A lot of homeowners have foundation problems, costing them an average of over $2,000 to $7,000 to fix.
All these repairs stem from one foundation problem — house foundation cracks. These cracks endanger the foundation’s ability to support all that’s above it, such as the walls of your home.
But what causes these cracks and how can you fix them when they arise? Keep reading to find out!
Causes of Cracks in House Foundations
Cracks are signs of foundation issues and there are many reasons why these might form in the foundation of a house.
House Settling
As a house settles into the ground, it is not uncommon for cracks to form in the foundation. This is usually not a cause for alarm.
Shrinkage
As concrete dries, it will slightly shrink. This can result in cracks forming, particularly in the corners of a foundation.
Thermal Expansion and Contraction
Extremes in temperature can cause the foundation to expand or contract. When this happens, cracks might form at any time.
Poorly Compacted Soil
When the soil around your house is not properly compacted, it can shift and settle. This can cause the foundation to crack and settle as well.
Undersized Footings
The footing is the part of the home foundation that rests on the ground. If it is too small, it can create stress points that lead to cracks.
Poorly Designed Foundation
If the home foundation was not designed properly, it may be structurally unsound and prone to cracking.
Inadequate drainage and pooling water are other causes,too. When the soil around a home does not drain properly, water can seep into the basement or crawlspace, causing the foundation to settle and crack. Water that pools around a home’s foundation can also lead to cracking, as the weight of the water can cause the foundation to shift.
How to Repair Cracks in House Foundations
If you notice any cracks in your foundation, it’s important to take action and start with your foundation repair project immediately.
The first step is to determine the cause of the cracks. As we have mentioned above, they may be due to settling or normal wear and tear. However, they can also be caused by water damage, poor construction, or seismic activity.
Clean the cracks with a wire brush to remove any dirt or debris. Next, use a masonry chisel to widen the cracks slightly. This will give the repair sealant a better surface to adhere to.
For small cracks, a simple sealant may be enough. For larger cracks, you may need to use epoxy or other heavy-duty materials.
It’s also important to make sure that the cracks are properly cleaned and dry before beginning any repairs.
If you’re not comfortable repairing the cracks yourself, you can always hire a professional. However, with a little time and effort, most cracks can be repaired by the average homeowner.
Avoiding House Foundation Cracks
It’s important to avoid house foundation cracks in your house to maintain a safe and structurally sound home. There are a few ways to prevent cracks, such as proper drainage and regular maintenance. If you already have cracks, it’s important to repair them as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
If you think this article was helpful, visit our daily blog posts for more home care tips.