Are Cracks in Basement Walls a Serious Problem?
Unless you purchased a freshly built house, chances are that there are cracks somewhere in the walls of your home. As a homeowner, you may have accepted these cracks as “normal” and not pay them any mind. Depending on where they are in your home, they could be a symptom of a larger problem at play. For instance, cracks in your basement walls or foundation walls can be an indication that there is something structurally wrong with the foundation. Continue reading to learn more about cracks in basement walls and what to do about them.
What causes cracks in basement walls?
- Poor drainage around the foundation. Water is the cause of most foundation issues. It’s a formula for disaster if there’s too much or too little of it in the soil around your foundation. Hydrostatic pressure can build up in the earth and press against foundation walls due to poor drainage around the foundation. The walls will soon begin to bow inward and crack if the strain is not eased.
- Expansive soil. There’s a lot of clay in this soil. It poses construction issues since it absorbs a lot of moisture and then shrinks by the same amount as it dries out. Soil movement occurs as a result, which might lead to structural issues.
- Weather changes. A house built during the dry season on top of expanding soil is one example of this. When the rainy season approaches, the soil swells dramatically, causing damage to the foundation of the house.
- Soil creep. Over time, soil creep can cause foundation difficulties in homes built on slopes. When the soil from the top of a hill ultimately makes its way down the hill, this is what happens. A foundation can shift laterally due to soil creep.
- Soil that wasn’t adequately compacted before construction. If the soil underneath the house wasn’t properly compacted before construction, then the heavy structure on top can unevenly sink into the ground. This will cause foundation damage.
Structural Cracks and When to Worry
When we’re talking about basement wall cracks, we’re talking about cracks in poured concrete walls and concrete block foundation walls. This does not include drywall or plaster cracks because those don’t pose a threat to a building’s structural stability—they’re just unattractive. The majority of structural foundation cracks are caused by differential settling.
Some foundation cracks are severe, while others are not. These are referred to as structural and non-structural cracks. Foundation movement causes structural fissures, which, if not fixed quickly, might jeopardize a building’s structural stability. Concrete shrinkage during the curing process causes non-structural fissures, which do not jeopardize a building’s structural integrity. Non-structural cracks, on the other hand, are not innocuous. Non-structural vertical basement wall fissures, for example, can allow water to seep through.
When should you be concerned?
It’s time to call a professional when you see:
- Cracks that are larger than a tenth of an inch.
- Cracks that are wider on one end than the other.
- Cracks that are widening with the passage of time.
- Brickwork fractures on stair treads.
- Horizontal fissures in the foundation, with or without bowing.
- Several vertical fissures in close proximity.
- Cracks that run diagonally.
- Cracks that go from the ceiling to the wall.
If you notice any of the above, you should schedule a foundation inspection with an expert foundation repair contractor. Don’t hesitate to call because the longer you wait, the more costly the repairs will be.
The Importance of Ongoing Monitoring
If your home has a basement, it is imperative to make sure you have a moisture management professional monitoring it year round to minimize potential repairs, all while protecting your health and home value. Unfinished basements can be difficult to maintain, however with the right level of monitoring many repairs can be minimized, and quite often avoided.
Jersey Shore Crawlspace offers follow up evaluations provided at no charge following your initial visit. We structure these visits to monitor your basement, crawl space, and/or foundation during different seasons throughout the year, each time providing you with detailed feedback on the conditions within your home. This includes monitoring how cracks in the foundation evolve over time.
Basement Services by Jersey Shore Crawlspace Enhancement
We offer the highest quality of defense against damp basements and crawl spaces, energy inefficiency, and problems common in homes with basements and crawl spaces. For over 20 years, we have helped our friends and neighbors achieve a healthier home environment, protecting families and their homes with our crawl space and basement services.
Each home is as unique as those who live in it. We offer a 22-point comprehensive evaluation service, complete with moisture readings and analysis, photographs, and a complete inspection report. Our highly-trained technicians then take the time to sit with you to tailor our drainage systems and waterproofing solutions to suit your goals and budget. Our systems are designed to increase home value, lower energy spending, and create a healthier home environment, affordably. To work within any budget, we offer various payment plans and financing.
Click the button below to speak to a representative or complete the form at the bottom of this page and a representative will be in touch with you.