Cracks to your home’s foundation can be the result of several causes, ranging from poor construction to forces of nature. Once noticed, however, it’s important to get foundation repair done right away since the structural integrity of the property is at stake. Below are a few common causes of foundation cracks.

3 Causes of Cracked Foundations

1. Soil Moisture

Varying degrees of moisture in the soil on your property can impact your foundation. Soil expands when it gets wet from plumbing leaks, poor drainage, and pooling water from heavy snow or rain. Conversely, it shrinks when it loses moisture from dry weather. As the soil expands, it pushes against the foundation. When it contracts, it pulls away and creates a gap that causes the foundation to settle into the open space.

2. Poor Soil Preparation

Before home construction, builders must prepare the soil by compacting or packing it down with tremendous force. Doing this ensures that the ground does not contain loose dirt that will settle or move over time. But if your house is built on top of multiple soil types, its foundation may become damaged from differential movement. This is a result of varying moisture levels within the soil with some parts being wetter or drier than others.

3. Natural Movement

Earthquakes are natural, unpredictable occurrences that can impact your foundation. When there are movements and shifts on the ground, expect your foundation to move as well during tremors. Similarly, tree roots can damage your foundation. When roots find their way underneath your home, they can push your foundation upwards and cause cracking or bending. Look out for fissures or cracks that may develop on basement walls and floors, chimneys, and concrete slabs, which will require foundation repairs.  

If you need reliable basement waterproofing for your home, look no further than Jaco Waterproofing. Renowned as a leading basement and foundation repair contractor in the Cincinnati and Indianapolis areas with over 40 years in business, they specialize in both residential and commercial waterproofing and repair. To have a professional technician evaluate your specific challenges, call today at (317) 721-9379 for Indianapolis or (513) 738-0084 to reach their Cincinnati and Dayton, OH, location. Visit their website for more information.