How do you feel when you see house foundation cracks? For many people, the sight of cracks on a building is unnerving. This is because cracks are commonly associated with structural damage of the foundation, walls, floor, and many other sections of a house.
However, not all types of cracks should make you worried. Some cracks are just a sign that the concrete is settling and shifting slightly. Even then, you should be worried if you see cracks that are deemed to be dangerous. Below are details about the common types of house foundation cracks and how to repair them.
Types of house foundation cracks
- Vertical cracks
Vertical cracks are a common occurrence in many buildings. They occur as a result of tension in concrete as it cures over time. The tension causes cracking, which is the reason why it is common to see vertical cracks in new buildings or those that are less than two years old. Vertical house foundation cracks also occur as a result of hydrostatic pressure as soil that has water exerts pressure on the foundation.
Most vertical cracks are regarded as non-threatening since they do not signify any structural damage. However, they still need to be fixed because they can allow water to seep through the foundation.
- Diagonal cracks
Diagonal cracks should make you a bit worried. This is because they are a result of differential settling of the foundation, which can lead to notable structural problems. Uneven foundation settling causes the foundation to move in two opposite directions, which results in horizontal and vertical tension that causes cracking.
- Horizontal cracks
Horizontal cracks show that there are serious structural problems in the foundation. Such cracks occur as a result of bowing of the foundation wall, which results from too much hydrostatic pressure from the surrounding soil. Horizontal cracks are also caused by the use of heavy equipment near the foundation and excessive backfilling.
How to fix house foundation cracks
Horizontal and diagonal cracks can be repaired using methods such as polyurethaneor epoxy injection. Carbon fiber products can also be used to permanently fix cracks of up to 2 inches in width. Horizontal cracks are more complicated and can be repaired using technologies such as carbon fiber sheets, rods, and beams.
When making plans to fix any house foundation crack, it is important to involve an expert who will assess the extent of damage and recommend the best repair method.
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Rob VanSuilichem
Serving Michigan homeowners for over 32 years, Everdry is one of the Nation’s largest and most experienced waterproofer. Locally owned, operated and staffed, Everdry professionals take a personal one-on-one approach in educating homeowners so they truly understand all their options for creating a safe, dry, healthy and usable space in their basements.
What Sets Us Apart
- Unbeatable quality due to the experience of the owners and staff.
- Unbeatable value due to the efficiency and expertise of more than 32 years of experience.
- Unbeatable value due to the purchasing power of being one of the largest waterproofers in the nation.
- Unbeatable service due to the fact that EverDry is a locally owned and operated company.
Credentials Include:
- Members of the Home Builders Association
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The aforementioned memberships are important because we benefit from the constant exchange of information and knowledge. We are updated on everything from installation techniques, to customer service improvements. You benefit in the knowledge that these third party inspection agencies require us to meet stringent requirements to remain members in good standing.
Better Business Bureau
We have been nominated and won the prestigious Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award for Ethics many times, Chosen as a W.Mich.BBB Torch finalist in 2014 & 2015, Won the Torch Award for Ethics in 2016, Won the Eastern Michigan BBB Torch Award in 2019 and was also chosen as a Western Michigan BBB Torch finalist in 2019. Won the Eastern Michigan BBB Torch Award in 2023 and Finalist for the Western Michigan BBB Torch Award in 2020 & 2021!
Mission Statement
To create raving fans of our customers and employees through frequent contact, constant training, a commitment to excellence and unlimited opportunity.