Why do masonry porch columns crack or spall?
What causes masonry porch column to crack and spall?
Expert
Maestro
Spalling results from water absorption and subsequent freezing. Cracking can be caused by settlement, heaving, or freezing. Severe spalling or cracking will weaken the column. This could eventually lead to collapse.
It's common for brick and block columns to spall and lose mortar at ground level. Often the side of a masonry column most exposed to rain will suffer the most damage. Masonry will wick water up out of damp soil. This is called rising damp in some areas. The moisture will escape by evaporating off the surface of the masonry in warm weather, sometimes leaving efflorescence on the face of the column. In cold climates, the moisture will freeze in the masonry, leading to spalling.
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