The presence of any kind of crack on the foundation of your building can cause you some discomfort. You are likely to be worried about the costly repair work that needs to be done. However, it is worth noting that not all types of foundation cracks mean that your house has been extensively damaged and therefore needs expensive repairs.
Some cracks simply show that concrete is developing fissures as a result of tension as it shrinks and expands during the curing process. Some types of cracks suggest that the foundation is settling in. But there are also cracks that indicate notable damage to a building. Here are 3 important things that you need to know about foundation cracks. 
- Types of foundation cracks
The three common types of foundation cracks are vertical, diagonal and horizontal cracks.
- Vertical cracks: Vertical cracks are very common and occur as a result of tension as concrete shrinks and expands. They are not dangerous but still need to be fixed because they can cause water seepage through the foundation wall.
- Diagonal cracks: Diagonal cracks are caused by uneven settling of the foundation. When one side of a house settles a bit deeper than the other, diagonal cracks are likely to occur. If diagonal cracks are left unrepaired, they are likely to continue widening as the weight of the wall at the cracked point presses against the foundation in opposite directions.
- Horizontal cracks: Horizontal cracks run parallel to the ground level and are a sign of significant damage to the foundation of a building. They are caused by hydrostatic pressure, which involves soil that is saturated with water exerting its weight on the foundation wall, causing it to bow and crack.
- Foundation wall bowing
Before horizontal cracks appear on a foundation wall, the wall experiences much pressure that causes it to bend. Even if the level of bowing is minimal, it indicates that the structure of the building is becoming weaker. If bowed foundation walls are not repaired, they develop serious cracks that will require costly repairs.
- You should always work with a professional contractor
Since different kinds of foundation cracks mean different things and require different types of repair, it is important to always have them inspected and repaired by a professional contractor. A professional waterproofing contractor is in the best position to determine the level of damage and recommend the best foundation crack repair method.
Contact the Professionals at Ohio State Waterproofing Today! (330) 467-1055
Ohio State Waterproofing has provided quality service with over 80,000 successful waterproofing and foundation repair installations and satisfied customers since our inception in 1978.
Ohio State Waterproofing’s philosophy for success is to provide honest, courteous and guaranteed service to every customer. Our reputation reflects this. Our well-trained waterproofing technicians are dedicated to complete customer satisfaction. This is achieved through fast, efficient processes as well as teamwork throughout this organization. You will always find a friendly representative willing to meet your needs at Ohio State Waterproofing.
We are a full service company that handles problems ranging from patching cracks to rebuilding basements. In addition, we hold three patents related to waterproofing that make us unique in the industry. These patents and our experience allow us to be able to do what every other waterproofer can do, but no one else can do what we do.
We are actively involved in the industry and community, including the National Association of Waterproofing Contractors, BHA, NARI, NAHB, NHIA, the BIA, the FHA and a number of consumer advocacy groups, as well as playing leading roles in a number of charitable functions.
But, most importantly, our highest degree of praise comes from the thousands of referrals we get from satisfied customers. Together they’ve made us a leader in the basement waterproofing and foundation repair industry.