Oh no! You’ve spotted some cracks in your foundation- are they dangerous or harmless? We will go through the different types of foundation cracks so you can determine if you need to make a phone call or sit back and relax.

Different Types of Settlement

First off, we need to cover some basics: foundation settlement. There are two different kinds of foundational settlement; uniform settlement and differential settlement. Uniform settlement is when each point of the structure sinks into the ground at the same time. The structure retains no damage and the foundation uniformly settles as a whole. Differential settlement is quite the opposite of uniform settlement. This occurs when some points of the structure settle while others remain stable. Obviously, this is the type of settlement that creates long lasting structural problems in the foundation. So, now that we’ve covered that, let’s get on to the cracks that can occur from settlement so that you can determine if your home is in danger or not.

Vertical Cracks: More normal than not.

Don’t worry, they’re perfectly normal! If your foundation cracks are vertical, then you shouldn’t have anything to worry about. Vertical cracks that are slightly diagonal (within 30 degrees) really should not cause concern. Vertical foundation cracks are very common and can be seen in most households in most geographical locations. Concrete tension, and rains creating water pressure on foundation within the first couple of years after construction is usually the cause of these cracks. You can fix these by mending the crack with a polyurethane injection or epoxy because they are lightweight, waterproof and flexible materials that create a permanent seal in your foundation.

Diagonal Cracks: A Little Bit More Worrisome.

These can indicate that differential settlement has taken place, thus they might create a little more concern. This can happen when parts of the home settle more quickly than other, more stable, points. Diagonal cracks that run 30-75 degrees should be checked up on by a professional. Differential settlement indicates that movement has occurred in 2 different directions, causing both vertical and horizontal tension. Sometimes, like with homes built on a hill or slope, or climates with rapidly changing soil (from excessive rain to drought), cracks can range from hairline to very obvious. To fix these cracks, you can use the same methods as with vertical cracks, but will need to figure out what the underlying issue is in order to prevent future cracks and more hefty damage from occurring.

Horizontal Cracks: You Don’t Want These!

There are several different types of horizontal foundation cracks. They all indicate dangerous structural problems. Things can get more complicating when basements are in the mix. When the surrounding ground puts too much force on the basement walls, it bows inward and develops a horizontal crack. Some other causes that could contribute to foundational cracks could be heavy equipment near a wall, a load of frost, or excessive backfilling. Small horizontal cracks can form on a wall that is not bowing still need to be monitored for any worsening damage.

Stair-Step Cracks : These Are Dangerous!

Stair-step cracks are diagonal cracks that occur in both concrete block and brick foundations. These crack starts along a joint or near the end of the wall and climb up or down as they travel. Like diagonal cracks, differential settlement causes stair-step cracks. Perhaps the most severe of the different types of cracks in your foundation, you should not hesitate to call a professional to evaluate the cause for concern when these cracks are spotted. If you are in the Nashville area and need your foundation to be looked at, feel free to give your local Foundation Repair experts at Barrier Waterproofing Systems a call at (615) 257-1060 | (931) 536-1168. We will assess the condition of your foundation and help outline a plan of action that can put the structure of your home back into good shape.