Why Is My Foundation Cracking?: The Major Causes
Foundation cracks can happen to any home, anywhere. In fact, they’re quite common. Unfortunately, these cracks can cause many issues within your house, from uneven floors and drywall cracks to structural instability.
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why is my foundation cracking?” you’ve come to the right place. This page addresses common homeowner questions, explaining the causes, symptoms, and solutions for foundation cracks.
What Are Foundation Cracks?
Foundation cracks can develop on basement walls, concrete slabs, and crawl spaces. These cracks appear in various shapes and sizes and vary in severity.
Some foundation cracks worsen over time, compromising your home’s overall structure. All cracks, large and small, should be inspected by a foundation repair specialist to ensure your home’s safety.
What Causes Foundation Cracks?
Many factors can cause foundation cracks. Understanding these causes will help you identify potential problems early. Here, we break down the common causes of foundation cracks into three groups: ground movement, structural issues, and environmental factors.
Ground Movement
You may not realize that the ground beneath your house is critical to your home’s stability. Here’s how ground movement affects your foundation:
- Expansive Soil: Moisture and temperature changes cause expansive clay soil to expand and contract, placing significant stress on the foundation.
- Tree Roots: Thriving tree roots growing beneath your foundation cause soil shifts and hydrostatic pressure on the foundation.
- Settlement: Natural settlement over time can cause foundation cracks and shifting.
Structural Issues
Structural issues also cause foundation cracks. Here are a few to consider:
- Poor Construction: Foundations built on unstable ground or built by poor design cause foundation cracks. Insufficient concrete curing times, inadequate mixing, and improper water-concrete ratios lead to cracks.
- Structural Defects: Pre-existing foundation or building defects can cause cracks.
- Weight Overload: Excessive weight from heavy machinery, equipment, or large objects can cause foundation cracks.
Environmental Factors
Natural elements can also affect your foundation. Take a look at these environmental factors that cause foundation cracks:
- Erosion: Soil erosion undermines your foundation, causing instability and foundation cracks.
- Earthquakes: Seismic activity damages the foundation, causing shifts and cracks.
- Flooding: Excessive flooding and pooling water near the foundation causes cracks and structural failure.
Contact a foundation repair professional if you notice foundation cracks in your home. An expert will determine the underlying cause of the damage and recommend appropriate repairs to prevent further damage.
Types of Foundation Cracks
If you find a foundation crack, don’t panic. Some cracks are harmless, while others may need repair.
Cracks can appear in foundations, ceilings, floors, and walls, so it’s important to understand their types and when to call a professional. Below is a list of five foundation crack types and how to determine if they need attention.
- Vertical Cracks: These run straight up and down and are usually caused by settlement or soil movement. Vertical cracks are typically not a concern unless wider than one-quarter inch but should be monitored for changes. Contact a professional if you notice widening or other signs of foundation damage, such as uneven floors, bowing walls, or sticking doors and windows.
- Horizontal Cracks: Horizontal cracks run horizontally and are caused by lateral pressure from water or soil. They can lead to issues like sagging support beams and joists. Horizontal cracks worsen over time and can cause severe problems like structural damage. Contact a professional for an inspection and early detection.
- Diagonal Cracks: Diagonal cracks often indicate structural problems and uneven weight distribution. A professional will determine whether these foundation cracks are caused by settlement or foundation instability.
- Stair-Step Cracks: These foundation cracks form a stair-step pattern and are often caused by uneven settlement or foundation movement. Contact a foundation repair professional for an inspection, as these cracks may indicate significant problems.
- Hairline Cracks: These tiny cracks are normal, especially following new construction. However, if the cracks change in size or pattern, contact a professional for an assessment.
Structural vs. Non-Structural Foundation Cracks
Structural and non-structural foundation cracks differ in their causes, severity, and impact on the home. Here’s what you need to know:
Structural Foundation Cracks
Structural cracks affect your home’s stability and integrity. These cracks require immediate professional attention. Structural cracks can lead to significant problems, including:
- Sagging floors
- Bowing walls
- Collapse
Non-Structural Foundation Cracks
Non-structural foundation cracks are usually less severe, as they don’t directly threaten the foundation’s structure. They are typically smaller, cosmetic, and caused by minor settlement.
Non-structural foundation cracks may not require immediate attention. However, if you have concerns or if they worsen over time, contact a foundation repair professional for an inspection.
How to Prevent Foundation Cracks
Preventing foundation cracks is the first defense against costly repairs and potential structural damage. Proactive measures include the following:
- Install proper exterior and interior drainage systems, gutters, and downspouts.
- Ensure proper yard grading and slope around the foundation.
- Install a sump pump to redirect water away from the foundation.
- Have your foundation inspected regularly to identify potential problems early.
Early detection and prevention help maintain your foundation and stop cracks before they start. Contact your local Groundworks Company for a free inspection and customized solutions.
Groundworks’ Solutions Target Foundation Cracks at Their Core
When you notice foundation cracks, don’t panic. Groundworks has professional solutions to repair the damage and protect your home. Contact us today for a free inspection and learn more about how you can safeguard your property against foundation damage.
Foundation Cracks FAQs
While not all cracks require immediate concern, it’s vital to examine horizontal, diagonal, and stair-step cracks that are expanding in width, as well as gaps around windows and doors. Further exploration is recommended for cracks accompanying bowing walls and uneven floors. Regions with clay-based soil, such as Wichita, experience an increased risk of foundation issues.
DIY fixes are not the answer. To get to the root of the problem, it’s important for repair professionals to inspect your foundation.
Depending on where the cracks are, what they mean, and the extent of the damage, your house could benefit from a variety of solutions.
For example, if your house is settling, helical piers will be used to stabilize and potentially lift it. For significant wall issues, repairs like wall anchors or beams can be used as reinforcements.
Homeowners insurance usually does not cover foundation repair. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to learn the details of your policy. Factors such as the age, type, and location of the foundation will influence whether your home is eligible for coverage. Groundworks offers affordable financing options. Contact us to learn more.
