One of our favorite inspectors in the Charlotte metro area, Eric Dorman with Pillar to Post, provides the following information about what homeowners should know about foundation cracks. Houses, no matter what their age, will shift and settle over time resulting in cracks. Cracks can appear in either finishes or structural components. Though they often have no structural significance, it's important for homeowners to unerstand the difference between different types of foundation cracks and to know when to call in a structual specialist.
Shrinkage Cracks
Concrete shrinks as it cures, so a newly-poured concrete foundation may develop small vertical cracks. Known as shrinkage cracks, they are not structurally significant. Characteristics of shrinkage cracks include the following:
- The crack will be small and vertical, usually less than 1/8” wide.
- The crack is in the foundation wall only and does not extend up through the structure.
- Shrinkage cracks usually occur in the middle third of the length of the foundation wall. If it’s located toward the end of the length of the foundation wall, it is probably not a shrinkage crack.
Settlement Cracks
Like shrinkage cracks, settlement cracks are vertical but they extend up through the structure. In block or brick, cracks may follow the mortar joints in a step pattern rather than vertical. Most settlement cracks are caused by short-term settlement. Ongoing settlement is uncommon but can cause structural problems over time. Here are some ways to get an idea of whether ongoing settlement is likely:
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Crack size: Settlement cracks more than ¼” wide is more likely to indicate ongoing movement than smaller cracks.
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Direction of movement: The edges of a typical settlement crack line up and fit together vertically, much like pieces of a puzzle. If the edges of the crack have shifted, or sheared, so that they no longer line up, the ¼” rule described above does not apply. This type of crack can be a significant structural concern.
- Repaired and re-cracked: Unless it is a hairline crack, a settlement crack that was repaired and has re-cracked could also indicate ongoing movement and should be addressed.
Horizontal Cracks – Basement & Foundation Walls
In homes with raised foundations, crawl spaces or basements, a horizontal crack in the foundation wall, below grade and running the full length of the basement is likely a sign of foundation failure. For a house with a full basement, the soil outside the foundation wall exerts a tremendous amount of pressure on the foundation wall. Occasionally, unanticipated additional loads exert pressure and cause horizontal cracking in the foundation wall. Do not wait to address this potential issue as it could cause much greater problems down the line, including structural failure.
This home maintenance information is brought to you courtesy of Nina Hollander and Carolinas Realty Partners, RE/MAX Executive Realty, your Charlotte metro area real estate consultants.
If you are considering purchasing or selling a home in the Charlotte metro area, I would love an opportunity to earn your business, exceed your expectations, and to prove to you that "The Right Broker Makes All The Difference."
Knowing the type of cracks and having the right professional inspect and report on them is key to foundation maintenance.
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