When should I be concerned about basement floor cracks?
Cracks with heaving are signs of a bigger problem that needs to be addressed. When a basement floor crack is combined with heaving, this is a cause for concern. Heaving suggests that the soil beneath the basement floor is expanding. Heaving is especially common in areas with clay soil.
How do you know if a foundation crack is serious?
If the crack is located closer to a corner and is wider than 1/8 in, it is probably not due to shrinkage but indicates a more serious foundation issue. If your vertical foundation crack is wider than 1/8 of an inch, call a professional to get it inspected as it may be a cause for concern.
Is it normal to have cracks in basement walls?
It’s not uncommon to be in any basement and notice a few cracks here or there. Yes, they can be frustrating to the homeowner, but they’re a common occurrence. Stress points are one of the reasons cracks are created in your walls. They can occur when you’re installing lines for the electric, gas or sewer.
Are cracks in foundation floor normal?
The short answer is yes—cracks in concrete floors are normal, if not inevitable. As concrete cures, it will naturally develop tiny cracks as the mix dries and water evaporates. Over time, your concrete basement floors may also crack due to uniform settlement.
What do structural cracks look like?
The cracks run diagonally Jagged cracks that move in a diagonal direction or look like a set of stairs moving up your wall could be a sign of structural movement and may be slightly more serious than cracks that simply run up and down.
How common are vertical cracks in house foundation?
Vertical Foundation Cracks Don’t worry a lot about these types of foundation cracks, as they’re a common sight in many homes and non-threatening. They’re usually caused by rains that exert pressure on the foundation or concrete tension in newly built homes (every two years or so).
Should I worry about cracks in my foundation?
If you see foundation wall cracks of this type, it is probably time to call for an inspection, as this could indicate a serious structural problem with your home’s foundation and is often associated with a foundation sinking or settlement problem.
Should I worry about cracks in my concrete floor?
Generally, cracks in your floor are nothing to worry yourself over. The only time that you might be concerned is if the cracks start changing vertically, suggesting that there is some settling happening.