Types of Cracks in your Basement Foundation Wall

The most common basement foundation wall cracks are simple hairline cracks and they typically develop within the first month to a year. Structurally, these cracks usually pose no threat, however, they can be the cause of water leakage.

These minor hairline cracks usually run vertically or at an angle, which indicates that shrinkage or settling has occured. These types of vertical cracks are pretty easily repaired, particularly with the CrackShield Dual Process.

Horizontal cracks, however, are much more serious and typically an indicator of larger issues. Clay soils will expand when wet and contract when dry. If a residential home is built on this type of clay, the lateral pressure exerted on the foundation walls can be substantial and potentially dangerous. Walls under lateral pressure can bow, especially along the midpoint of the wall, and can be structurally unstable.

For any cracks that are more than a 1/4-inch wide, are horizontal, continuously moving or have misaligned edges should be looked at by a professional contractor or basement waterproofer for an assessment.

The typical repairs employed by foundation wall crack repair professionals are slab jacking and piering. We'll discuss these foundation wall crack repairs and more in the next article from CrackShield.