Cracks in building walls can have many causes, including:
- Ground movement: When the ground beneath a building shift or settles, it can cause the structure to move and crack the walls and floors. This is especially common in homes with poor drainage.
- Temperature and humidity changes: When temperatures and humidity fluctuate, the framing and drywall can expand and contract, causing cracks.
- Poor construction: Poor construction design and workmanship can cause cracks in the foundation.
- Faulty drywall taping: Improper installation or using the wrong type or amount of drywall mud can cause cracks.
- Large trees: Trees close to a house can damage the foundation with their invasive root systems. They can also affect the moisture in the soil, which can cause wall cracks.
- Environmental stresses: Nearby trains or earthquakes can cause cracks.
- Age and Wear – As buildings age, materials may degrade or deteriorate, increasing susceptibility to cracks. Normal wear and tear and poor maintenance can also contribute to the development of cracks over time.
- Settling – When a building’s foundation settles over time, it can cause the walls to shift slightly, leading to hairline cracks. Minor settling is common in most buildings and usually does not pose a significant structural concern. However, differential settlement, when your home sinks unevenly, is a severe problem that requires professional attention. Differential settlement may happen because of factors like expansive soil, drought, oversaturated soil, and invasive tree roots.
- Chemical reactions: Chemical reactions in construction materials can cause cracks. etc
Cracks can be structural or non-structural. Structural cracks are caused by incorrect design, faulty construction, or overloading. Non-structural cracks are caused by internally induced stress on the materials used to construct the building.
Some cracks are easy to repair, while others can be a sign of a serious defect that could lead to a dangerous building collapse. It’s important to take cracks seriously and have a professional inspect them.
When Should I Worry about My Cracked Walls?
While we recommend that all cracks be readily fixed to prevent future issues, not all cracks should cause alarm. The key is to determine whether the crack is structural, which requires careful observation and assessment. Here are some indicators that can help you identify whether a crack may be related to structural issues:
- Width – Structural cracks are wider than hairline cracks, 1/10 inch or wider. They may also extend diagonally or horizontally across the wall or appear in a stair-step pattern along mortar joints in masonry walls. Additionally, if the crack seems wider at one end of the crack, it is likely a structural crack.
- Location – Cracks near corners, windows, doors, or along the edges of ceilings are more likely to be related to differential settlement. Cracks that appear repeatedly in the same location may indicate ongoing structural issues.
- Depth – Structural cracks often extend beyond the surface layer of paint or plaster and may be accompanied by visible separation or displacement of the surrounding materials.
- Associated Symptoms – Look for other signs of structural issues, such as uneven floors, doors or windows that no longer close properly, or gaps between walls and floors or ceilings.
If you suspect that a crack may be structural, it’s essential to consult with a foundation repair specialist for a thorough assessment. They can evaluate the cracks’ characteristics, inspect the foundation and structure, and recommend appropriate repairs. Ignoring or patching up structural cracks will only lead to further damage and compromise the safety and stability of your home.
Can You Fix Cracked Walls?
Cracked walls are absolutely fixable. However, you must correct the underlying issue before fixing a crack.
- For instance, if a plumbing leak caused the crack, you must stop the leak and replace the drywall, otherwise the crack will reappear.
- If your house is settling unevenly, you will need foundation underpinning to raise and stabilize your home before attempting to fix the crack.
Once the underlying issue has been corrected, it is time to patch the crack. Here are some standard repair methods:
- Drywall Patch – Prepare the wall by removing debris, such as paint chips, old drywall tape, etc. Then, spread joint compound over the crack, apply drywall tape, and another layer or two of joint compound. Once the crack is covered, smoothen the wall out with a wet sponge. Once the wall is dry, you can paint.
- Epoxy Injection – This repair solution is for larger hairline cracks, typically in concrete walls. It involves a professional injecting a urethane resin into the crack and sealing it with an epoxy paste.
- Wall Clay Process – If there is a crack in your foundation but it is obstructed by drywall or paneling, a professional can repair the crack from the exterior of your home using a waterproof granular clay solution.
When Should you Call us about your Cracked Wall?
If you suspect that the crack in your wall seems to be structural, it is imperative to call a foundation repair specialist. Foundation damage only worsens, making time your enemy. Calling a professional early on will ensure that your home remains safe and repair costs are minimal. Remember, if you notice any of the following signs, your crack is likely structural:
- Wider than 1/10 inch
- Horizontal, diagonal, or stair-step crack
- Multiple vertical cracks
- The crack is wider on one side
- The crack is near a corner, door frame, or window frame
- You spot other problems like uneven floors or gaps between the wall and floor or ceiling
We offer free foundation inspections and are happy to help you find the best solution for your home’s needs.
