Do you notice cracks around your house that you can’t explain? It could be the foundation that is to blame.
Dealing with foundation issues is not cheap to fix, so you need to address the problems when possible. It might be a trivial fix you can handle on your own, or it might need help from a professional.
The good news is that you can fix your foundation cracks, but you first need to identify what the foundation problem is. Thanks to this guide, fixing your foundation should be a breeze.
Keep reading to learn more!
Settlement
One common cause of foundation cracks is settlements. When the ground underneath your foundation settles, it can cause the foundation to crack. This is often due to changes in the moisture content in the soil.
Dry soil contracts and can cause the foundation to settle, while wet soil expands and can also cause them to settle.
Water Damage
There are many causes of foundation cracks, but one of the most common is water damage. When water seeps into the cracks in your foundation, it expands and puts pressure on the walls of your home.
This can cause the cracks to become larger, eventually collapsing your foundation.
If you have trouble with water underneath your home, you should consider getting a crawl space insulation to keep your foundation from cracking! Give them a call or visit their website to see their best deals!
Poorly Compacted Soil
Foundation cracks are often caused by poorly compacted soil.
When soil is not adequately compacted, it can settle and cause the foundation to crack. This is especially true in areas with high water tables or where the soil is particularly sandy.
Tree Roots
Tree roots can lift concrete slabs for several reasons. One of the primary reasons is that tree roots grow in search of water and nutrients, and they can push up against the concrete as they grow, causing it to lift and crack. Once tree roots have caused damage to a concrete slab, they can be challenging to repair. In some cases, the slab may need to be replaced entirely. Planting trees at a safe distance from any concrete surfaces is important to prevent tree roots from lifting concrete slabs.
There are several factors that can contribute to foundation cracks. This includes tree roots.
As trees grow, their roots spread out and expand in search of water and nutrients. If these roots happen to be located near your foundation, they can put immense pressure on the structure and cause cracks to form.
As the roots grow and die, they can also leave voids, leading to foundation instability and cracking.
Changes in Temperature
As the temperature changes, the ground expands and contracts. It can cause the foundation to shift and crack. The cracks may be small at first, but they can grow over time and become a structural problem.
Fix Your Foundation Cracks Today
Homeowners must address any cracks in the foundation as soon as they are noticed, as delaying repairs can lead to more extensive and expensive damage. Cracks in the foundation can also lead to other problems, such as uneven floors and doors that no longer close correctly. These issues can make the home uncomfortable and make it difficult to sell the home in the future.
If you are concerned about foundation crack repair, you should first check the grade around your home.
If you cannot identify the problem, it’s best to call a professional to take a look at it. They can tell if the crack is serious and needs to be repaired or if it’s just a cosmetic issue.
So, what are you waiting for? Hire a professional to fix foundation cracks today!
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