What Are Cement Foundation Cracks?

Types of Cracks

• Vertical Cracks: These usually happen when the cement dries and shrinks.
• Horizontal Cracks: These can mean there’s too much pressure from the soil or other structural problems.
• Diagonal Cracks: These often show that the ground under the house is settling unevenly.
• Hairline Cracks: These small cracks are usually not serious but can get worse.

Why Do Foundations Crack?

• Natural Settlement: Every building settles over time. If one part settles more than another, cracks can form.
• Soil Pressure: Some types of soil, like clay, can push on the foundation and cause cracks.
• Tree Roots: Large trees close to the house can move the soil and cause cracks.
• Water Damage: If water doesn’t drain properly, it can collect around the foundation and weaken it.
• Temperature Changes: Hot and cold weather can make the foundation expand and contract, leading to cracks.

Signs You Should Fix Cracks Right Away

• Growing Cracks: If a crack keeps getting bigger, it’s time to act.
• Water Leaks: Moisture or water in the basement is a sign of trouble.
• Sticking Doors and Windows: If doors or windows are hard to open or close, the foundation might be shifting.
• Bending Walls: If the foundation walls start to bow inward, that’s a serious issue.

Fixing Cracks: DIY or Call a Pro?

• DIY Repairs: You can fix small hairline cracks or minor vertical cracks yourself.
• Professional Help: Call an expert for large cracks, especially horizontal or diagonal ones, or if there’s water seeping through.

How to Fix Foundation Cracks Yourself

What You Need

• Cement patching compound
• Epoxy or polyurethane injection kits for bigger cracks
• Caulking gun
• Wire brush
• Cleaning solvent

Steps to Fix the Crack

1. Clean the Crack: Use the wire brush and solvent to remove any dirt.
2. Mix the Patching Material: Follow the instructions on the product.
3. Seal the Crack: Use a putty knife to fill small cracks with patching compound. For larger cracks, use the injection kit.
4. Let it Dry: Follow the drying time on the product label.
5. Keep an Eye on It: Check the repair now and then to make sure it stays fixed.

How to Prevent Future Cracks

• Better Drainage: Make sure your gutters and downspouts work well to keep water away from your home.
• Smart Landscaping: Don’t plant big trees too close to the foundation.
• Good Soil Grading: The ground around your house should slope away to prevent water from collecting.
• Regular Checks: Look at your foundation regularly to catch problems early.

Professional Repair Options

• Epoxy Injections: Good for structural cracks.
• Polyurethane Foam Injections: Best for water leaks.
• Carbon Fiber Straps: Help strengthen walls that are bending.
• Piering and Underpinning: Fixes serious foundation settling problems.

How Much Will It Cost?

• DIY Fixes: Usually cost between $20 and $100 for materials.
• Professional Repairs: Can cost from $500 to several thousand dollars, depending on how bad the problem is.

By knowing about the types of cracks, why they happen, and how to fix them, you can take steps to keep your home’s foundation in good shape. Regular checks and fixing problems early can stop small issues from becoming big ones.