Concerned about foundation cracks? Of course, you are! Even seemingly minor and small cracks can lead to big damage to your home. Fortunately, there’s solace in knowing that many foundation cracks are completely normal and should not cause any concern.
However, some cracks aren’t normal and warrant a second look from a professional to minimize damages. Without immediate professional attention, these cracks can cause hundreds to thousands of dollars in damage and headaches for homeowners.
When is a Foundation Crack Cause for Concern?
How can you differentiate a normal foundation crack from one that is a cause for concern? The size of the crack, as well as the direction it runs, generally determines its risk of damaging your home.
Any crack regardless of its size or shape, that allows water seepage into the foundation needs immediate professional attention. You should also worry if the crack runs horizontally or diagonally since structural damage could be the cause.
A crack that runs more than ⅛ wide may indicate serious problems with the home’s structure. Do not ignore these types of foundation cracks, and immediately reach out to a technician for further assistance.
Normal Foundation Cracks
Vertical cracks are completely normal. Almost every homeowner will notice these cracks. While seeing a crack can be concerning, these cracks are normal and occur as the foundation settles or when the weather changes from warm to cold. Vertical cracks generally do not cause any concern or require professional attention. In the event repair becomes necessary, DIY fixes often remedy the situation.
Should I Call an Expert if I Notice a Leaking Crack?
Once a crack starts to leak, it’s prone to additional damage and likely needs expert attention. Once a crack begins to leak, it reduces the foundation’s resistance to damage. You can take a few preventative measures to stop leaks from cracking, such as adding downspouts to your gutters to direct water away.
Southern Crawl Space offers moisture control services, including basement and crawlspace waterproofing, drainage system installation, and vapor barrier installation. SCS guarantees to fix your moisture issues permanently. Our trained team of technicians utilizes only the best solutions for your basement or crawlspace. We are proud to offer LumberKote™ and MaxxBarrier™ waterproofing sealers by WatsonSeal. We are Alabama’s ONLY Watson Seal Authorized Dealer.
If you have a service request, give us a call. We will happily provide a free inspection and service estimate.
