How Do You Diagnose Foundation Cracks?

If you’ve ever seen a crack in your foundation wall, you know it can be intimidating. Not only do cracks make your home less attractive, but they can signal serious structural problems that must be addressed. Hence the question—how do you diagnose foundation cracks? Before any repair work begins or knowledgeable contractors or engineers make recommendations, the severity and type of crack must first be identified.

 

Identify the type of Foundation Crack

The discovery of a crack in your home’s foundation can be concerning, but identifying the type of crack is the crucial first step in determining the severity of the issue. Four main types of foundation cracks exist to look out for: horizontal, vertical, diagonal, and stair-step.

 

Horizontal Cracks: These cracks run parallel to the ground and are caused by hydrostatic pressure or heavy soil loads. They usually indicate that the soil around your house is putting too much pressure on the foundation walls, which can lead to significant damage and compromise the stability of the structure. Horizontal cracks are severe and require immediate attention from a professional.

 

Vertical Cracks: Vertical cracks, typically form due to the natural settling of a house’s foundation. They run up and down the center of a wall and are usually less severe than horizontal cracks. However, if you see a vertical crack that’s wider than ⅛ inch, it’s essential to have it inspected by a professional.

 

Diagonal Cracks: These cracks run at a 45-degree angle and usually occur in the corners of windows and doors. They are often caused by uneven settling of the foundation, shifting soil, or tree roots pushing against it. Diagonal cracks are moderate in severity but should still be evaluated by a professional.

 

Stair-Step Cracks: These cracks look like stairs caused by differential settlement between different foundation sections. They are more severe than the other cracks and can indicate a serious issue with the foundation. If you see a stair-step crack, call a foundation repair specialist to inspect it as soon as possible.

 

Identifying the type of foundation crack can help you to determine the next steps you need to take to ensure your home’s safety and long-term stability.

 

How to Analyze the Severity of the Foundation Crack

A foundation crack is a serious matter and should not be taken lightly. It is crucial to analyze the severity of the crack to determine if it is minor or major. A minor crack may not pose an immediate threat but still needs attention to prevent it from developing into something more severe. A major crack can compromise the structural integrity of your home and should be addressed immediately. Analyzing the severity of foundation cracks can include several steps.

 

• Determine the location and orientation of the crack: This is the first step in determining the severity of a crack. Cracks located at the corners or edges of walls may be more severe than those in the middle, as they can indicate shifting soil and other problems. Additionally, horizontal cracks across a wall are typically more severe than vertical or diagonal cracks.

 

• Measure the width and depth of the crack: You can use a ruler or measuring tape to determine the width and depth of the crack. A professional should inspect cracks that are wider than ⅛ inch, as they may indicate more significant structural damage.

 

• Assess the shape of the crack, including if it’s straight, jagged, or irregular: Jagged and irregular cracks are usually signs of more serious structural issues, such as shifting soil or hydrostatic pressure. However, it’s important to note that even small, straight cracks can indicate underlying problems.

 

• Check for any water infiltration or damage around the crack: Water infiltration is a common symptom of foundation cracks and can indicate more severe structural damage. If you notice any water seeping through or pooling around the crack, addressing it as soon as possible is essential.

 

• Consider the building type and age, as well as the condition of the surrounding soil: The building type, age, and condition of the surrounding soil can all impact the severity of a foundation crack. For example, older buildings may have more severe cracks due to years of settling. Additionally, sandy or loose soils can put additional stress on your foundation walls, leading to more significant damage.

 

A major crack can put your family’s safety at risk, making it imperative to take action immediately. Ignoring a foundation crack, regardless of its severity, can lead to expensive repairs and potential danger to you and your family.

 

Preventive Measures to Take Depending on Damage

Once you have identified the severity of the foundation crack, there are preventive measures you can take to prevent further damage and ensure the safety of your home.

 

• Repair minor cracks: Minor cracks typically do not require immediate attention; however, they should still be inspected by a professional to identify any underlying issues that could cause more extensive damage. You can fill some types of minor cracks with epoxy or sealant to prevent further damage. However, monitoring the crack and checking for any changes is essential.

 

• Repair major cracks: If you have a significant foundation crack, it’s vital to take action immediately to prevent further damage and ensure your family’s safety. A professional should be contacted immediately to assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action. This could include underpinning, installing a French drain, or replacing the foundation.

 

• Repair any drainage issues: Keeping an eye on drainage around your home is essential, as it can affect the condition of your foundation. Too wet soil can stress the walls and cause cracking – if you notice any drainage issues, such as pooling water, have them addressed immediately.

 

• Monitor surrounding vegetation: If you have trees or shrubs near the foundation, it’s essential to ensure they are not too close and their roots aren’t growing toward your foundation walls. Roots can cause pressure on the walls which can lead to cracking.

 

In conclusion, it’s crucial to identify the type of foundation crack and analyze its severity. It’s equally important to measure the size of the crack and compare it over time. Visible signs, such as water damage or mold growth near the crack, can also be warning signs that must be addressed. Lastly, looking for other visible signs of structural damage is key in addressing foundation problems and can help point toward a necessary course of repair action. Ultimately, consulting a professional and experienced foundation repair contractor is the best way to ensure your home’s foundation remains stable and secure for years. Don’t wait too long before making an appointment; any delay may worsen existing damage or create new issues as time passes. Taking preventive measures now will save you more money in the long run and guarantee that your home’s safety isn’t compromised!

 

Looking for a foundation repair contractor? We can help!

Level Pro Foundation Repair Inc
920 Murphy Road, Suite D, Stafford, Tx 77477
Phone: (832) 894-0781
https://www.levelprofoundationrepair.com/