diagnose your problem
Foundation cracks are often indicative of a home that’s not settling properly. While these cracks can be unsightly and concerning for homeowners, not all cracks indicate a problem that should be addressed.
For instance, hairline cracks are very small, usually less than a millimeter in size. They’re not cause for immediate concern but should be monitored to see if they expand over time. The more concerning types of foundation cracks are vertical cracks, up-and-down cracks, horizontal cracks, and stair-step cracks. These latter types of cracks are often indicative of foundation issues that need to be addressed.
Other Common Symptoms
- Doors or windows that stick when they’re opened or closed
- Uneven flooring
- Concrete shrinkage
- Foundation walls separating from soil
- Trim that’s beginning to pull away from windows
- Cracks in drywall or around doors and windows
Root Causes of Foundation Cracks
- Improper Home Settlement: From improper drainage to surface water issues to even faulty building practices when the home was constructed, there are various reasons why a home’s foundation may degrade prematurely. Diagonal or horizontal cracks in the drywall and basement walls are all signs to look out for.
- Surface and Subsurface Water Issues: Have standing water in your yard or driveway? If the water builds up around your foundation, it can put pressure on the walls and floors, leading to crack formation and foundation problems.
If you’re experiencing any of these concerns, schedule a free consultation to discover how you can eliminate these issues for good.
