Common Causes of Foundation Cracks

Homeowners must know why a particular crack has appeared before repairing them.

Foundation cracks can be worrying for homeowners. However, not all cracks indicate problems with the home's structural integrity. Some are simply a result of concrete shrinkage, while others might come from soil creep. Homeowners must know why a particular crack has appeared before repairing them.

Here are the common causes of foundation cracks:

Expansive soil causes cracks

The soil that surrounds a property can contain large deposits of clay in it. This leads to expansive soil that moves around the structure. When moisture gets in, the clay expands, shrinks, and then dries out. The soil movement during this process can cause foundation issues such as cracking and instability. Homeowners should call a professional to identify such instances of soil movement.

Changes in weather affecting soil

Extreme weather changes will make structural problems more pronounced. Heavy rain causes soil to swell up and hold more mass, affecting the structure. Likewise, long dry spells will cause that same soil to shrink. The leftover moisture may freeze in cold environments, adding stress to the foundation. Sudden weather changes make minor soil issues more severe and noticeable through cracks and damage.

Soil creep and structural integrity

Soil creep is a common cause of cracks in homes that rest on a slope. Over time, dirt and other sediments from the hilltop can slowly fall before resting against the bottom foundation. This creates lateral stress and potential cracks.

However, this won't be the case for all hillside homes. Soil creep often depends on elements of soil composition, such as moisture, clay content, and vegetation. Professionals usually install retaining walls and other protective measures to mitigate soil creep in vulnerable homes.

Excavation close to the foundation

Any excavation work close to the foundation can suddenly cause cracks. Excessive digging may lead to soil becoming uneven and unstable. As excavation continues, it might cause drainage issues, further disturbing the foundation's structural integrity. Professionals can mitigate this by practicing proper construction techniques such as evaluation, drainage management, and soil compaction.

Drainage issues affecting the foundation

Drainage is the most common cause of foundation cracks for most homeowners. As water builds up around the foundation, the walls bow inward due to hydrostatic pressure, eventually cracking. Drainage can also trigger other foundation issues, such as soil expansion, to become especially pronounced. Professionals frequently recommend an optimal drainage system like a sump pump, or French drains to eliminate excess water.

Prevent foundation cracks

Foundation cracks are a sign you might have issues with your home's structural integrity. Mitigating the problem takes expertise and specialized equipment for accurate and secure installations. It's best to contact a professional to be safe. They'll be able to evaluate the foundation's integrity and recommend the best solution to prevent the issue from worsening.