Finding a crack in your basement's wall can be unsettling. Basement wall cracks are not all that uncommon, and the size and type will largely determine how much you should worry about them. Here are a few of the most common types of basement wall cracks you might observe.
Diagonal or Stair-Step Crack
A diagonal crack may start in the middle or top of your wall. You may also notice a crack just under a window or door. Some diagonal cracks will take on the appearance of stair steps, in which case they might follow the pattern of blocks on your wall.
Diagonal cracks are most often caused by the natural settling of your foundation. They're usually no problem; however, you should keep an eye out for expanding cracks or ones that appear to have moisture coming from them.
Vertical Cracks
A vertical crack can be caused by anything from shrinking concrete to shifting walls. Accordingly, you should pay careful attention to vertical cracks, especially if you are also experiencing any of the following:
Bowed or shifting walls
Crumbling mortar
Mold, mildew, or fungus growth
Peeling paint
Horizontal Cracks
Horizontal cracks are normally the most damaging type. Cracks that run parallel to the ground's surface often occur when expanding soil places additional pressure on your basement's walls. Poor drainage around your home's basement can play a role in this, as well.
If you notice horizontal cracks, you should take immediate action to prevent them from getting worse. Fortunately, here at Advanced Restoration and Basement Waterproofing, we have a number of solutions that will help you protect your basement walls.
Basement Wall Cracks: When to Worry
You shouldn't panic just because you notice a crack. Even so, you shouldn't ignore it either. There are a lot of things that determine how serious a basement wall crack is. Pay attention to some other signs of a damp basement, and then contact us if it seems you may have a more serious problem. Likewise, if the crack has expanded or you are suddenly noticing quite a few more cracks, that could warrant an inspection too.
Helping you Make Sense of Basement Wall Cracks
Basement wall cracks do not necessarily mean there is a problem. However, they do require an in-depth inspection from our team of professionals. Even if you have only a small crack, having it treated now can prevent major problems down the road. If you've noticed cracks and are not quite sure what to do about them, please contact us.