How Can I Tell if My Foundation Crack is Serious?
Your foundation is the backbone of your entire home, providing the support and stability needed to keep everything strong. But when cracks appear, it’s natural to wonder how serious they might be. Are they just cosmetic, or could they indicate a deeper problem that threatens the integrity of your entire home?
Understanding the importance of a healthy foundation is crucial because, left unchecked, even small cracks can lead to significant structural issues, costly repairs, and many other problems that could compromise your home’s safety and value.
In this article, we explore common types of foundation cracks to look for around your home.
Understanding Different Foundation Cracks
Understanding the different types of foundation cracks and what they reveal about your foundation is important for determining the severity of your potential issues
Vertical Cracks
Vertical cracks result from the natural settling of your home. They’re usually less concerning because they run straight up and down, meaning the structure adjusts uniformly. However, don’t ignore them—If they start to change over time, it could signal a bigger issue that requires professional attention.
Horizontal Cracks
Horizontal cracks are a red flag. These cracks suggest that external pressure is pushing against your foundation walls due to expanding soil or excessive moisture buildup. This pressure can cause the foundation to bow inward, leading to serious structural damage. If you spot horizontal cracks, contact a professional.
Diagonal Cracks
Diagonal cracks typically form when one side of your home is settling more than the other. This uneven movement can stress the foundation, leading to cracks that angle across the walls. These cracks can range from minor to severe, depending on the extent of the uneven settling. If the crack is wider at one end or seems to be growing, it’s a sign that your foundation needs professional attention.
Any crack in your foundation indicates a potential problem. While some cracks are more concerning than others, it’s imperative to monitor them all to ensure the issue doesn’t worsen.
Other Signs That May Indicate a Foundation Problem
Foundation problems are not just about cracks. Other signs around your home can indicate a serious problem with your foundation. Keeping an eye out for the following clues can help you catch foundation problems before they get worse with time:
Misaligned Walls, Doors, and Windows
If your walls seem to be tilting or your doors and windows are not closing properly, it is not just annoying. This can indicate that your foundation is shifting, leading to misalignment throughout your home.
Water Seepage
If you notice damp spots, water stains, or puddles in your basement or crawl space, this can indicate that your foundation is not as solid as it should be. Moisture can weaken the foundation and worsen existing cracks, leading to more serious problems down the road.
Sagging Floors or Uneven Ceilings
If your floors are starting to sag or your ceilings look uneven, don’t ignore them. These issues often point to foundation problems. As the foundation shifts or settles unevenly, it can cause the entire structure to warp putting your home at risk. Over time, these changes can lead to significant structural problems, making it crucial to address the underlying issue before it worsens.
What Do I Do Now?
If your self-inspection reveals any of these troubling signs, don’t wait to act. If you notice any of these problems around your home, the next step is to call a professional. All of these issues can indicate serious underlying foundation problems that only a trained professional would know how to deal with. A professional inspection will help you understand the severity of the situation and guide you on the necessary repairs to ensure your home is safe.
Trust Groundworks with Your Foundation Repair!
Groundworks’ foundation repair products ensure a reliable solution for homeowners. We only install products in which we have complete confidence that we are sure will be about to protect you and your home from potential foundation problems that may appear. If you’re in Canada and worried about your foundation, contact Groundworks today to schedule a free inspection.
Wall Crack FAQs
Wall cracks in new homes are often due to the natural settling process as the house adjusts to its foundation. Other factors include temperature changes and the curing of construction materials.
Minor cracks can sometimes be sealed with DIY products, but they usually don’t last. It’s best to have a professional evaluate the cracks and provide a lasting fix.
Ensure proper foundation support, maintain consistent indoor humidity levels, and address any water leaks as soon as possible.
