Foundation cracks are common in both old and new homes. If you notice certain signs on the foundation wall, it can be a cause for concern. Many factors can lead to cracks, such as soil movement, moisture fluctuations, and, the most common, temperature changes.
Addressing these cracks early can prevent further damage to your home. If you live in St. Louis or St. Charles, Ram Jack Foundation Repair is the best option for your home. However, you should understand when to worry and call a professional before taking action.
Types of Foundation Cracks
Before you worry about foundation cracks, it’s important to understand what kind you’re dealing with. You can then decide which cracks require professional handling and which you can handle independently. Some cracks are harmless, and some might require professional help. Here is a list of the most common types:
- Hairline Cracks
Hairline cracks are not that big of a deal; you can see them in newly built homes when concrete cures and settles. However, they might expand over time, so it is important to keep a check on the crack even if you are not immediately repairing it.
- Vertical Cracks
Vertical cracks can also occur in new homes, as they are the result of minor settling or shrinkage of concrete. These vertical cracks are straight up and down or at a slight angle. However, if they are wide, you can contact a professional; if they are not and are less than 1/8 inch wide, you usually don’t have to worry.
- Diagonal Cracks
Diagonal cracks are slanted on the foundation wall because one side of the foundation settles more than the other. If it’s a big crack, it can be a problem, and you need a professional to check it. However, if it’s smaller and narrow, it might not be a big problem.
- Horizontal Cracks
Horizontal cracks occur because of excessive pressure from soil or water against the foundation wall. It can lead to damage and foundational failure. Hence, it’s better to call a professional immediately if you notice a horizontal crack on the foundation wall.
- Stair-Step Cracks
Stair-step cracks look like staircases, and they’re along the joints between bricks or concrete blocks. They are usually not problematic if they’re small, but if they’re getting bigger or are already large, calling a professional to check is advisable because they can result from foundation settles or shifts.
When to Worry About Foundation Cracks
Not all foundation cracks require urgent professional attention, but it’s essential to recognize the ones that could indicate serious structural issues. Understanding when to be concerned can help you address potential problems before they escalate.
- Cracks wider than 1/4 inch
Cracks wider than 1/4 inch need attention because they can lead to structural damage.
- Expanding cracks
Some cracks are narrow and small, but they can get bigger over time, which could indicate ongoing foundation movement.
- Horizontal cracks
These cracks are concerning because they can show pressure against the foundation and potential failure.
- Water leakage
Cracks can lead to water leakage, and water can seep into your basement, which could be a sign of waterproofing and structural reinforcement.
- Doors and windows sticking
Sometimes, doors and windows won’t open or close easily, making them difficult to operate, which might indicate foundation movement.
- Uneven floors
A shift in foundation can also be seen in floors when they become sloppy or uneven.
- Bowing or bulging walls
You can suspect a problem in the foundation if your home’s walls are lean or bulging inward.
When to Call a Professional
As seen above, you should not worry about small cracks, but if they are large ones, you should find a foundation specialist or structural engineer and resolve the problems in your home. A professional can help fix your house; if there is some other problem, they can immediately resolve it with appropriate repair. Some potential solutions are:
- Carbon Fiber Reinforcement
Carbon fiber reinforcement is used to make the foundation walls stronger and help prevent further movement.
- Underpinning
Piers are installed beneath the foundation so that they stay stable and do not move. The process is called underpinning.
- Grading and Drainage Improvements
Sometimes, water leaks through foundation walls via cracks. Grading and drainage improvements help reduce the water pressure and redirect it.
- Wall Anchors or Braces
Wall anchors and braces help maintain the stability of bowing or shifting foundation walls.
Final Thoughts
Foundation cracks are common, even in newly built houses. However, people should not worry about foundation cracks without fully inspecting them. Small cracks are less of a concern, but if they’re bigger or growing, they can lead to damage. So, ask for professional help based on the type of crack in your home.
