ᐅ Basalt Stone Cracked – Should You Be Concerned?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to buy a house with a garden that is terraced using basalt stones.

During the viewing, I noticed one of the stones shown in the photos has a crack approximately 3.5 cm (1.4 inches) wide, essentially splitting it. I was told that basalt stone usually does not crack or break.

Therefore, I am asking you experienced experts whether this crack is a cause for concern or if it is purely cosmetic.

Thank you for your knowledge.

Best regards,
Fred

I would be extremely cautious when buying this. It could indicate underground utility tunnels. Who knows what might happen to the house afterward or what health issues could arise for people (illnesses, growing a third arm, etc.).

Sarcasm off!

This is just a damaged stone. Nothing more, nothing less. Moss also grows on stairs. This is not a defect to worry about.
Maybe the stone has always had a crack. Over several winters, water collected in the crack, froze, and caused the stone to break apart. Who knows?!

Thank you for the feedback, and it’s nice to see that sarcasm has its place as well 😉.

I’m aware that the question might have sounded a bit "odd," but as a non-expert, I genuinely wondered if it could have any significant impact.

It is best to consult an architect when buying a house, as they can professionally explain your various questions and provide a more reliable basis for your decision. The points you have mentioned so far are not relevant for the actual assessment of the building’s condition.

Fred schrieb:
could it have any serious impact?

A pretty silly question: What kind of impact do you expect from a broken brick?

The question is not silly but justified.

I have no idea whether the stone has a supporting function for the soil above and next to it and if it might become unstable due to the crack or shift sideways towards the house wall along the width of the crack, causing stones there to press against the facade.

From the answers so far, however, I gather that this does not seem to be the case.

In any case, thanks for your feedback.