Tips to Help You Diagnose and Deal With Foundation Cracks in the Home
Posted on: 27 May 2020
One of the worrying things for an owner to notice about their home are foundation cracks. The cracks can come in all sizes and shapes. Some will be horizontal and others vertical. The width also varies, which makes it challenging for a homeowner to know which ones to ignore and the ones to repair. It is common for small cracks to form on a newly built structure, especially around the doors and the windows. Here are tips that can help you decide whether a foundation crack is regular, or you can call in an expert for the same.
Differentiating Between a Normal and Dangerous Crack
You need to tell whether a crack is the normal result of the house curing process or of a foundation that is settling. From the moment you notice the crack, keep observing it regularly. If the crack keeps widening as time passes, you have to call in a specialist to help fix it. On the other hand, if the size of the crack remains the same, you can simply repair the crack without having to deal with foundation repair.
Differentiating Between Horizontal, Vertical and Diagonal Foundation Cracks
The direction of the crack is another important clue as to whether it is okay or dangerous. Diagonal cracks are the most common in buildings. They form because of shrinkage because as concrete cures, it shrinks. Normally, they are nothing to worry about. Vertical cracks are normal on the corners of foundation blocks. They are rarely a cause for alarm for the homeowner, unless they start widening. Horizontal cracks, on the other hand, are an immediate cause for worry. They are the result of water pressure from the outside and a direct indication that the foundation might fail.
Determining if the Foundation Damage Is Beyond Repair
Most people notice problems with their foundation long before the situation goes beyond repair. Solutions such as mending the cracks and underpinning can help restore the foundation and preserve the structural integrity of your home. The only time when it is completely impossible to reverse the damage to the home is when the foundation collapses altogether.
The best way to deal with foundation weaknesses is looking for a contractor check the cracks you have observed. Only they can make an assessment and determine whether the cracks are cause for alarm or not. They will also help repair minor foundation cracks with epoxy injections or structural repairs.
Contact a foundation crack repair contractor for more information.
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