ASHI ASHI Foundations & Basements

Question 1

Which type of crack in a poured concrete foundation wall is most likely to indicate structural movement?

Accepted Answer

Horizontal crack near mid-height of the wall

Answer

Horizontal cracks near mid-height are caused by lateral soil pressure exceeding the wall's bending resistance, indicating structural failure.

Question 2

What does a stair-step crack in a block foundation wall most commonly indicate?

Accepted Answer

Differential settlement causing the wall to move along mortar joints

Answer

Stair-step cracks follow mortar joints and are a classic sign of differential settlement, where one part of the foundation moves more than an adjacent part.

Question 3

According to ASHI Standards of Practice, which of the following is within the scope of a foundation inspection?

Accepted Answer

Visually inspecting the accessible portions of the foundation

Answer

ASHI limits the inspection to visual examination of accessible areas; excavation, testing, and measuring below grade are outside the SOP scope.

Question 4

Efflorescence on basement walls is primarily a sign of:

Accepted Answer

Water moving through the masonry and depositing mineral salts

Answer

Efflorescence is the white mineral deposit left behind when water carrying dissolved salts migrates through the masonry and evaporates at the surface.

Question 5

What is the purpose of a footing drain (perimeter drain) around a foundation?

Accepted Answer

To collect and redirect groundwater away from the foundation before it can create hydrostatic pressure

Answer

Footing drains reduce hydrostatic pressure against foundation walls by collecting and channeling groundwater to daylight or a sump.

(ASHI) ASHI Certified Home Inspector Practice Test

(ASHI) ASHI Certified Home Inspector Practice Test

ASHI ASHI Foundations & Basements