How to Tell If a Foundation Crack is Structural
There are two kinds of foundation cracks, structural and non-structural. How on earth do you know the difference? Your mind quickly fills with questions about structural damage, repair expenses, family safety, and more. So how can you tell if a foundation crack is structural? There are different ways to determine which type of foundation crack you have.
Non-structural Foundation Cracks
To start, most cracks are non-structural cracks and the do not threaten your home’s structural integrity! This type of crack can occur for many reasons such as slight changes in the soil due to weather such as freeze and thaw cycles, normal concrete shrinkage, openings cut or drilled into the foundation (for plumbing and windows), hydrostatic pressure and constant exposure to moisture. There are different signs for non-structural cracks such as small vertical foundation cracks and narrow cracks measuring ⅛” or less in width. Non-structural cracks do not generally require elaborate repairs.
Structural Foundation Cracks
Unlike non-structural cracks, structural cracks can threaten a home’s structural integrity. Some signs that may indicate that a crack is structural in nature may be that the crack is ⅛” or larger, a crack is horizontal in direction, the crack has shifted forward, one side of a crack projects out further than the other side of the crack, a wall is bowing, and there may be stair step cracks in the mortar between the block or brick on the exterior or interior walls of your home. Structural cracks will also form patterns that a professional can identify. Structural cracks typically signify a shift in the foundation. The 2 most common causes of shifting foundations are inconsistent moisture levels in the soil. An excess of moisture can cause an increase in hydrostatic pressure, which will push walls in or a lack of moisture in the soil, in the case of a drought, can cause the soil to shrink ultimately allowing your home to settle and sink down.
Why You Need to Fix Structural Cracks
It is important to get structural cracks diagnosed and fixed right away. You don’t want to leave structural issues as they will get worse and allow for other collateral problems. You may notice the floors are not level or have a slight slope to them, door frames that seem crooked and even windows or doors that no longer open or close properly. Other issues that can occur are insect and rodent infestations. Insects and rodents can squeeze through small spaces, and they can multiply fast! Additionally, structural issues can lead to plumbing problems. Shifts in the foundation can cause plumbing pipes to break. The U.S. Waterproofing Foundation Repair team can diagnose if you have structural issues that needs attending to.
Finding the Right Solution for Structural Issues
An expert advisor will be sent to your home to assess your problem. They will come equipped with the latest state-of-the art equipment to determine the amount of foundation movement that has occurred. Of course, this analysis is free and without obligation on your part. Our team will be able to assess the situation completely and comprehensively. The cracks, shifting and water infiltration are symptoms and those, along with your input, will direct us to the best method of repair for your foundation and basement or crawlspace. The repair methods can vary from simple crack repairs for non structural cracks, to multiple wall bracing methods such as Carbon Fiber Wall Reinforcement or a Wall Bracing Systems (for walls moving inwards), to a Foundation Underpinning System to prevent further vertical settlement. Get an expert diagnosis and quality work, book a free consultation today!
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