Top Causes of Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks can really put a damper on your home, no pun intended. Not only are they not aesthetically appealing, but foundation cracks can cause unwanted pests to enter into your home and even worse, can cause a large amount of structural issues. Structural issues can be extremely costly if not repaired in a timely manner. At Tom’s Basement Waterproofing, our goal is always to prevent foundation cracks before they ever happen. For this reason, we want you to know the top causes of foundation cracks so that you can be well prepared in providing preventative measures.

Water

Water is typically the number one reason why foundation cracks occur. It is also typically the most expensive repair. Water is a dangerous topic when it comes to the foundation of your home. It has many sub-categories that can wreak havoc on your home. There are two types of water problems that occur, upward or inward. Upward pressure is also known as hydrostatic pressure. Inward pressure is also known as lateral pressure. Inward pressure can occur when there is too much water within the soil around the foundation. This can then cause swelling which can lead to cracks. Other sources of water pressure can include:

• Plumbing leaks both inside or out
• Poor roof drainage
• Poor Grading

Other Causes of Foundation Cracks

• Solid Impaction – This is extremely important when laying your foundation concrete. If it was laid unprofessionally, meaning the soil around it was not correctly packed, the structure can shift and lead to cracks.
• Tree Roots – Yes, even tree roots can cause pressure onto your foundation, leading to cracks. For this reason, no trees should be planted near your foundation.
• Lack of Moisture – While we focus a lot on water problems, drought issues can also be an issue! If there is a lack of moisture within the soil, shrinkage can occur and allow for more space for the foundation to move and potentially crack.

Tom’s Basement Waterproofing Offers Decades of Foundation Crack Repair Experience

At Tom’s Basement Waterproofing, we have been performing foundation crack repair and preventative measures for over 40 years. We have experience in dealing with all types of foundation cracks with numerous different causes. When we repair or perform preventative measures for foundation cracks, our team offers a warranty with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

For more information about foundation cracks and the best ways to prevent them, call us today. Offering a free foundation evaluation to all of our customers, call Tom’s Basement Waterproofing today at (586) 776-7270.