Wall Cracks | Trenton, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Wall Damage That May Indicate Issues With Your Foundation Trenton, NJ

Wall Damage That May Indicate Issues With Your Foundation Trenton, NJ

The appearance of cracks on your walls, foundation or basement can be unnerving. In addition to making structures look unsightly, cracks may also mean that there is some problem in the structure of walls or the foundation.

While some types of cracks simply indicate the shrinking of concrete and are therefore nothing much to worry about, the appearance of large cracks of any type should worry you. Here are details about four types of wall cracks and what they mean.

bowing or rotating walls Wall Damage That May Indicate Issues With Your Foundation Trenton, NJ

Vertical cracks

Vertical cracks run up and down in an upright position on walls and foundations. These types of cracks may also appear in a slightly slanting position (about 30 degrees relative to the perpendicular position). Vertical wall cracks often occur as a result of concrete shrinkage and are therefore also referred to a shrinkage cracks.

Narrow b are nothing to worry about because they are just a sign that the concrete is shrinking. However, you should be concerned if you see wide vertical cracks (wider than 3 mm or 1/8 inch). You should consult a wall repair expert if you see wider vertical cracks since such cracks may be an indicator of a significant foundation movement.

Diagonal cracks

Diagonal cracks run in a slanting manner (30-75 degrees relative to the perpendicular position) from one point to another on a wall. The cracks may be narrow (referred to as hairline cracks) or wider. Unlike vertical cracks, diagonal cracks are usually a sign of more serious structural issues. Such issues include an uneven shifting or settling of the foundation.

Uneven foundation movement or settling can occur as a result of a house having been built on a slope. It can also be due to excessive moisture in some sections of the soil around the foundation, which will cause the foundation to sink more on one side, leading to diagonal cracking.

Because diagonal wall cracks require more skills and resources to repair compared to vertical cracks, you need to call a professional wall repair company the moment you spot these cracks.

Stair step cracks

Stair step cracks are similar to diagonal cracks, save for the fact that they take the form of a staircase running along the joints between bricks. The causes and implications of stair step cracks are quite similar to those of diagonal cracks, meaning that you should consult an expert if you see stair step cracks.

ibeams cracked basement wall 1024x768 1 Wall Damage That May Indicate Issues With Your Foundation Trenton, NJ

Horizontal cracks

Horizontal wall cracks are a sign of severe damage to your building’s walls or foundation. These types of cracks occur due to foundation bowing, which is caused by any of the following factors:

  • Excessive hydrostatic pressure
  • Large roots near the foundation
  • Thermal movement of the soil around the foundation

Horizontal cracks are much more complicated and thus need to be urgently checked and repaired by a skilled technician.

Contact the Professionals at Everdry Waterproofing of S.E. Michigan Today! (732) 526-7770

Basement Wall Cracks | Trenton, NJ | Select Basement Waterproofing

Foundation Repair Common Misconceptions Trenton, NJ

Foundation Repair Common Misconceptions Trenton, NJ

Do you have basement wall cracks? Chances are that you’re searching the internet for information on how to repair these cracks and whether or not you should be worried about them. While the internet provides us with a lot of useful information, it is also a source of false information. If you’re not careful, you could end up going down a rabbit hole that could steer you off the right path.

before straightened walls wall anchors Foundation Repair Common Misconceptions Trenton, NJ

The following are myths about basement wall cracksthat every homeowner should be aware of.

  1. Cracks only appear on basement walls of homes that were poorly constructed

Foundation cracks are caused by various factors. Poor construction is just one causes of these cracks. Your wall may be cracking because of the natural settlement movements of your foundation. It could also be cracking because of high hydrostatic pressure from the soil surrounding the foundation. The cracking could also be a combination of various factors. The only way you can determine the root cause of the cracking is by having your foundation inspected by a foundation repair professional.

  1. You can fix leaky cracks by sealing them

Sealing cracks using crack injections is effective for stopping water seepage. However, this fix will only be temporary if it is used on its own. In fact, it can result in more serious damage as the water pressure continues to build up behind the wall.

Sealing of cracks should only be done if the underlying problem has been identified and resolved.

cinder block wall repair1 e1599163472946 Foundation Repair Common Misconceptions Trenton, NJ
  1. Foundation repair is expensive

Repairing foundation cracks isn’t always expensive. In fact, the faster you act on foundation cracks, the cheaper it is likely to be to have the cracks repaired. Ignoring the cracks will only result in the problem becoming worse and therefore more expensive to repair.

There are many cost-effective solutions for crack repair that offer long-term benefits. For example, installing carbon fiber straps isn’t costly. These straps last for years and provide long-term benefits for your foundation. Discuss your needs with your contractor and find a cost effective solution for the repair of your foundation cracks.

  1. You can’t sell your home with basement wall cracks

While cracks in foundation walls often put off buyers, it is not impossible to sell your home with cracks in the foundation. However, it is best to repair the cracks before putting your home on the market. You will get a better price for the house that way.

If you have a cracked foundation, be sure to discuss your needs with a professional contractor. This will ensure you have all the information you need to make the best choice.

Contact the Professionals at Select Basement Waterproofing Today! (732) 526-7770