Signs and Causes Of Foundation Cracks And How Warerproofing Can Help

Foundation cracks are one of the most common problems homeowners face. They can appear in different sizes and shapes, with severity ranging from minor to major. However, regardless of their appearance, foundation cracks should never be ignored, as they can lead to serious structural damage if left untreated.

Today, we will discuss the signs and causes of foundation cracks. We will also explore how waterproofing can help prevent and address these issues.

Signs of Foundation Cracks

1) Wall cracks

Wall cracks are one of the most obvious signs of foundation issues. These can appear as vertical, horizontal, or diagonal lines on walls, and may vary in width and length.

Vertical cracks are typically caused by settlement, while horizontal and diagonal cracks can indicate more serious problems, such as bowing or shifting.

2) Uneven floors

If you notice your floors are sloping or uneven, it could be a sign of foundation problems. Over time, foundations can settle or shift due to various factors, such as soil erosion, moisture levels, or even poor construction.

This movement can cause the floors above to become uneven and out of level, which may lead to further structural issues if not addressed.

3) Sticking doors and windows

If your doors and windows suddenly start sticking or becoming difficult to open and close, it could be due to foundation issues. Over time, environmental factors such as soil expansion and contraction, or even poor construction methods, can cause your home’s foundation to shift.

As the foundation moves, it often leads to changes in the position and alignment of door and window frames, making them misaligned and harder to operate.

4) Cracks in exterior walls

Cracks on the outside walls of your home may also indicate underlying foundation problems. These cracks often manifest in distinct patterns, such as stair-step or zigzag formations, which can be concerning.

They may be accompanied by noticeable gaps between bricks or siding, suggesting a shift in the structural integrity of the building.

Causes of Foundation Cracks

There are various factors that can contribute to the formation of foundation cracks, including:

• Poor drainage: When water is not properly diverted away from the foundation, it can seep into the soil and cause it to expand and contract. This constant movement puts pressure on the foundation, leading to cracks.
• Soil type: Certain types of soil, such as clay and expansive soils, are more prone to movement and can cause the foundation to shift or settle.
• Tree roots: As trees grow, their roots can extend into the soil underneath a foundation. If these roots push against the foundation, it can cause cracks.
• Poor construction: In some cases, improper construction techniques or materials used during building can lead to weak foundations that are more susceptible to cracking.

How Waterproofing Can Help

Waterproofing your foundation is an effective way to prevent and address foundation cracks.

By keeping water away from your home’s foundation, you can help reduce the risk of soil expansion and contraction, which is a major cause of foundation cracks. Some common waterproofing techniques include:

• Installing gutters and downspouts to divert water away from the foundation.
• Grading the soil around your home so that it slopes away from the foundation.
• Repairing any leaks in plumbing or drainage systems that could cause excess moisture near the foundation.
• Applying waterproof coatings or sealants on the exterior walls of your home to prevent water penetration.

If you’ve noticed foundation cracks, professional waterproofing can help address these issues and prevent further damage. This may include repairing cracks, strengthening foundation areas, or installing drainage systems to redirect water.

Takeaway

Foundation cracks are a common issue that should never be ignored.

By knowing the signs and causes of foundation cracks, you can take proactive measures to prevent them from happening. Additionally, investing in professional waterproofing can help protect your home’s foundation and avoid costly repairs in the future.

Remember, a strong foundation is crucial for the structural integrity of your home, so it’s important to address any issues as soon as they arise.