When groundwater saturation occurs in the freeze-thaw periods of winter, the ground expands, creating tremendous pressure on below ground portions of the foundation walls. This stress eventually fractures the wall.
When to call for a foundation repair
There are several warning signs that should prompt a call to a professional for an inspection besides a bowed or cracked basement wall. The sooner a repair is made, the lower the repair expense is, and often carbon fiber reinforced polymer materials (CFRP), or other foundation wall crack repair methods of ours, can be used as opposed to more expensive and extensive methods, including excavation.Â
Cracked Block Foundation
Indicates lateral pressure on the walls. Serious movement is evidenced in stair step and horizontal cracks in mortar joints.
Cracks in Poured Concrete
Typically occurs within 30 days of the concrete curing process. Usually, a very simple repair, however, in combination with other signs could be a more serious sign of settlement.
Drywall Cracks
Shifts in the foundation often cause other cosmetic damage inside the building. Drywall cracks around windows, door frames, and in corners are common symptoms of significant foundation movement.
Uneven Doors & Windows
Another typical indication of foundation shifting. Shifting could cause the framework to contort out of square, leading to windows and doors sticking or not opening and closing properly.
Cracks in Brick Facing
Cracks can be a symptom of foundation movement. Therefore, Refrain from cosmetic repairs until a professional foundation repair specialist determines the cause to minimize future expenditures and hassles.
Chimney Cracking or Leaning
Often, chimneys are built on independent footers. Therefore, cracking and leaning usually indicate movement in this particular footer. A more severe problem would be foundation movement disturbing this independent footer. A professional can determine the extent of the concern.
Sinking Foundation
Most importantly, the most serious sign of settlement. The foundation sinks because it is separating from the building structure. This must be taken care of as soon as possible or may lead to wall collapse.
