When you discover your foundation has cracks, it is worth having your foundation inspected. Cracks can be caused by minor problems, and the cracks themselves may not be too serious. However, even minor cracks should be addressed as they will eventually lead to bigger problems. Dallas Foundation Repair would like to share how cracks form and why they need to be repaired.
Are Cracks in a Foundation Normal?
When you see cracks in your home’s foundation, this often means your foundation has shifted. When the foundation shifts it is mostly due to the surrounding soil condition. Cold, moisture and dry soil can cause the foundation to shift. When the drainage system is inefficient, or when sudden changes in the temperature like those that happened recently here in Texas, the soil will expand and contract which changes the volume of the soil your foundation is using for its support. Cracks are often the first sign of foundation problems. Cracks can also be a sign that one of the pipes that runs through the foundation has broken and is now leaking water.
When Should I Be Worried About Foundation Cracks?
It is common for a foundation to develop smaller or finer cracks. Soil will always shift a little bit. However, when the soil shifts too fast or too much, that is when major foundation problems will form. Often the width and length of the cracks will determine how serious of a problem you have. The number of cracks can also be a major contributor to the integrity of the foundation. One of the dangers of cracks is that they can allow moisture to soak underneath the foundation and affect the soil. Another major issue with cracks, is that cracks serve as access points for ants and termites. To help keep moisture and pests out, cracks should be sealed. Cracks can often be one of many signs that your foundation is in much more dire stress than you might think. Cracks, along with doors and windows that have shifted or become stuck, means the entire foundation is no longer level. Really bad foundation shifting may have cracks not just in the foundation but also going up the walls. The roof may even appear a bit saggy. If you have signs of bigger foundation problem your repairs will be much more intense.
How Do I Fix a Crack in My Foundation?
Hairline cracks should always be dealt with. Even if the foundation only has minor cracking you will want the crack quickly repaired to prevent future problems. Cracks can be filled in with a resin and then sealed to keep moisture from affecting the soil, and pests out. However, if the cracks are bigger and the entire foundation has shifted, you will need foundation repair. Depending on the condition of the foundation and the soil, you may only need foam or mudjacking repairs. If the foundation is sinking you may need piling or piering repairs. To determine your foundation’s needs, you will want to schedule a foundation repair specialist and have them come and inspect your home’s foundations.
Slab Foundation Repair in Lewisville, Flower Mound, Carrollton, Plano, Richardson, Grapevine, Garland, Mesquite, Grand Prairie, Arlington & Great Dallas, Texas
For quality foundation repairs, contact Dallas Foundation Repair and schedule our services today!
