Cracks in foundations happen silently and quickly. One day your foundation looks fine, and the next day there appears to be a gaping crack on the wall.
A single crack doesn't necessarily mean your house's structure is damaged. But you need to have an expert look at it if you have multiple deep cracks or if water is seeping through. The experts can determine if your foundation is beyond repair.
Keep reading to learn more about the signs of foundation cracks and repairing foundation damage.
Twisting Cracks
A twisting crack indicates a serious need for foundation repair. If your crack doesn't move in a single direction but rather branches off in a different direction, you have a twisting crack. The causes of foundation damage like this can stem from a shifting foundation caused by water damage or saturated soil around the home.
Quickly Increasing Cracks
Contractors can repair small cracks, but when the cracks begin to widen, you will run into a problem. If the crack is too wide, your contractor cannot reasonably repair it. A collapsing foundation often causes big cracks.
Uneven Floors
When you have uneven or sloped floors, it’s an indication you have some shifting of the foundation or bad structural design. You might not have noticed a damaged foundation, but sloped floors can lead to floor beams and joists bending.
Bulging Walls
When your basement walls begin to bulge, you have too much water pressure around your home. The foundation can no longer hold back the pressure. If the walls bulge too much, a contractor will not be able to repair them.
Widening Vertical Cracks Above Ground
Vertical foundation cracks are usually less serious than horizontal cracks. These are normal cracks that contractors can repair. Vertical cracks are typically caused by the foundation settling or the concrete curing process. If the cracks become wider at the top than at the bottom, though, you have some severe foundation damage.
Causes of a Foundation Beyond Repair
Several things can cause foundation damage. You could have faulty concrete from the start, a material that cannot withstand the pressure around it.
More likely, though, is a combination of temperature, water, and soil causing foundation problems. Excessive amounts of water can put pressure on a foundation and cause it to crack. Quickly increasing or decreasing temperature can also cause a foundation to crack.
Whatever the case, if you notice foundation damage, you should immediately call a foundation specialist. Waterproofing and foundation contractors understand the ins and outs of concrete and why your foundation may be cracking. They can recommend solutions that will stabilize your foundation and the structural integrity of your home.
Stay Grounded With A Strong Foundation
If you notice any signs we listed today, you should call a professional to inspect your basement. Leaving cracks unrepaired can lead to more serious issues and an expensive repair bill.
Contact Bol-Dan Foundation and Masonry Inc in Ottawa for professional and reliable foundation repair services. We'd love to help you solve your foundation problems.