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STRUCTURAL INSPECTION REPORT
April 10, 2020
PURPOSE: Inspection of the structural condition of the specific areas mentioned below of
the property listed.
CLIENT(s):
REPORT #: 20‐9562
SITE LOCATION: 1323 Cumberland
Little Rock, AR
LEGAL DESCRIPTION: Not given
TYPE OF BUILDING: Frame Home
SPECIFIC PROBLEMS
INSPECTED FOR:
Structural Evaluation
This is to certify that on April 9, 2020, a structural analysis of the specific areas addressed
above was made at the above address. The following shall be noted:
Structural:
We were asked to evaluate the structure of the home for general structural soundness.
Below are our findings and suggestions.
Perimeter cracking in bricks:
The right protruding room in the middle of the home has some minor settlement of the
piering. See pictures. NOTE that the brick walls between piers are curtain walls and not
structural. They were likely added later.
The settlement has not damaged or compromised the footer or foundation but has caused
some racking of the windows and some floor slope in this area. As the supporting
foundation moves differently, stresses are induced into the rigid foundation as the framing
can flex. The propensity of the subgrade soils to shrink/swell in response to moisture
fluctuations typically causes these issues. Moisture variations cause clays to expand and
contract more than other types of soils. Clays shrink as they dry, so in effect the soil outside
the footing settles faster than the soil around the home. Clays will also swell when they are
wet and the reverse will occur. Unfortunately clay soils are very prominent in these areas.
After thorough evaluation, it has been determined that the house is safe and no repair is
needed. Further cracking is possible, however in the event of further cracking, the structure
Hall Engineering Group, Ltd.
P.O. Box 241302, Little Rock, AR 72223
501.588.3355 office ‐ 501.400.7914 fax
www.hall‐engr.com ‐ Justin@hall‐engr.com
An unbiased engineering firm for all your construction needs
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of the home will still not be compromised. The soils in this corner of the home were most
likely disturbed from construction of the home (ie removal of a tree, etc) and those soils
have now compacted enough to limit future cracking. Sometimes soils can become overly
dry in the summer season and shrink under the footing. Footings in Arkansas are typically
only 18‐24” deep so moisture cycles (extremely wet to dry and repeat) can cause this
movement if both extremes occur close together.
No structural repairs or modifications are suggested or necessary for the home to remain
safe however some minor settlement over time is likely to be slow.
If desired, the slope and racked windows can be repaired removing the sunken piers and
replacing with new. You would have to replace approximately 4 piers.
Otherwise the remainder of the foundation appears healthy for this age home.
Water Control:
Because the movement of the foundation is related to moisture, it is HIGHLY suggested to
manage the water. It is strongly suggested that you extend your gutter downspouts at least
5 feet away from the home and in a direction that the water does not come back toward the
foundation.
Crawlspace:
The crawlspace was in above average condition. Piers were pointed due to some
degradation of mortar. Some addition repointing is suggested in 3‐5 years.
Installation of a vapor barrier is suggested.
See Appendix A for supporting pictures.
If you have any questions regarding this report, do not hesitate to contact us at
501.588.3355 or Info@hall‐engr.com.
___________________________________________
Justin W. Hall, PE #11050
Limitations:
Please read the inspection agreement on‐line at www.hall‐engr.com/agreement.pdf. By reviewing and making use of the inspection results
on the report, you legally consent to the inspection agreement and its terms. This structural inspection report for the subject building(s) is
prepared for the sole and exclusive use by the owner(s) or inspection purchasing agent. This structural inspection report may not be sold,
transferred or assigned to any other party without first contacting Hall Engineering, Ltd. Liability under this structural inspection report is
limited solely to the owner(s). Repairs per this report are for the sole and exclusive use of the individual or corporation who paid for the
report. Failure to obtain permission to use this report for any other purpose can be monetarily penalized.
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Appendix A – Supporting Pictures
Sunken piers indicated
Sunken piers indicated
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Sunken piers indicated
Curtain walls are not structural