why poured concrete basement wall is layered?

**mikead** · 03-31-2008, 01:10 PM

Dear expert:
I am house hunting, and fell in love with this newly built 2-story single family house, with unfinished basement.
The basement wall is a concern (see attached picture). It's poured concrete, however looks like a three-layer cake. And the top layer has a darker color. Not surprisingly, the builder doesn't have any convincing explanations.
Can anyone advise what happened? Is this a serious issue?
Should I consider this house and pay for a home inspection at all?
BTW, the wall seems dry (there is a dehumidifier in the basement), and the dark layer doesn't seem to be caused by water damage, instead, it seems like a different type of concrete was used. I am from New Jersey.
Thanks a bunch!
Mike

**TomAnto** · 03-31-2008, 05:54 PM

Your picture did not attach. If you type in the link (http address) we may enter it manually to see it. It sounds like a cold joint that could have happened for any number of reasons but most likely from a significant delay in the concrete deliveries as the foundation was placed.

It depends on how much time elapsed but the joint could be a point of water intrusion in the future or it may not depending on the site conditions of the house. Water table, grading around the home, and exterior waterproofing may help mitigate the issue or exacerbate the problem.

More information is needed to make a good evaluation. If you are uncertain you should get it inspected.

**carlam** · 04-01-2008, 03:09 AM

There is something going on and the fact that the builder does not have much to say for it raises a red flag for me. I am also concerned that you sound like you would not even have a home inspection done if it were not for the wall issue. A home inspection should not be a consideration, but a must! Even new homes can have problems; like the wall. By all means have an inspection if you are considering this house.

**TomAnto** · 04-01-2008, 07:36 AM

Originally Posted by carlam

Even new homes can have problems; like the wall. By all means have an inspection if you are considering this house.

This is true of course. Look at the home inspector's report critically. Many of them only have a cursory understanding of building systems. 4 of the last 4 I have dealt with have gotten issues wrong or fabricated problems. I say it that way because they either knew it was wrong and reported it incorrectly or they were incompetent.

With that being said "Let the buyer beware" is the rule in real estate. Inspections are part of a buyer's due diligence. Generally, they are more knowledgeable than the average homeowner and are useful in evaluating a property. Their reports should not be intended as a tool or means for negotiation but as discovery. Negotiations could arise from findings in the report if an unknown issue is revealed.

Anyway, post a pic. We should be able to help.