Your foundation supports the entire structure of your home. It is important to keep an eye on cracks and have them repaired when necessary.
A professional can help you find the best option for repairing your concrete foundation cracks. They have specialized training and access to tools that are not available to homeowners. They can also integrate waterproofing to prevent future water infiltration and further damage. Contact Foundation Crack Repair Bismarck for professional help.
Hairline cracks are narrow, shallow lines in your foundation wall that run vertically. These tiny cracks are less than a quarter inch wide, and they typically appear in newly-built homes as the concrete cures or settles slightly. They may also form over time from weather changes like temperature fluctuations or seasonal humidity swings, which cause building materials to expand and contract.
While these cracks aren’t a major cause for concern, it’s important to monitor them over time to see if they widen. If they do, you should contact a foundation specialist to schedule an inspection and repair work.
Hairline cracks can sometimes be repaired using DIY methods like concrete patching compounds or specialized foundation crack fillers designed to fit in narrow gaps. However, professional epoxy injection is a better solution for longer-lasting results. Epoxy injection involves injecting a high-strength epoxy resin into the crack, which fills it and restores its structural integrity. This method is especially effective for cracked concrete in wet areas, such as basements and crawl spaces.
Horizontal cracks on the surface of foundation walls or stair-step cracks in brick or block foundations are more serious than hairline cracks and can indicate uneven settling or moisture problems. They also signal the presence of hydrostatic pressure, which causes soil to push against the foundation wall.
To determine whether horizontal or stair-step cracks are a serious concern, use the penny test: Hold a copper penny against the wall and see if the crack is wider than the coin. If it is, it’s best to consult a foundation specialist as soon as possible.
While the severity of foundation cracks differs, all of them can compromise a building’s stability and lead to costly repairs if left unchecked. If you’ve noticed any cracks in your foundation, it’s essential to schedule a free foundation inspection as soon as possible to ensure the health and safety of your home or business. Call Stratum Structural Systems today to set up a convenient time for a trained expert to assess the severity of your cracks and recommend a repair strategy.
Cracks Wider Than a Hairline
Wider cracks are a clear sign that there is a problem, and it is important to take them seriously. Cracks that are wider than a quarter-inch are often caused by structural movement, which requires professional foundation repair services. They are typically accompanied by other signs, such as doors and windows that no longer open properly, sloping floors, or water pooling around the foundation.
Fortunately, these larger cracks can be repaired using a variety of methods. Many experts recommend hydraulic cement to fill and seal the cracks, as it is very effective and is a relatively inexpensive method of repair. In addition to crack injection, there are also many other techniques for repairing more severe or widespread cracks. These can include methods like carbon fiber strips, steel braces, and helical piers, which help stabilize the foundation and prevent further cracking.
Before applying crack filler, it is important to clean the area of any loose debris, dust, or paint. It is also important to scrub the area with a wire brush to ensure that the crack filler adheres properly. It is a good idea to use safety glasses and a dust mask when doing this.
Once the area has been cleaned, a polyurethane or silicone concrete caulk can be applied to the interior side of the crack. This is a great solution because it will be able to flex with changes in the weather, helping to alleviate stress on the foundation. It is also a good idea to apply waterproof masonry sealer after the application of the caulk to prevent further water infiltration.
It is not advisable to wait for a full foundation repair service before taking action when dealing with wider cracks. Even though hydraulic cement may be a temporary solution for smaller cracks, it is not suitable for addressing problems that are caused by ongoing foundation movement. It is therefore a good idea to consult with a foundation repair specialist as soon as you notice any cracks in your home. This will give them the chance to assess the situation and recommend the best course of action for a long-lasting and effective repair.
Cracks Wider Than a Fissure
Foundation cracks that are wider than a hairline or that seem to be getting worse over time are often a sign of more serious issues. These cracks can cause damage to your home or building and should be addressed by a professional right away to prevent further issues.
When this type of crack appears in your foundation, it typically means there is significant pressure on the sides of your house from soil movement and changes in moisture levels. Depending on the severity of the crack, it may need to be repaired with internal or external repairs. Internal repair methods involve injecting a concrete-bonding resin into the crack, which fills the entire crack and secures it in place. Epoxy and polyurethane are both common types of resins used for this purpose.
These injections are usually less expensive than exterior repairs, which can be more costly and require excavation. Choosing the right type of resin depends on the location of the crack and its severity. Injections can be performed from the inside or outside of your house, though working from the outside is generally more effective for larger cracks as they may need to extend down to the basement level to be completely filled.
Another option for this type of crack is to use a technique called stitching. This involves drilling a series of holes along the crack, with each hole being lined up with the adjacent crack on one side and the other end of the wall. U-shaped metal bars are then inserted into the holes and anchored with epoxy or hydraulic cement to bridge the gap between the two walls. This method is highly effective and can be completed in a very short period of time.
A professional can also identify the underlying issue causing your foundation cracks and recommend a solution for it. This can include a number of different options such as hydraulic cement, epoxy injections, carbon fiber reinforcement, will pins, and steel I-beams. Choosing the right method for your unique situation will help ensure that your problem is diagnosed and resolved effectively and as quickly as possible.
Cracks Wider Than a Bulge
Generally speaking, cracks that are wider than a penny’s thickness are considered to be structural cracks and require immediate attention. This is a clear indication that your foundation is under stress and that you should have a professional evaluate it. Wider cracks also show that the pressure on your foundation has increased and may lead to further movement and deterioration.
Structural cracks are the result of settling and shifting soils around your foundation. These soils swell up with moisture during wet periods, then shrink when the weather turns dry. This puts a lot of pressure on the foundation, which can cause it to crack and bow inward. Depending on the type of crack and its location, it could be a sign of an unstable foundation or it could simply be a result of heaving soils.
Some of these cracks can be repaired using simple methods like epoxy or polyurethane injection. The injected resin travels quickly through the crack, filling it and sealing it from water penetration. This method is often effective for small cracks, but for bigger issues, additional techniques like carbon fiber strips or helical wall anchors may be necessary.
Another common method is to plug the crack with hydraulic cement. However, this is usually a temporary solution. The cracks will reopen within 6 months to a year due to expansion and contraction of the concrete. Additionally, the plugged crack will eventually become vulnerable to efflorescence, which is a white mineral salt in groundwater that breaks down the seal.
Regardless of how the cracks are repaired, it is always best to have a professional assess them and perform regular inspections. This will ensure that the cracks do not worsen and prevent the need for more invasive and costly repairs in the future.
A common warning sign of structural problems with your foundation is if doors or windows are difficult to open. This is a sign that the foundation has moved and requires immediate attention. Additionally, if the cracks in your foundation continue to widen or reappear after a repair is performed, this indicates that the underlying problem has not been fully addressed and needs further evaluation.
