Foundation cracks are one of the most common problems in homes. Some cracks are minor; they occur as your foundation cures and can be ignored. However, some cracks may seem minor but actually indicate an underlying foundation problem. These cracks need to be fixed in order to prevent major structural issues. In this blog, we will discuss the types of foundation cracks in detail and explore four expert ways to fix foundation cracks permanently.
Types of Foundation Cracks
Different types of foundation cracks represent different levels of damage. Here are some of the most common types of foundation cracks.
Hairline Cracks
Hairline cracks are very small, shallow splits in the concrete. They are usually harmless if they are less than ⅛ inch wide. Hairline cracks usually occur during the curing process, but they can also be a sign of soil settlement or temperature changes.
Vertical Cracks
Vertical cracks are another common type of foundation cracks. They are also minor cracks, often caused by normal settling and concrete curing. However, wider vertical cracks can let water in, which can cause issues like mold growth and bowing walls.
Diagonal Cracks
Diagonal cracks in the foundation indicate settlement, particularly differential settlement, in which one part of the foundation sinks more than the other. Diagonal foundation cracks require immediate professional attention for comprehensive repairs.
Horizontal Cracks
Horizontal cracks are serious foundation cracks that indicate significant inward pressure caused by saturated soil, also known as hydrostatic pressure. If not addressed on time, horizontal foundation cracks can cause bowing walls and potential structural failure.
4 Ways to Fix a Foundation Crack
There are various ways to fix a foundation crack, depending on the type of crack and the underlying cause. Here are four expert-approved ways to fix foundation cracks:
Hydraulic Cement
Hydraulic cement is a popular method for fixing cracks in a foundation. Hydraulic cement sets and expands very quickly to create a tight seal over the cracks. It’s also excellent for stopping active water leaks and maintaining a durable structure. Although it’s a temporary fix for sealing cracks and stopping water seepage, the good thing is that it’s an easy and quick DIY repair method.
Epoxy Injections
Epoxy injections are a reliable foundation repair method that helps bond the fractured sections of the cracked concrete back together. This method involves injecting a low-viscosity, high-strength epoxy resin into the cracks. When epoxy cures, it creates a durable structure that can resist moisture and create a watertight plug in the cracks. It’s a good method for dry cracks. However, if the crack is currently leaking or is wet, it’s best to use another method, such as hydraulic cement or polyurethane foam.
Polyurethane Foam Injections
Polyurethane foam injections help seal all kinds of cracks, including ones that are actively leaking. Polyurethane foam is a versatile, flexible material that expands after application, stopping leaks and sealing cracks. Unlike epoxy injections that work best in non-moving, dry cracks, polyurethane foam injections can work on wet or actively leaking cracks and accommodate slight movement.
Carbon Fiber Strips or Wall Anchors
Carbon fiber straps are high-strength, lightweight straps that help prevent a foundation from further movement. They are a popular solution for cracks and are also used to stop walls in the initial stages of bowing. If the wall is bowing more than two inches, they require something stronger than carbon fiber straps. That’s when experts use wall anchors. Wall anchors are durable steel anchors that can pull the wall upright and restore it to its stable condition.
Signs Your Foundation Needs Immediate Attention
The key to effective foundation repair is to implement a fix before the situation gets worse. That is why it’s essential to keep an eye out for the signs of foundation cracks. Here are some signs that your foundation needs immediate professional attention:
- Cracks: Horizontal, stair-step, or large cracks are a sign of serious foundation issues and must be addressed promptly.
- Gaps: Noticeable gaps (cracks that you can see inside or through) signal significant foundation movement and require immediate attention.
- Sticking doors and windows: Doors and windows that get stuck when opening or closing are a sign of frame distortion, which usually occurs when your foundation shifts.
- Uneven or bouncy floors: Floors that feel uneven or bouncy when you walk on them are a sign of sagging floors and underlying foundation instability.
- Water intrusion: If you notice water entering your foundation through cracks or concrete, it’s essential to call a professional to repair and waterproof the foundation to prevent mold growth, efflorescence, and other moisture-related issues.
Can All Foundation Cracks Be Repaired?
Yes, most foundation cracks can be repaired, including simple hairline cracks and major, wide gaps. Common repair solutions for foundation cracks include epoxy injections, polyurethane foam injections, hydraulic cement, carbon fiber straps, and wall anchors. However, the key to effective crack repair is to address cracks before they cause severe structural damage. Cracks are only a surface-level sign of damage. They usually hint at an underlying issue with your foundation, such as settlement, sinking, and movement. It’s important to get the cracks repaired and your foundation inspected before a major structural issue occurs. If it’s too late to fix cracks, you will need a more robust solution to safeguard your foundation.
When to Call For Professional Help
Hairline cracks can be fixed through DIY methods. However, some cracks indicate a more complex structural issue, including horizontal cracks, stair-step cracks, and cracks that appear in conjunction with another issue, such as a crack that is actively leaking. These issues signal the need for immediate professional help, and you shouldn’t wait to call for a professional foundation inspection. Moreover, if the cracks in your foundation are wider than ⅛ to ¼ inch, they are no longer minor issues, and it’s essential that you call a professional foundation repair expert.
Summary
Cracks are a common problem in foundations and can often be repaired quickly. Some DIY solutions include hydraulic cement and store-bought epoxy injections, while some expert methods include polyurethane foam injections, carbon fiber straps, and wall anchors. Cracks are usually a sign of an underlying foundation issue, and not addressing cracks early on can lead to severe structural issues.
Therefore, it’s important to keep an eye out for signs that your foundation needs immediate attention, such as gaps, sticking doors and windows, and uneven or bouncy floors. If you notice longer, wider, or leaking cracks, it’s highly recommended that you call for immediate professional inspection to safeguard your foundation. If you’re concerned about your foundation’s structural integrity, schedule a free inspection with CNT Foundations today.
