Fao: The Builder

[Dizmo]

Hi,

I'm sticking this in CB as it could end up going off topic.

I've considered using my lateral thinking with regards to working out whether or not part of the ground around the foundation of my house are moving; I've thought about putting masking take down the cracks in the plaster and then drawing a pencil line down each side of the masking tape edge.

Give the fact you're a builder, do you have any suggestions. I've only just noticed the 2 mm cracks forming town either side of the wall the RSJ is on. It's the alcove which and balcony roof which I think is coming away.

Any ideas?

[BRIGHT SPARK]

Diz.....stick a small piece of glass.... using epoxy resin,across the crack.Any future movement will soon be evident.

[Dizmo]

Nice idea, however I'm then going to have to get the resin off my wall. I need to know how much it's moving. If it moves enough to break the glass surely it won't give me an accurate result? I may be missing something though.

I do appreciate your input and it's one I never thought of.

[The Builder]

Diz, what BS is referring to is known as a "tell-tale"
Surveyors use them to detect movement. If the glass breaks after only a short time, then clearly movement is taking place. Further movement can be seen as the break in the glass widens.
Having said that, though, if it moves that quickly......... then it may be time to run!

Can you describe the location a little more? Does the beam span an opening through which you walk onto the balcony, or under it?

Does the beam run parallel to the balcony? I can't get the layout into my head.

[Dizmo]

Give me a couple of hours (busy at the moment) and I'll take photographs, I've not described it very well.

[Old_Geezer]

You may spot movement but I asked a question here a while back re cracks (which I've STILL not got someone to look at - in the Spring maybe) to be told it was more likely to be roof spread than foundation issues. I therefore conclude it's possible that a further movement may not be caused by what you think it is.

[The Builder]

Good point OG. Roof spread is far more common than foundation failure.
Much easier to correct as well.

[Dizmo]

I'd have to try and work out which was the crack was opening as well I suppose. As there is no real weight on the alcove and balcony it could mean the house is falling away from; instead of the balcony falling away from the house. I'll shurrup now until I get some photos!

[BRIGHT SPARK]

Diz......if the movement is that great you will have to search through the rubble to find the resin marks!!