While a common occurrence among homeowners, identifying a new (or growing) crack along your foundation wall can feel unnerving. Yet not all cracks spell disaster—help yourself by learning which types are more serious than others. To determine if a crack will have disastrous consequences, consider the causes, types, and warning signs of structural wall cracks. Then, call Drainage & Erosion Solutions for comprehensive waterproofing and foundation crack repair.
McLean, VA, residents seeking such services will find foundation crack solutions and more at Drainage & Erosion. Our award-winning design-and-build services include regrading, drainage system installation and repair, retaining wall construction, and more. Additionally, our attention to detail and commitment to client satisfaction ensures an effective solution to every drainage dilemma. To learn more about our repair services, call (703) 534-1949 today!
Here, we explore everything homeowners need to know about basement foundation crack repair:
Foundation Crack Causes
- Poor Drainage: Excessive water (heavy rains, flooding, frost) around the foundation can saturate and destabilize the soil beneath, leading to cracks. Waterproofing your basement and foundation offers a straightforward remedy in this situation.
- Soil Conditions: Over time, variations in soil composition can cause uneven settling so that your foundation tilts and cracks. For example, clay-rich soil expands with moisture and shrinks during dry periods. These cycles stress home foundations and cause splintering.
- Weak Construction: Improper materials or construction techniques can weaken foundations and make them prone to cracking. Additionally, failing to test soil before construction can lead to conditions that undermine foundations’ stability.
- Summer Heat: Extreme heat dries out and compacts soil, causing it to shift beneath foundations.
Types of Foundation Cracks
- Hairline Cracks: These are thin, vertical cracks, usually less than ⅛ inches wide. They typically appear when concrete foundations are curing for new homes or as concrete ages in old structures. Such cracks are generally not a concern by themselves.
- Shrinkage Cracks: Similar to the hairline variety, shrinkage cracks appear as concrete dries out. They often appear in new builds within a year after construction and run vertically. Again, they are not a cause for worry by themselves.
- Horizontal Cracks: More serious than vertical shrinkage cracks, horizontal cracks can indicate foundation settlement or pressure from soil. Wide, growing cracks or cracks accompanied by bowing walls call for a professional inspection.
- Diagonal Cracks: These are often the product of settlement or shrinkage. While not all diagonal cracks are dire, signs of foundation movement or water leakage indicate a serious structural issue and require professional evaluation.
- Stair-Step Cracks: A type of diagonal crack, these typically resemble a series of steps going down the wall. They occur when a foundation wall bows inward due to pressure from the surrounding soil. Stair-step cracks are considered a sign of foundation complications.
When to Call a Professional
While homeowners should never delay calling a professional for foundation repair, some cracks warrant immediate response. If you discover a crack wider than ¼ inches, seek professional help. Be extra vigilant of growing cracks, or those accompanied by leaks or misaligned foundation walls.
Even seemingly harmless cracks can warrant professional attention. A foundation repair company can assess damage sites size, location, and movement to determine if it requires service. Furthermore, paying minor foundation crack repair costs now can save you time, money, and stress down the line by preventing major structural issues.
Contact Drainage & Erosion Solutions for Foundation Crack Repair in McLean, VA
Property owners in McLean, VA, concerned about the health of their foundation wall can rely on Drainage & Erosion Solutions for all foundation crack repair needs. Our expert technicians are trained and certified in tightly sealing worrisome cracks and identifying other structural concerns. Call (703) 534-1949 to learn more about our drainage and repair services!
