Foundation Cracks: Types, Causes, and When to Seek Professional Repairs

A brand-new home with brand new problems, right? Actually, troubles with your foundation are usually not brand new.

Foundation cracks can be a major sign of a structural problem with your home. If not addressed immediately, they can basically turn your house into a big, massive pile of kindling.

And they’re not just a problem for your home. They’re also a problem for your wallet. Last year, homeowners spent an average of $6,000 on repairs. If left unattended, foundation cracks can foot you with an even bigger maintenance bill.

Foundation crack repairs are also not a task that you can take on without proper training or experience. The costs will likely outweigh any value you get out of the work.

If you’re noticing these types of cracks, it’s high time that you took care of them, but not necessarily with your own two hands. Learn about the different foundation crack types and when to get professional repairs below.

Identifying Your Foundation’s Cracks: What Type Could It Be?

Foundation cracks come in many shapes and sizes. Vertical, horizontal, stair-step, diagonal, and circular cracks are all indicators of damage to a home’s foundation.

Vertical and horizontal cracks generally appear in walls. Stair-step cracks usually crop up at corners. Larger, horizontal cracks can appear in the floor.

Commonly, these cracks are caused by a lack of proper footing support. As well as soil movement or foundation settlement.

The cause of any particular crack will depend on the environment, building materials, structure, and soil. Moisture is often the culprit, as water can seep into a crack and cause further damage.

Poor construction practices, shifting soils, and weak mortar can all contribute to foundation cracks.

It’s important to properly identify and address cracks as soon as possible to prevent worsening damage. If you notice any cracks in your home’s foundation, it’s a good idea to seek professional guidance. A structural engineer or a foundation repair expert can assess the damage and recommend the best way to address the cracks.

Professional repair services can be pricey, but they can save you money in the long run by helping to prevent further damage and costly repairs down the road.

What Causes Foundation Cracks and Why Should You Seek Professional Repairs?

Foundation cracks are common in many homes built on unstable ground. They can appear on both interior and exterior walls and range in severity.

The most common causes of foundation cracks are:

• Expansive soils
• Seismic activity
• Poor drainage
• Ground settlement
• Water infiltration

Soils expanding and contracting due to changes in moisture are the most common cause of structural cracks in foundations.

Seismic activity can come from man-made sources such as construction. It can also come from natural sources like earthquakes. Poor drainage can lead to hydrostatic pressure which compromises the structural integrity of the foundation.

Ground settlement can occur when the soil is wet and becomes more compact. Or when the foundation is not properly supported.

Water infiltration can cause foundation cracks due to poor drainage. A damaged irrigation system that is not properly maintained can also be a culprit.

It is important to seek professional repair from a foundation specialist when you notice any signs of foundation-related issues. They can provide the most effective and long-term solutions.

Search for Solutions: Should You DIY Foundation Repair or Seek Professional Help?

When determining whether to DIY or seek professional help, it is important to consider the severity of the crack and the cause.

For small cracks and minor issues, DIY repairs are an option. But if the cracks are excessive or growing, or are causing structural issues, then repairs should be handled by a professional.

If cracks are more than an eighth of an inch in width, it may be time to call in a professional for foundation repair. Repairing the cracks incorrectly can create even bigger issues and frequently requires professional attention.

In some cases, the foundation repair may need to go much deeper than the visible cracks, and professionals are the only ones qualified to do such jobs.

Homeowners should also consider hiring a professional if the source of the issue is unclear or complex. Professional repairs can provide more durable and sophisticated solutions than DIY methods.

Understanding the Seriousness of Foundation Cracks: When Is It Time to Call a Professional?

Foundation cracks pose a number of risks to the integrity of your home. The seriousness of cracks depends on the type, severity, and location. Foundation cracks can range from small surface cracks to wide separations in foundations walls or floors.

Foundation cracks can be caused by excessive weight loading, expansive soils, poorly compacted soils, inadequate drainage, unexpected underground activity, and improper construction, to name a few.

All types of foundation cracks are serious and should be checked out right away if you suspect an issue. As we said above, if a crack is wider than 1/8 inch, it’s recommended to seek professional repair.

Generally, the quicker a crack is addressed, the less severe repairs are necessary. A professional can determine if the crack requires waterproofing, further structural investigation or repair, or simply crack repair or stabilization with caulk or epoxy.

If you’re worried about the cost, keep in mind that certain types of foundation repairs are covered by insurance.

Protecting Your Home: Proactive Repair Tips to Prevent Further Foundation Damage

Proactive repair tips include monitoring and filling in small cracks with an elastomeric coating. You should also make sure your gutters and downspouts are working properly to prevent water pooling near your foundation.

Is water runoff directed straight at your foundations? If yes, you should look at modifying the soil around your home to prevent water buildup. Swales and French drains are two possible solutions.

Pay attention to signs that you may need repairs. Such as subflooring that has uneven heaving and significant tilting or signs of water ponding.

Additionally, you should regularly inspect your foundation walls for any cracks or shifts in your home.

Do You Need Professional Foundation Repairs Carried Out?

Foundation cracks can cause costly structural damage to your home. Knowing the types, causes, and when to seek professional repair can save you time and money in the long run. Don’t wait; if you see any signs of foundation cracks, contact a professional immediately to inspect your home and commence repairs if necessary.

Are foundation cracks keeping you up at night? We’re the people to speak to.

Contact us to schedule a free estimate.