Foundation Cracks: Causes, Warning Signs, and How to Fix Them

Cracks in a concrete foundation can vary greatly. Some cracks are harmless, while others may suggest major structural concerns.

We will help you identify the different types of cracks and their causes, providing you with important insights and guidance on when to seek expert assistance.

Foundation cracks are separations or openings that develop in the concrete base of your home. They can vary in shape and size. It is normal for cracks to form within the initial months after construction due to material shrinkage, which usually does not raise concern.

However, certain cracks may expand or begin to allow water penetration, which could result in serious consequences. In such cases, it is crucial to contact professionals who can effectively handle foundation repair Toronto.

Let’s examine various types of cracks in foundation to determine which cases require intervention.

Vertical Cracks

Vertical foundation cracks are the most common in monolithic foundations, running straight up and down the wall. They occur due to shrinkage or the natural curing process of concrete.

A vertical crack in foundation, that shows no signs of moisture and cannot fit a coin does not usually cause concern. In such cases, monitoring or repairing it with epoxy resin is sufficient.

Horizontal Cracks

Horizontal cracks in the foundation are a rather serious issue. They appear due to soil instability or water pressure on the foundation wall. Addressing such cracks requires professional assistance.

Diagonal Cracks

Most diagonal cracks in the foundation do not pose a threat. They usually form at an angle of up to 30 degrees and may be caused by the natural curing process of concrete or gradual foundation settling.

A diagonal crack that increases in size over six months, however, presents a concern.

Hairline Cracks

These cracks usually appear in the foundations of newly constructed homes within the first year. They are caused by the shrinkage and drying of concrete. Hairline cracks are merely cosmetic and can be repaired by homeowners themselves.

Structural Crack

Structural cracks in the foundation wall pose a risk to the stability of the house. They appear uneven, and their width is usually greater than ¼ inch. Such cracks typically occur due to foundation movement caused by:

• changes in temperature;
• soil pressure;
• shrinkage

If a crack in basement foundation allows moisture to seep through, it is crucial to seek professional help immediately. Otherwise, weather changes will exacerbate the crack and lead to new problems.

Stair Cracks

Block foundations are frequently susceptible to stair-step cracks, which can affect the structural integrity of the building.

The primary causes of these cracks are:

1. Foundation settlement in one section.
2. Moisture problems along the foundation.

If a coin can fit into the crack, it is crucial to seek professional inspection immediately.

Cracks in Foundation Slabs

Over time, concrete foundation slabs may start to crack. It is essential to understand the causes of these cracks, which include:

1. Natural shrinkage and drying of the concrete slab, which does not threaten the structural integrity.
2. Slab settlement caused by soil problems or poor soil characteristics.

Moreover, a concrete slab situated at or above ground level can crack and warp if water beneath it freezes.

To identify the cause and find the right solution, it’s best to consult experts.

Recognizing the causes is the first step in addressing the problem and preventing further damage. Key factors leading to foundation cracks include:

Soil Movement and Settlement

The type and properties of the soil play a major role in the foundation’s condition. Soils rich in clay are especially susceptible to expanding and contracting, which raises the risk of foundation cracks. Proper soil compaction during construction is vital to prevent potential settlement issues.

Water Damage and Poor Drainage

Improper drainage, leaks in plumbing systems, and extreme weather conditions can result in a cracked foundation. Maintaining the correct slope of the ground around the house and regularly servicing gutters can help avoid these problems.

Temperature Fluctuations

Frequent temperature changes combined with high humidity can negatively impact the foundation’s condition. If the foundation lacks sufficient flexibility (e.g., expansion joints), it may crack under pressure caused by temperature variations.

Construction Issues

The absence of reinforcement or improperly conducted construction work can cause foundation damage. Frequent inspections and prompt repairs are essential to avoid significant structural issues.

Here are some key signs to watch for to identify issues early:

Visible Cracks in Walls or Floors

The most obvious sign that requires constant monitoring. It is especially important to pay attention to vertical or diagonal cracks on the walls, as they may indicate stress on the foundation.

Doors and Windows Misaligning

If doors and windows begin to close poorly, it could be due to foundation movement. This process often changes the shape of the wall and disrupts the proper alignment of window and door frames.

Uneven Floors or Tilting

Uneven floors may indicate foundation issues. For example, floor sagging can point to foundation settlement.

Persistent Water Leaks

If moisture or mold appears in the basement, this may also indicate cracks or damage to the foundation’s waterproofing.

Some minor foundation issues can be fixed independently. For instance, small cosmetic cracks up to 1/4 inch wide can be repaired using epoxy resin or polyurethane foam.

If a house foundation crack is wider than 1/4 inch or has reappeared, it is best to consult experts.

There are various methods for repairing foundation cracks, depending on the severity of the defects and their causes.

Epoxy Injection

Epoxy resin is typically used to repair small, cosmetic cracks that do not affect the structural integrity.

Concrete Patching

Concrete mortar is used to fill small cracks that do not disrupt the foundation’s structure.

Carbon Fiber Staples or Straps

For repairing horizontal and structural cracks where foundation strength needs to be restored, carbon fiber staples or straps are used.

Underpinning

To address significant cracks caused by foundation movement, strengthening the foundation is necessary. Underpinning in Toronto is a reliable solution for complex issues.

Sealants and Waterproof Coatings

If basement cracks lead to water infiltration, they should be sealed with sealants (such as polyurethane foam) and waterproofing coatings.

Drainage Improvement

If cracks have occurred due to water accumulation or poor drainage around the foundation, it is advisable to take measures to improve it. For example, perform waterproofing and install drainage channels.

Preventive measures can help avoid foundation problems and extend the lifespan of the home structure.

Regular Maintenance and Inspections

Regularly inspect the foundation to detect new cracks or monitor changes in existing ones. Also, address small defects promptly to prevent them from escalating into major issues.

Controlling Water Around the Foundation

Control water entry into the home. Ensure that gutters, downspouts, and drainage systems are clear of debris. This will help prevent water accumulation and the formation of basement foundation cracks.

Proper Landscaping Practices

If water continues to accumulate around the house after rain, despite clean gutters, consider re-landscaping. Try to place trees and large shrubs farther from the foundation to avoid damage from their roots and fluctuations in soil moisture.

The cost of foundation repair depends on the extent of the damage and the repair methods used.

Small cracks that do not threaten the structural integrity of the foundation can be fixed relatively cheaply. Typically, epoxy resin or other sealing methods are used.

If the foundation issues are more severe, costs increase significantly. For example, major foundation repair may involve costly tasks such as wall reinforcement or underpinning.

By adopting effective maintenance and prevention strategies, homeowners can boost their property value and minimize future expenses.

In addition to measures aimed at preventing future foundation deformation, investing in modern monitoring systems is essential. These systems allow homeowners to:

• track moisture levels and foundation movement;
• identify potential issues early and prevent them before they become serious.

Such smart systems also increase the home’s value when selling.

Sometimes, simply sealing cracks is insufficient to address the underlying foundation defects. For long-term results, seek maintenance services from the experts at Quality Age Build.

We will offer modern solutions and techniques for foundation repair that ensure your home’s strength and stability for many years to come.

Foundation cracks are a frequent concern for homeowners. Recognizing the types of cracks, their causes, and their severity is essential to preserving the structural integrity and value of your home.

If you’re unsure about the severity of a crack in foundation wall or have observed other signs of foundation damage, reach out to experts. Addressing the issue promptly can help you save both time and money.