Foundation problems readily sound bad and alarming. However, not all foundation problems are as bad as they seem. Early detection of problems like foundation cracks gives you an edge, especially as you can fix those problems quickly to prevent extensive and expensive damage. But how do you spot a problematic crack, and when should you consider restoration of the foundation wall in Woodridge?
This article compiles a list of common ways to detect a problematic foundation crack and how to deal with it.
Check The Size Of The Crack
Size is one of the biggest indicators of how bad a foundation crack is. Large cracks are suggestive of a bigger problem that requires immediate attention. Unsure of how bad the foundation crack is? Get a dime and insert it into the cracked surface.
Small hairline cracks are at the earliest stages and should be addressed quickly to prevent widening. However, larger cracks can be worrying as they could mean the problem has existed for a while. With larger cracks, you may suffer common water-related damages, including basement moisture and humidity problems, mold and mildew, water damage, etc.
Whether a small or large crack, now is the time to call a foundation repair professional for help.
Check The Length Of The Crack
The size and length of your foundation crack indicate the problem’s severity. Short hairline cracks are common, rarely problematic, but require attention. Short cracks are often a maximum length of one foot. However, longer and wider cracks reaching up to 5-foot or more should be addressed immediately.
Leaving longer and wider cracks unattended can cause the cracks to widen further and spread to other areas of your foundation. This problem can lead to water issues and a sunken foundation. It can also greatly compromise the property’s integrity.
Have your foundation repair professional check on this problem, especially as extensive cracks with a width over ¼ inch indicate underlying foundation problems.
Inspect The Cinder Blocks
Your cinder blocks can also be informative when dealing with foundation cracks. Check the cinder blocks for vertical cracks. If noticed, now is the time to contact your foundation repair professional.
Leaving vertical cracks on cinder blocks unattended will expose you to water damage. It can cause other expensive and health-compromising problems within your property.
Inspect for step cracks
Some cracks take the steps form. This type of crack is commonly found on the cinder block and indicates a bigger problem waiting to happen. Notice this problem? Contact your foundation repair professional immediately.
Leaving step cracks unattended compromises your property’s integrity and puts you at risk of a wall or building collapse. Step cracks are a little more dangerous than vertical or horizontal ones as they compromise different wall levels.
Schedule a quick inspection appointment with your foundation repair professional to get to the bottom of this problem.
Inspect For Vertical Cracks On Adjacent Walls
Any problem with your foundation compromises the integrity of your walls. Foundation cracks often cause vertical cracks on adjacent walls due to load shedding and other factors. While this problem is common and least severe, it creates a line of fault that could become a potential problem later.
It is important to speak to your foundation repair professional to look at the problem, gauge its severity, and determine appropriate repair solutions. Doing this gives you the peace of mind you deserve.
Inspect for horizontal cracks in the basement
The basement is one of the first indicators of a foundation problem. With cracks, the basement may begin to soak up moisture causing high humidity, stuffiness, and other moisture-related problems like mold and mildew. While these symptoms indicate a moisture problem, they do not readily confirm cracks in the foundation.
An excellent way to confirm cracks is by inspecting the basement for horizontal cracks along the walls. These cracks could be caused by the freezing and thawing cycles resulting from seasonal changes.
You should go to the extra line by inspecting for condensation around the cracks and surrounding areas. If there are condensations or signs of water problems, seal the cracks with epoxy.
Sealing your cracks with epoxy is a fine solution to prevent moisture problems. However, this does not address any underlying issues that may have caused the crack. Other than sealing the cracks, you can contact your foundation repair professional to check the waterproofing membrane for compromises.
How to fix foundation cracks
You can fix foundation cracks using several methods, including epoxy application for sealing small cracks. However, a professional’s perspective is required for wider and longer cracks. Thankfully, professionals can detect the problem, determine the underlying problem, and recommend solutions ranging from steel braces to adding waterproofing membranes, underpinning the foundation, or a potential replacement of the entire foundation.
Speaking to a professional and having them fix the problem ensures improved structural integrity and peace of mind. Contact a professional foundation repair contractor today.
