Deteriorated Mortar on Foundation
Mortar between the bricks or blocks of the foundation wall is breaking down or crumbling, typically due to age, moisture exposure, or poor installation.
OccasionalPlan for itFoundation and crawl space
Why it matters
Deteriorated mortar weakens the structural integrity of the foundation wall, allowing moisture to penetrate, which can lead to further damage, including mold growth, erosion, or cracking.
How common is it?
Found in 10% of the homes HomeCloud evaluated, Sep 2025 to Oct 2026.
Counted by the finding's name on HomeCloud reports, so the true number can be a little higher.
How soon to fix it
HomeCloud reports list this as something to plan for rather than an emergency.
More foundation and structure resources
Foundation cracks: which ones to worry aboutHow to tell normal shrinkage cracks from settlement, track a crack over time and know when to call a structural engineer.Crawl space basics: moisture, vents and vapor barriersWhat a healthy crawl space looks like, vented vs. sealed crawl spaces, and where vapor barriers, dehumidifiers and encapsulation fit in.Termites when you're buying a homeWhat bait stations and drilled holes mean, how North Carolina's termite report works, what to ask the seller and what treatment involves.
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