Your home’s foundation is its most crucial structural component, supporting everything above it. While small cracks in the foundation are relatively common and often harmless, others can indicate serious problems that require immediate attention. Knowing how to identify and evaluate foundation cracks can save you time, money, and stress.
Here’s a guide to the types of foundation cracks, their implications, and when it’s time to call a professional.
Types of Foundation Cracks
Hairline Cracks
Description:
Thin, superficial cracks that are often less than 1/8 inch wide.
Cause:
Usually due to natural stress of the foundation as the home adjusts to its environment, or shrinkage of concrete as it cures.
Implications:
Typically not a concern if they don’t grow over time or allow water intrusion.
What to Do:
Monitor the crack for changes in size. If it remains stable, there’s no need for immediate action.
Vertical Cracks
Description:
Cracks that run straight up and down or slightly diagonal.
Cause:
Often caused by natural soil compaction or minor soil movement.
Implications:
Generally not a structural issue if they are narrow and not expanding.
What to Do:
Call a professional immediately. These cracks require reinforcement and potentially drainage improvements to alleviate external pressure.
Stair-Step Cracks
Description:
Cracks that follow the mortar joints of brick or block foundations, creating a stair-step pattern.
Cause:
Uneven settling or shifting of the foundation, often due to soil movement or water-related issues.
Implications:
Minor stair-step cracks may not be urgent, but wider gaps often signal foundation movement that needs attention.
What to Do:
Monitor for growth. If the cracks widen or are accompanied by other issues like doors sticking, call a pro.
Diagonal Cracks
Description:
Cracks that run diagonally, often from the corners of windows or doors.
Cause:
Uneven settling or shifting of the foundation, often exacerbated by poor drainage or expanding soils.
Implications:
Diagonal cracks may indicate stress in the foundation and require evaluation if they widen or spread.
What to Do:
Seek professional advice if they show signs of progression.
When to Worry About Foundation Cracks
While some cracks are benign, others signal serious structural concerns. Here are the warning signs that a crack may need immediate professional attention:
Cracks Wider than 1/4 Inch
Large cracks are often a sign of significant foundation movement or structural issues.
Cracks that Grow Over Time
If a crack expands in length or width, it indicates ongoing movement or stress on the foundation.
Water Intrusion
Cracks that allow water to seep into your basement can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and structural weakening.
Bowing or Leaning Walls
Horizontal or stair-step cracks combined with bowing walls indicate severe pressure on the foundation.
Sticky Doors and Windows
If cracks are accompanied by difficulty opening or closing doors and windows, the foundation may be shifting.
Uneven Floors
Sloping or uneven floors can signal foundation settlement or instability.
When to Call a Pro
If you notice any of the above warning signs, it’s time to call a foundation repair professional. They can assess the severity of the problem and recommend appropriate solutions, such as:
Crack Injection:
Filling cracks with epoxy or polyurethane to prevent water intrusion and reinforce the structure.
Wall Reinforcement:
Installing steel or carbon fiber strips to stabilize walls with horizontal cracks.
Drainage Solutions:
Improving exterior drainage to reduce soil pressure on the foundation.
Foundation Underpinning:
Adding support beneath the foundation to prevent further settling.
Why DIY Repairs Aren’t Enough
While sealing small cracks with store-bought products can be a temporary fix, they won’t address underlying structural issues. A professional inspection ensures that the root cause is identified and resolved, preventing further damage.
Protect Your Home with Forte Waterproofing
At Forte Waterproofing, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing all types of foundation cracks. Our team understands the unique challenges of homes in Northern Indiana and Southern Michigan, from freeze-thaw cycles to heavy rainfall.
Our services include:
- Crack inspection and repair
- Basement waterproofing
- Foundation reinforcement / repair / re-building
- Drainage system installation
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Foundation cracks can start small but quickly escalate into costly repairs if ignored. By addressing the issue early, you can protect your home’s structural integrity and maintain its value.
Contact Forte Waterproofing today for a free consultation and let us help you keep your foundation strong and your home safe.
