Causes of Foundation Cracks in Macomb County MI

Basement Wall Crack In Concrete

If you are lucky enough to own a beautiful home, then chances are that you’ll do anything and everything to keep it that way. Problems with your house can develop in all types of ways, and some of them are more obvious than others. For example, did you know that around eight out of every ten homes in Macomb County MI will probably have at least one crack in their foundations?

So, what are the most common causes of foundation cracks in Macomb County MI?

Water

Moisture of any kind is by far the biggest cause of foundation cracks in Macomb County MI, or indeed in any part of the country. Pressure from the outside ground will push against your foundation, or upward from the ground below. Once cracks form in your foundation and water gets into them, they will only ever get worse.

Leakage from pipes, blocked gutters, poor roof drainage and ineffective grading are other ways that water can get into your foundation.

Soil type

There are many types of soil that will expand over time. When your house was built, it was probably constructed surrounded by soil on all sides. In the years up to the present day, that soil may have expanded or shrunk depending on the weather conditions. This will cause your foundation to be put under pressure, either inwards (if soil has expanded) or outwards (if the soil has contracted). This pressure often leads to foundation cracks.

Tree roots

Even if your house is more than a dozen or so yards from the nearest tree, beneath the ground a tree root system will expand to dimensions far greater than what’s visible above ground. Your foundation could be surrounded by tree roots, which means it is under attack on all sides.

Tree roots grow slowly but are incredibly tough. Roots have been known to force their way gradually into foundations and even solid rock when given enough time. If your house is anywhere near trees, then tree roots could be putting your foundation under pressure and causing cracks.

Reach Out to Tom’s Basement Waterproofing for Foundation Repair in Macomb County

If you are considering having your basement waterproofed, or if you need any type of basement or foundation services, then please get in contact with us here at Tom’s Basement Waterproofing. You can contact us any time at (586) 949-7826 or (586) 776-7270. You can also use the online contact from that is available on our website.