Houses slip and slide with the earth beneath them. It can happen over time or can happen suddenly, like with extreme temperature changes. So, it doesn’t matter if your house is old or new—foundation cracks are inevitable.
Some cracks, however, can be more severe than others. It’s important to know which types of foundation cracks are more serious in order to prevent slab foundation damage. Just remember, cracks will always get worst over time, so in general it is best to be proactive about your foundation settling, before it gets worse.
Determining the foundation cracks that are more serious
Check your slab foundation for any cracks or gaps. Even a crack that is 1/16” wide can become a problem because it allows moisture into your slab, compromising its integrity. Hairline foundation cracks are normal and to be expected. However, cracks larger than 1/8” should be carefully monitored.
If you have spotted cracks and are keeping an eye on them, be sure to check for other signs of foundation issues including basement wall cracks, crevices in brick exteriors, and doors that start sticking or no longer close correctly.
Vertical Foundation Cracks
Vertical cracks are wider at the bottom than the top. Cracks that move up and down tend to be associated with soil movement, such as soil expanding and contracting due to extreme weather. Nebraska is known for its extreme weather, so vertical cracks are quite common.
If you spot a hairline crack, don’t be worried! Continue to monitor them. If you see that they are getting larger, consult with a foundation repair expert.
Horizontal Foundation Cracks
Horizontal cracks are a bit more concerning. Horizontal cracks can move to connecting walls, leading to potential foundation failure. These foundation cracks can be caused by water or soil pressure, which likely means you have drainage problems or extreme soil movement. This could lead to bowing walls and potentially walls that break.
If you spot horizontal cracks in your foundation, basement walls, or brick exterior, call a professional foundation repair company right away. They can lead to serious structural foundation damage and even cause a house to collapse.
Diagonal Foundation Cracks
Most commonly found on slab foundations and brick exteriors, diagonal cracks are from foundation settlement. They are typically 30-75 degrees from an upright vertical position. It can also be caused by concrete shrinkage, meaning your concrete foundation was not mixed properly when the foundation was created.
Diagonal cracks, as the name can insinuate, are somewhat in between horizontal and vertical cracks when it comes to severity. Keep an eye on if the gap increases, and if it begins to straighten out horizontally, call your foundation repair company immediately.
Stair Step Foundation Cracks
Similar to vertical cracks, these are often associated with foundation settling. While the soil moves underneath, so does the house. The best course of action is to stabilize your foundation with foundation piers. A foundation repair contractor can assess the amount of foundation piers you will need to have installed.
If you have noticed any foundation cracks and are worried about the foundation of your home, contact BDB Foundation Repair. We offer foundation repair in Omaha including basement crack repair, foundation piers, and drainage solutions. Call for a free estimate at 402-779-3165.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which foundation crack type is considered the most serious?
Horizontal foundation cracks are usually the most serious because they often signal pressure from shifting soil or water buildup that can weaken walls and lead to major structural failure.
Are small vertical foundation cracks dangerous?
Small vertical foundation cracks are often caused by normal settling and concrete shrinkage, but homeowners should still monitor them closely to make sure the cracks do not widen over time.
What causes diagonal cracks in a foundation?
Diagonal foundation cracks are commonly caused by uneven settling, soil movement, or shrinking concrete. They can become serious if the crack widens or begins turning horizontal later.
When should you worry about stair-step foundation cracks?
You should worry about stair-step cracks when gaps grow larger, blocks shift out of place, or walls begin bowing, because these signs may point to foundation settlement and movement.
Can foundation cracks lead to water damage problems?
Yes, foundation cracks can allow moisture to enter the basement or crawl space, leading to mold growth, wall damage, drainage issues, and weakening of the concrete structure over time.