Foundation Corner Chips

Foundation corner chips are fairly common where the foundation is supporting brick veneer along the edge of the foundation.  They look scarry but they are only a probable indicator of foundation movement.  Chips commonly occur because the brick supported by the foundation brick ledge applies a lateral load along the surface of the foundation toward the corner due to post construction expansion or differential settlement of the foundation along the mid wall.  This type of damage poses little concern in most cases and are typically considered a cosmetic defect.  If the crack extends below grade, they can provide a conduit for subterranean termites to access the structure without being visible and such cracks should be investigated by a pest control contractor who can make recommendations for treatment to prevent such an occurrence.