Are your foundation cracks a sign of a serious problem, or are they the result of natural foundation settling? This is one of the first things we try to figure out during our foundation evaluations in Michigan. If all you need is some basic concrete repair, that’s all we will recommend. If there is a bigger issue below the surface though, now is the time to correct it.
What Causes Foundation Settling?
Foundation settling naturally occurs on all buildings. Over time, a home or office building will slowly sink into the ground due to the weight of the structure and the compaction of the ground beneath it. Contractors take this into consideration when they build a home, and they try to make adjustments to accommodate future settling. Even still, a brand new home can settle a tremendous amount if the ground is not properly prepped before construction. This is when simple settling turns into foundation damage.
Homes in Michigan are particularly susceptible to foundation cracking because of the sand in our soil. Sand cannot absorb water like dirt can, so groundwater is often washed away. This will cause the soil to shift, and it may take your foundation right along with it.
Signs Of Foundation Damage
Cracks will occur with both settling and foundation damage. You may still want to have your foundation checked if you see some hairline cracks on the floor, but that may not be necessary just yet. However, if you notice cracked flooring in addition to these issues, you definitely want to get a professional foundation inspection:
- Bowed or cracked basement walls
- Hard to open doors and windows
- Cracks above your window frames
- Horizontal cracking on the outside of your foundation
- Consistent basement leaks
If you are dealing with any or all of those issues on your property, contact Tom’s Basement Waterproofing for a free evaluation.
How To Fix Foundation Cracks In Michigan
There are several ways to fix foundation cracks, depending on how severe the damage is and what is causing it. For instance, if your foundation cracks are from high levels of hydrostatic pressure, you may need basement waterproofing to protect your home from water pressure. If your home has settled heavily in one area, foundation piering could lift that part of the building back in place and keep it there. An expert from Tom’s Basement Waterproofing in Michigan would be more than happy to assist you.