House settling cracks are a common concern for property owners. While some cracks are harmless, others can indicate serious foundation problems that threaten the structural integrity of your home or commercial property.
It’s important to know what is a normal foundation crack, and when you should seek professional help.
We will discuss the various causes behind house settling cracks and how they can impact your home’s structural integrity. Additionally, you’ll learn when it’s time to call in professional foundation repair services to address these issues before they worsen.
Ready to take a closer look at those foundation cracks?
Watch: Why You Should Pay Attention To House Settling Cracks
Identifying House Settling Cracks
Recognizing the signs of house settling cracks is the first step for property owners to address potential foundation issues early on. There are several key indicators that can help you determine if that wall crack in your home requires a simple crack repair or indicates foundation damage.
- Visible gaps: Check for visible gaps in walls, floors, and ceilings as they may signal a settlement crack.
- Foundation cracks: Look for characteristics such as width greater than 1/4 inch or stair-step cracks.
- Vertical crack: Vertical cracks are more common, and might indicate normal settlement.
- Horizontal cracks: These can indicate more serious foundation damage.
- Sloping floors: Uneven or sloping floors could be a sign of an underlying problem with your foundation.
- Misaligned doors and windows: If doors and windows no longer fit properly or have difficulty opening/closing, it might indicate a shifting foundation.
If you are unsure about any cracks in your concrete slab, or looking for peace of mind regarding any structural problem, consult with our foundation repair experts at A-Best Foundation Repair: 713-714- 0015
To help you better understand the severity of these cracks, continue reading about different types of foundation cracks.
Different Types of House Settling Foundation Cracks
When it comes to foundation cracks, not all are created equal. Some cracks are normal and expected, while others can be a cause for concern.
It’s essential to know the difference between a normal settlement crack and cracks indicating structural damage.
As all new construction will have some houses settling, some of these “symptoms” may be normal:
Normal house settling cracks:
These are typically small, hairline cracks that occur as a result of natural settling or minor shrinkage during the concrete curing process.
They usually don’t pose any structural risk and a small crack or two can be easily repaired with some simple sealing techniques or other crack repair techniques.
Cracks that are a cause for concern:
Larger, horizontal, or diagonal cracks may indicate more serious issues such as soil movement or water damage causing uneven foundation settlement. Another symptom to look for is any concrete lifting.
If these types of cracks occur along with drywall cracks, a floor crack, or door and windows sticking, then it is time for a professional to take a closer look.
If you are concerned about the structural integrity of the building, and whether or not it’s safe to live in a house with foundation problems, you can find out more here.
Don’t forget about radon and pests:
Small cracks can cause other problems that you don’t want entering your home. Ants, termites and other pests can enter your home through these foundation cracks. Also, radon can enter your living space through these cracks.
Here’s where you can find out more about radon in your home.
If you notice these types of foundation settlement issues, don’t wait to consult with a professional Houston foundation repair service.
Causes of House Settling Cracks
House settling cracks are often the result of natural occurrences and environmental factors. Some common causes include:
- Soil movement: Houston’s expansive clay soils can expand or contract depending on moisture levels, leading to foundation shifts and cracks. You can fix some water drainage problems in your yard to help with this problem.
- Droughts and floods: Extreme weather conditions like droughts or floods can cause soil erosion or expansion, putting pressure on your property’s foundation.
- Poor construction practices: Inadequate site preparation, improper compaction, or using low-quality materials during construction may lead to house settling issues later on.
To protect your investment in your Houston property from these potential hazards, have a professional assess any concerns you have.
Professional Repair Services For House Settling Cracks
Hiring a professional foundation repair service is the only way to be sure that your house settling cracks are normal or more serious. Skilled technicians possess the capability, expertise, and resources to accurately diagnose the source of any foundation cracks and offer durable remedies.
- Thorough inspection: Professionals will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your property to identify all issues related to foundation cracks.
- Tailored solutions: They’ll develop customized repair plans based on your specific needs and budget constraints.
- Quality workmanship: A reputable company guarantees high-quality repairs that stand the test of time, giving you peace of mind about your investment.
Contacting an experienced foundation repair specialist is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of your home and preventing further damage due to settling cracks. If there is a problem, they can assist with basic house leveling, pier and beam repairs, or placing piers.
Final Thoughts on House Settling Cracks
Identifying the different types of foundation cracks and understanding their causes is an important first step in determining when to be worried about house settling cracks.
Monitoring these foundation cracks is another important tool in assessing the severity of the problem. Listening for house settling noises is another way to monitor your foundation.
If you notice any foundation settlement issues that worry you, or these foundation wall cracks seem to be getting worse, it’s best to seek professional foundation repair services right away.
Don’t procrastinate if you see something that could become a larger problem, as this may lead to greater costs and time invested in the future.
If you’re a Houston property owner concerned about your home’s foundation, contact A Best Foundation Repair today for expert advice and solutions.
Or call to schedule an appointment: 713-714-0015
FAQs Related to House Settling Cracks
As a Houston property owner, you probably have questions about house settling cracks. Here are some frequently asked questions on foundation settling:
Do all houses have settling cracks?
Most houses experience some degree of settling over time, which can lead to minor cracks. However, not all homes will develop significant or worrisome cracks.
Can settling cracks be repaired?
Yes, foundation cracks can be repaired. There are many techniques to professionally address foundation cracks along with additional foundation issues.
How can you tell if a crack is structural?
Structural issues typically present as horizontal or diagonal cracking in walls and foundations. If you’re unsure whether your home’s crack is structural, it’s best to consult with an expert in the field.
