Thread: Brick pillars cracked and separating from porch

I have a house that the brick pillar is separating 3/4" from siding on the porch. Siding is plumb and lower portion of the colum is plumb. The upper portion of the column has major movement and separation from house. My question is how to report this and does anyone know what may have caused this.
I have pics but don't see a place to post them.

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Originally Posted by Randal Fry

I have a house that the brick pillar is separating 3/4" from siding on the porch. Siding is plumb and lower portion of the colum is plumb. The upper portion of the column has major movement and separation from house. My question is how to report this and does anyone know what may have caused this.
I have pics but don't see a place to post them.

Randal,

Masonry pillar at front porch is out of plumb and pulling away from the house. Further investigation by a structural engineer or other qualified professional is required to ascertain cause and repair before close of title. Implications - Failure of column, danger to residents/guests, damage to structure and finishes.

As to cause - failure of materials, footing, loading, insufficient size, amateur work..

Raymond,
Usually that type of pillar, masonry piers or column is to support the structural roof load above.
3/4" of a inch is not that much deviation IMO.

As for why the masonry / mortar components are degrading?
Head, bed and butt joint erosion is caused by water infiltration, live loading / vibration, and time itself.
A bad mortar batch usually speeds things up from the start.



Randal,
What is above the piers or columns. Rafters, a roof, or a porch?

To insert an image, go to the above menu.
menu.JPG
In the center row you see a square, 13th illustration from the right.
Click on it.
image menu.JPG
The above pops up.
You choose to upload an image from your computer or a URL.
Once your choose your image and it has uploaded, below choose "Upload your file."

Try it. Take your time.

Show us what the columns are supporting please.
If you can get an image of the masonry, I will try to provide some assistance, as will the other members.