surface scaling of old mortar is not uncommon and not objectionable, provided it does not occur too deeply. Check the mortar for cracks, crumbling, erosion more than 1/4" back from the original depth, or missing portions.

Extensive Loss of Bond Between Brick and Mortar - Normally recognized by a slight opening similar to a crack, this defect can be caused by hard, low-suction brick and high-cement content mortars or by the improper tooling of the mortar during the original construction.

Exterior Masonry Moving Away from Structure - Inadequate lateral support of masonry coupled with masonry growth and frame movement, particularly roof slabs and exposed columns, create this condition. It most commonly occurs in masonry panels where the backup is not tied into adjacent columns. This may happen where vertical strip windows prevent contact with the walls or on a framing system where the columns are held back from the outside wall.

Sealant Failure - Good sealants can expand and contract up to 200% in a laboratory before bond or internal failure occurs. In actual application differential movement, as well as exposure to ultra-violet light from the sun (particularly on south and west building elevations) can accelerate the deterioration of sealants. Joints that are improperly prepared will also hasten this weakening. Cracks, tears, compression, and bond separation will occur around windows and doors, in addition to expansion and control joints.

Efflorescence - Seen as the white film on the face of masonry, efflorescence results from excessive moisture or rainwater being absorbed into walls. As the moisture evaporates the salts within the masonry are carried through and left on wall face. Although unsightly, this film is not generally harmful to the masonry, but the fact that the wall is taking on excess moisture is a condition that should be corrected.