Insulation can be added to reduce heat loss, by applying a rigid foam insulation board to the interior side. Besides the insulation value, the board can also be used as a base for plastering. Furring strips can also be applied to the inside wall to create an airspace into which insulation can be placed prior to installing the finishing wall panel. In some cases, unfortunately, the interior side of the masonry wall is left completely exposed, serving either as a decorative element or as a base for direct plastering. From an energy-conservation point of view, this is rather wasteful.
Because masonry walls are rigid, differential movement within the wall might cause serious cracking. Wall movement may be caused by unequal foundation settlement or expansion and contraction from temperature and humidity changes. Though many cracks are not of structural concern, they should be sealed nonetheless to eliminate the possibility of water penetration. If you have doubts regarding the severity of crack, have the condition checked by a professional.
One of the most common problems with masonry walls is efflorescence in the exterior surface, i.e. a deposit of soluble salts that were originally within the masonry, usually brought to the surface by water in the wall. Once the water evaporates, the salts are deposited on the surface.
Generally, efflorescence can be removed by scrubbing with a stiff brush or washing with a dilute solution of muriatic acid. If the condition is a recurring problem, however, it may indicate that water is penetrating the wall through cracks or faulty joints or flashing.
During a masonry wall inspection, pay particular attention to the joints around door and window frames. All joints should be weathertight. Check the corners of window or door openings for cracks, because these areas are of high stress concentration and are vulnerable to cracking.
If you find any cracked and chipped mortar joints or deteriorated masonry, record the condition on your worksheet for later correction. In addition, if you notice any bulging sections in the exterior walls or large cracked sections, have the condition checked by a professional because it might indicate structural problems.