Making Old Like New Again

Posted on: 4 February 2022

Many people don't realize that the damage may extend beyond just their homes. Foundation cracks are no joke; they can cause stability issues and future problems if not addressed early on. There is a range of issues that can cause your foundation to crack; however, more than likely, it's going to be due to water damage. Rain will erode away at your foundation over time, and as soon as you get cracks forming here and there, they will only get worse over time. Overall you should be looking for advice on a solid solution that will help you fix the problem once and for all. The following foundation crack repair information will help you deal with these issues when you are restoring your home:

What is a Foundation Crack?

A foundation crack is any crack, separation, or displacement of a building's foundation. The cracks can be caused by a variety of reasons, including soil settling, water damage, and temperature changes. Foundation cracks are considered major structural problems that can cause a lot of problems for your home if left ignored.

To start repairing the cracks, you need to determine the severity of the problem. Is it a small crack or separation that is superficial in nature? Or is it something more serious like an unstable foundation? Depending on the damage, there are several solutions available to fix the problem that meet your budgetary needs and cover the extent of the damage.

What Causes Foundation Cracks?

Foundation cracks can happen for a variety of reasons.

The most obvious culprit is water damage. If a home has a problem with water or moisture getting into the basement, it can lead to serious foundation cracking. The moisture can weaken the building materials and cause them to crack, which can then result in structural damage that makes the problem even worse.

Some people also experience foundation cracks due to shifting soil conditions. If the ground underneath their home moves too much, it can lead to foundation problems. The same is true if there are underground streams or pipes near the home that cause the soil to move.

Another common reason for foundation cracks is the shifting of load-bearing walls in a home. Many houses have walls that help hold up the roof and keep everything stable. When those walls shift, it can change how much weight is placed on the foundation and cause problems.

Finally, some people experience problems with their foundation due to settling issues in the land around their homes. When land settles — especially over time — it makes issues with a home's foundation more likely.

Water and Foundation Damage

Water entering your home through cracks in the foundation can cause severe damage to the structure of the home. This water damage is often referred to as wet basement syndrome. Foundation cracks are usually caused by settlement, erosion, or improper drainage. Slight settlement of the soil around a house may not be visible on the surface, but it can be felt when walking on the floor above. If you feel any kind of movement underfoot, you should inspect the foundation for cracks immediately.

The Costs of Foundation Crack Repairs 

Your home is the largest investment that you will ever make. If you have noticed foundation cracks or any other signs of damage to your home's foundation, it is important to repair the cracks before they get worse. This gives you peace of mind knowing that your new home is structurally sound and safe.

The cost of a foundation crack repair can vary greatly depending on the size, cause, and location of the crack. Some contractors may be able to give you a more accurate cost after they inspect the damage to your foundation. 

If your foundation is beginning to crack, contact a cracked foundation repair service to deal with these issues.