Have you ever noticed cracks in your property’s foundation? Ignoring them or delaying the call for repair can lead to bigger problems. They weaken your home’s structure and can cause costly and time-consuming repairs.
Understanding the causes of foundation cracks is the first step to fixing them. However, understanding does not solve the problem. To solve the problem, you need to consult professionals like Ram Jack Foundation Repair, who are well known for their work.
In this post, we will discuss the top 7 reasons why foundation cracks appear and how you can protect your property.
Soil Movement
The soil beneath your home impacts the foundation’s stability. A shift can cause a foundation crack. Some soils like expansive clay soil expand when it gets wet and some shrink when left dry. This constant movement can exert pressure on your home’s foundation. Heavy rains of poor drainage can wash away soil, creating gaps under the foundation.Consider adopting soil stabilization techniques like mechanical and compact stabilization if there is a presence of expansive soil in your area.
Poor Construction Practices
Foundation cracks often develop when poor construction practices are followed. Contractors may use substandard materials or fail to compact the soil before laying the foundation.
Always hire experienced contractors, and consider checking their credentials. Ensure they follow the best construction practices and state laws.
Damage by Water
Water is considered to be the foundation’s worst enemy. Water seeping into the foundation can weaken the concrete and cause cracks. Water pooling around your property can put pressure on the foundation. Underground leakage can saturate the soil, causing expansion and cracks in the foundation. So, water from anywhere in any quantity can cause significant damage to your property.
Install downspouts to direct pooled water away from your property. A timely inspection of plumbing leaks can fix them without delay.
Temperature Changes
Contractors often overlook temperature changes while constructing houses. Concrete expands in hot weather and contracts in cold weather. Over time, this constant movement can create cracks in the foundation. Extreme temperature changes can cause the foundation to crack. This is highly common in areas with significant temperature differences between seasons.
Contractors can use expansion joints in the foundation to allow the movement. They can also seal the small cracks early to prevent them from growing.
Spreading of Tree Roots
Trees planted too close to your home can damage your foundation. Their roots grow in search of water and can push against the foundation, causing cracks.
Huge trees and age-old trees are often the biggest culprits. The pressure from their roots can weaken your home’s foundation.
Regardless of how much you love nature, If you face problems with tree roots, consult a foundation expert.
Earthquake and Natural Disasters
Any unprecedented natural calamity can cause foundation cracks. In case of an earthquake, the ground movement can shift the foundation, leading to cracks. Even smaller, unnoticed tremors can have cumulative effects in the long run. Flooding can also erode the soil around your foundation.
If you reside in an earthquake-prone area, reinforce your foundation with regular structural upgrades. Conducting regular inspections can help you spot and address damage early.
Heavy Loads
Structural foundations are designed to support or bear a certain amount of weight. Adding heavy loads like 1-2 extra floors or huge commercial machines can overload the foundation, which can lead to cracks over time, especially if the foundation was not built for any additional load.
Before adding any additional load, consult a structural engineer.
How to Prevent Foundation Cracks?
Protecting your home’s foundation starts with proactive care and regular maintenance. Here are some key steps to keep cracks at bay:
Maintain good drainage around your home. Use downspouts where required.
Regularly monitor the condition of nearby trees and their roots.
Regularly inspect your home’s foundation for any cracks or signs of damage.
Address small cracks immediately before they grow and cause heavy damage.
Hire credible professionals for construction or foundation repair work. For serious structural issues or ongoing concerns, working with specialists like Xpert Foundation Repair can ensure your home gets the expert care and long-term solutions it needs.
Conclusion
Foundation cracks are a common problem, but they should not be ignored or delayed for repair. By understanding the causes of foundation cracks, you can take steps to protect your home.
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