3 Kinds of Basement Wall Cracks (Which Ones Mean Structural Damage)
Basement wall cracks are one of the most common warning signs of foundation movement. While some cracks are cosmetic, others can indicate structural pressure on the wall from soil movement or water intrusion. Different crack patterns can reveal whether the foundation is settling, the wall is bowing inward, or hydrostatic pressure is building behind the wall.
Signs a Basement Wall Crack May Be Structural
• horizontal cracks in block walls
• stair-step cracks in brick
• widening cracks over time
• basement wall bowing inward
• water entering through the crack
Concerned about a crack in your basement wall?
Foundation Worx inspects and repairs structural foundation problems throughout the Atlanta area.
Call 404-662-2454 to schedule a foundation inspection.
Understanding the type of crack in your basement wall can help determine whether the problem is minor shrinkage or a sign that the foundation is shifting.
Below are the three most common types of basement wall cracks and what they typically indicate about the condition of the foundation.
Vertical Basement Wall Cracks
Vertical basement wall cracks are cracks that have a perpendicular orientation on the basement wall. Some vertical cracks slant to an angle of approximately 30 degrees. Vertical cracks often appear as basement walls and concrete shrink during the curing process.
Most vertical cracks, especially the smaller ones, are harmless since they just occur at the surface of the concrete. However, if you spot basement wall cracks that are more than 1/8 inch (3mm) thick, you need to get concerned. If any vertical crack on your basement wall appears to be expanding gradually, you need to get in touch with a professional wall repair contractor.
Diagonal Basement Wall Cracks
Diagonal cracks on the walls of your basement may be signaling a bigger problem. These cracks are common where the foundation has settled unevenly. They range from about 30 degrees to 75 degrees and may initially be narrow, in which case they are referred to as hairline cracks.
If hairline cracks are left unrepaired and the foundation continues to settle non-uniformly, they will grow into large diagonal cracks.
Large diagonal basement wall cracks should be a point to worry about since they can allow water and moisture to seep into the basement and cause further damage. You should let a professional contractor inspect and repair any diagonal cracks on your basement wall.
Horizontal Basement Wall Cracks
The appearance of horizontal cracks in your basement can be unnerving. This is because in many cases, horizontal wall cracks indicate a structural problem in the basement wall or foundation. Often, horizontal basement wall cracks occur when the basement walls bow due to an increase in the hydrostatic pressure from the soil that surrounds the basement.
Since basement wall cracks may be an indicator of severe basement wall damage, you need to have them repaired quickly by an expert. The technician will first assess the extent of the damage and advise you on the best way to repair the cracks.
Horizontal basement wall cracks often indicate lateral soil pressure pushing against the foundation wall. This type of crack frequently appears in block foundations and may be accompanied by bowing or inward wall movement. In many cases, professional basement wall repair is needed to stabilize the structure.
If a crack in your basement wall is widening, leaking water, or accompanied by wall movement, it should be inspected by a structural professional.
When to Call a Foundation Repair Professional: If a basement crack is widening, leaking water, or causing the wall to bow inward, it should be evaluated by a foundation repair specialist. Structural pressure on basement walls can worsen over time if left unaddressed.
Foundation Worx provides basement wall repair and structural foundation inspections throughout the Atlanta area.solutions throughout the Atlanta area. Call 404-662-2454 to schedule an evaluation.