What Different Wall Cracks Mean
If you have a home, chances are, you have a few wall cracks.
Usually, they are nothing more than a minor annoyance. Perhaps a minor bit of foundation settlement, or shrinkage of drywall or plaster.
At other times, however, they can be a warning sign of structural problems in your home. That’s why it is essential to know when to apply a quick cosmetic fix and when to schedule a foundation inspection.
Which Direction Are the Cracks Going?
Vertical Cracks
These are the least likely signs of serious foundation problems, especially if they are minor.
Plaster, in particular, can be prone to expanding and contracting slightly as humidity levels fluctuate. This is normal and might cause some hairline cracks. Similar issues can occur along seams in drywall.
Outside of a few exceptions we’ll note later, these are likely to be cosmetic.
Diagonal or Stairstep Cracks
Diagonal cracks, however, should spark significantly greater concern.
These are often caused by structural movement, which can lead to foundation problems. As the foundation settles, it stresses the structure above and will begin to cause cracking. This will often occur in a generally diagonal pattern or a stairstep shape (especially if you are dealing with masonry).
If you begin seeing diagonal cracks in your walls, it might be time to consult a foundation expert.
Horizontal Cracks
Horizontal cracks can also be severe and sometimes result from structural movement.
There is a second symptom that sometimes accompanies horizontal cracks that needs to be taken even more seriously. If your wall begins to bow (often with the cracks pointing in the middle), contact a foundation repair contractor immediately.
Bowing walls are often observed in basements as a result of the pressure exerted by the soil on the walls, especially when water is accumulating near the foundation. We can stabilize the walls against these forces.
Don’t wait to contact a foundation professional in these cases. The problems causing the cracks won’t solve themselves and will likely only get worse with inaction.
How Big is the Wall Crack?
When it comes to cracks, the wider they are, the more likely they are to indicate a severe problem.
Even vertical cracks, if they are wide enough, need to be examined by a professional.
If those vertical cracks are a hairline or slightly larger, simply monitor them to ensure they don’t widen. If they become wider than half a centimeter, however, it is time to call in a professional to identify the causes and make the necessary repairs.
Is the Crack Growing?
A crack that is growing, getting wider and or longer, is a sign of an ongoing issue, structural or otherwise, that is affecting the walls.
That is why even hairline cracks should be monitored to ensure they do not become larger. If they are, contact a professional specializing in foundation repair.
Where are the Wall Cracks?
Location doesn’t just matter in real estate. A crack in a plaster or drywall wall on the main level of a home is likely to have a different cause than one in a concrete basement or foundation wall.
While those foundation cracks might not harm the home’s aesthetics as much, they also tend to be more serious. Even vertical foundation cracks are often caused by settlement issues. If the crack is just a hairline, the settlement is likely minor. If it continues to grow, however …
Contact the Foundation Professionals at Alliance Inc.
If you have wall cracks that might be signs of foundation issues, contact the foundation repair specialists at Alliance Inc. We serve Duluth, Minn., and the surrounding area.