Are cracks in basement concrete normal?
The short answer is yes—cracks in concrete floors are normal, if not inevitable. As concrete cures, it will naturally develop tiny cracks as the mix dries and water evaporates. Over time, your concrete basement floors may also crack due to uniform settlement.
When should I worry about cracks in basement?
“Major” cracks are anything more than ¾ wide with a leaning foundation. Finding these cracks would be cause for concern and could signal a much more costly, structural problem. When cracks become this severe, the best course of action is to consult a professional foundation specialist or a structural engineer.
Is it normal to have cracks in basement walls?
It’s not uncommon to be in any basement and notice a few cracks here or there. Yes, they can be frustrating to the homeowner, but they’re a common occurrence. Stress points are one of the reasons cracks are created in your walls. They can occur when you’re installing lines for the electric, gas or sewer.
How much foundation cracking is acceptable?
Cracks will often show up on the exterior and interior of a foundation. Cracks that are more than an 8th of an inch wide usually mean that the foundation has been bent. Because most foundations have steel in them, cracks will open and close but the two sides will stay at the same level.
Should you worry about cracks in basement floor?
Cracks in the basement floor can be a cause of panic for homeowners. The good news is most basement floor cracks are normal and don’t need to be repaired. However, some cracks in the basement floor can let in water, moisture, and dangerous soil gasses (including radon).
Are vertical cracks in foundation bad?
Vertical cracks are quite normal in most foundations and are not necessarily a sign of structural danger. Very wide vertical cracks may be a result of hydrostatic pressure from excess moisture in the soil pushing on the foundation. If this is the case, carbon fiber repair may help straighten basement walls.
What is considered a bad foundation crack?
While you’re under your house in a basement or crawlspace, you’re looking for any cracks or signs of damage. If you find long horizontal cracks, leaning, or bowing walls, you are in dangerous territory. If the foundation walls are made of concrete block, the cracks may look like stair-steps.
How serious are basement wall cracks?
Horizontal cracks in your basement foundation are serious. This type of crack is often due to unbalanced soil and hydrostatic water pressuring pressing against your foundation wall. You may notice the foundation bowing inwards and water leaking into your basement.
How do you fix cracks in concrete basement?
Apply a concrete patch to the crack, making sure there are no gaps or uneven areas. Smooth the patch with a putty knife. If the crack requires a second patch, then wait for the first layer to dry before applying the second coat. Seal the concrete patch and allow it to dry for several days.
How serious is a crack in the foundation?
Why are there cracks in my basement walls?
Some reasons that cracks appear in basement walls are more serious than others. 1. Horizontal Cracks (the worst type) The most damaging type of crack is a horizontal crack that runs parallel to the ground. In many cases, these cracks form due to expanding soil that puts pressure on the basement wall and causes it to bow and crack.
How do you fix a cracked basement floor?
Extend your downspouts away from the house to keep them from dumping water close to the foundation walls. Add interior perimeter drainage and a good sump pump system in the basement. If you have a crack in your basement floor, determine the type of crack and what’s caused it to figure out how to best solve your problem.
What are the most common types of basement foundation cracks?
Here are the 10 most common types. Horizontal cracks in your basement foundation are serious. This type of crack is often due to unbalanced soil and hydrostatic water pressuring pressing against your foundation wall. You may notice the foundation bowing inwards and water leaking into your basement.
How much does it cost to repair a cracked basement?
In Ottawa, vertical cracks are one of the most crack types found in basements. They are caused by the foundation settling overtime or the natural concrete curing process The most common repair for vertical cracks is an epoxy or polyurethane crack injection. DIY kits start at $75 and professional crack injections start at $400.