Foundation Cracking Up? Foundation Crack Repair Is No Joke!
Foundations are the most crucial part of any building, as they bear the weight of the entire structure. However, even the most robust foundations may develop cracks over time for various reasons, such as soil settlement, hydrostatic pressure, or natural disasters like earthquakes.
But is it normal to have these cracks in the foundation?
How can you spot these cracks?
What are the different types of foundation cracks?
Why is foundation crack repair necessary?
Can you do it yourself, or do you need a professional?
This article will answer all these questions and provide a step-by-step guide to foundation crack repair.
Is It Normal to Have a Crack in Foundation?
A crack in the foundation is prevalent and does not necessarily mean your foundation is failing. However, not all these cracks are the same; some may require immediate attention. It is essential to identify the type of crack to determine the level of repair needed.
How Can You Spot a Crack?
You can spot a crack by inspecting your foundation regularly. Look for these cracks on the exterior, interior, or basement floors. You may also notice signs of cracking, such as doors and windows that stick or won't close properly, sloping floors or gaps between walls and ceilings.
Different Types of Foundation Cracks
Starting with Hairline Cracks
These are thin cracks that are less than 1/16th of an inch wide and do not penetrate the entire thickness of the foundation. They usually appear due to minor settling and are not a significant cause for concern.
The Appearance of a Vertical Crack
Vertical cracks run straight up and down and are usually caused by settling or drying shrinkage. They can be severe if wider than 1/4th of an inch, but they may not require immediate attention if narrow.
Here Come the Horizontal Cracks
Horizontal cracks appear due to hydrostatic pressure, which occurs when water builds up around the foundation. They are a significant cause for concern as they can cause structural damage to the foundation.
Stair-Step Cracks
Stair-step cracks are diagonal cracks between a foundation's concrete blocks or bricks. They are caused by settling or soil pressure and may require immediate attention.
Diagonal Cracks
Diagonal cracks appear due to settling or soil pressure and can indicate a severe problem with the foundation's structural integrity.
The Necessity of Foundation Crack Repair
Foundation cracks can occur for various reasons, including natural building settling, soil movement, improper construction, or extreme weather conditions. While a few of these cracks are harmless, others indicate significant foundation damage requiring immediate attention.
If left untreated, foundation cracks can lead to water leakage, which can cause mold growth and structural issues that can compromise the stability of the building. The longer you wait to address foundation cracks, the more costly and extensive the repairs will be.
DIY or Professional Hiring
While DIY foundation crack repair may seem like a cost-effective solution, it is not a wise move. These require specialized knowledge and equipment, and any mistakes during the repair process can lead to more significant structural issues.
Hiring a professional foundation repair company is the best option for repairing foundation cracks. A professional company has the knowledge, experience, and equipment necessary to assess the extent of the damage and consider repairing it effectively.
Step-by-Step Repairing
Professional foundation repair companies follow a specific process for repairing foundation cracks. Here are the general steps involved in foundation crack repair process:
Step 1: Inspection
The first step is to inspect the foundation for any cracks and assess the extent of the damage.
Step 2: Preparation
Once the cracks become apparent, the surrounding area is cleaned and prepared for repair.
Step 3: Repair
Repair involves injecting an epoxy or polyurethane foam into the crack, filling it to prevent further water leakage and stabilizing the foundation.
Step 4: Finishing
After cleaning and removing excess materials, the foundation repair pros leave the repaired area to dry, and a sealant is applied to ensure that the crack does not reappear.
Ram Jack By American Leveling Company - Your Solution for Foundation Crack Repair
Ram Jack By American Leveling Company is here to help if you require foundation crack repair. Our team of professionals has the knowledge, experience and equipment necessary to assess and repair foundation cracks effectively.
We understand the importance of maintaining the structural integrity of your building and offer comprehensive foundation repair services, including foundation crack, slab and pier and beam foundation repair.
Contact us today for a free inspection and estimate. Don't wait until it's too late - let us help you maintain the integrity of your building.