Horizontal Cracks in Drywall and Foundation Walls: When to Worry
Seeing cracks in walls can be unnerving for any homeowner, but they’re something that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Knowing what’s behind these cracks and how they might affect your home’s stability is key to keeping your space safe.
In this post, we’ll dive into horizontal cracks in drywall and horizontal cracks in walls in general, discussing what usually causes them and why some may need immediate attention.
Foundation and Drywall Cracks
Cracks in walls can show up in two main places: your foundation walls and drywall.
Horizontal cracks in drywall are usually visible in upper levels, while horizontal cracks in basement or foundation walls are closer to ground level.
These cracks, whether upstairs or in the foundation, often point to underlying pressure or movement issues that need attention. Left untreated, these cracks can worsen, potentially affecting your home’s stability.
Types of Cracks in Walls
Not all cracks in walls are the same, and each type can indicate different issues:
Vertical Cracks
Often a sign of natural settling; usually less concerning but should still be monitored.
Horizontal Cracks in Walls
Typically more serious, as they may suggest excess pressure from external forces, such as soil pushing against the wall.
Diagonal Cracks
These can indicate foundation shifts or uneven settling, often due to changes in the underlying soil.
Stair-Step Cracks
Common in brick or block walls, usually in basement foundations, and can be a sign of foundational movement or pressure.
Recognizing the types of cracks in walls can help you understand the potential issues and know when to reach out to a professional for an assessment.
Why Do You Have a Horizontal Crack in Your Wall?
If you’re seeing a horizontal crack in wall areas, it’s often due to underlying structural pressures. Common causes include:
- Hydrostatic Pressure: Water pressure from the surrounding soil can push against your foundation, leading to bowing and horizontal cracks in walls.
- Expansive Soil: Soils that swell when wet can create immense pressure, which pushes against walls and causes cracks.
- Temperature Changes: Extreme weather or fluctuating temperatures can lead to wall expansion and contraction, causing cracks over time.
Taking these types of cracks seriously and identifying the root cause is crucial for protecting your home’s structural integrity.
Choosing the Right Solution for Wall Cracks
The right solution for wall cracks depends on the cause. Before any repairs can be effectively applied, the reason for the repair must be identified.
A foundation expert, like those at Groundworks, will assess your wall cracks and underlying conditions to recommend the best solution, which could include:
- Wall Anchors: Ideal for stabilizing walls under pressure from expanding soil. These anchors are installed deep into the surrounding soil and connected to your wall to counteract the external forces, gradually pulling the wall back into place.
- Wall Braces: Wall braces offer internal support and are installed directly along the wall, providing reinforcement and halting further inward movement. This is often a preferred choice when soil conditions or space requirements make outside anchoring difficult.
- Piering System: Used primarily to address foundation settlement issues, piers are driven deep into stable soil layers to support and level a foundation. By lifting and stabilizing the foundation, this system can also help relieve pressure on walls.
With these solutions, a foundation expert ensures a targeted approach to stop cracks from worsening, restoring stability and preventing future issues.
Why Groundworks Is the Best Choice for Your Horizontal Crack Repairs
When it comes to horizontal cracks in your walls, whether they’re in the drywall or foundation, Groundworks is the best choice for lasting solutions.
Cracks are your home’s way of signaling distress, and it’s crucial to pay attention.
With decades of experience, Groundworks understands exactly how to address these issues, using proven methods to stabilize and protect your home. Don’t ignore the signs—schedule a free inspection with Groundworks today and ensure your home’s safety for years to come.
Horizontal Cracks in Walls FAQ’s
Sealing alone may be a temporary fix; the underlying issue, like foundation movement, needs to be addressed to prevent recurring cracks.
If you notice widening cracks, bowing walls, or if the cracks are accompanied by water intrusion, it’s best to get a professional inspection.
In severe cases, yes. Horizontal cracks caused by hydrostatic pressure or expansive soil can weaken the wall’s stability.
