You have done all the due diligence by maintaining your home with gutters and proper drainage away from the home. You routinely clean your gutters and downspouts and making sure that water drains away from your house’s foundation.
You even have a soaker hose installed which runs on schedule. Still, you discover the dreaded foundation crack. In this post, we discuss what to do when you discover cracks in the foundation or walls of your home.
What causes foundation cracks?
Cracks in your foundation could be as a result of factors such as drying shrinkage, subgrade settlement, or contraction and expansion due to moisture changes in the soil under the home. While cracking cannot be prevented, it can be significantly controlled or reduced especially when its causes are identified and preventive steps are taken. In some cases foundation repair is warranted to correct excess movement and damage.
What should you do about the cracks on your foundation?
There are various types of foundation cracks, including horizontal and vertical. Brick mortar may crack is a step fashion and interior walls may crack in corners or at drywall seams.
Various concrete repair, patching, and color matching products are available. If the cracks re-appear this implies that movement has continued. You may be seeing the impact of seasonal movement.
Cracks could be accompanied by other problems such as:
- Sloped floors
- Bowed walls
- Misaligned windows and doors
- Drywall cracks on ceilings and walls
- Cracks on the brickworks and ceramic tiles
It is not uncommon for a home buyer to experience cracking 1-2 years after buying a home where repairs were completed prior to the sale. Seasonal foundation movement may be to blame. Have your foundation inspected.
Getting a professional’s opinion will help you know whether you are dealing with structural damage or minor movement. While some foundation repair specialists provide you with a free home inspection, others may charge a fee for a comprehensive inspection and evaluation. Taking a proactive approach towards your home’s structure will enable you to avoid major repair works down the line.
Do you have cracks in your home’s foundation? Get in touch with Advanced Foundation Repair for an inspection and a free quote today.