No homeowner wants to find a foundation crack. Increasingly common as homes age, cracks in your foundation lead to further problems with your roof, framing, doors, and windows. If you want to prevent cracks, you should understand what causes them, and below are a few of the most common reasons.

5 Common Causes of Foundation Cracks 

1. Improper Soil Compaction

Poorly compacted soil often fails to support a home’s foundation, leading to cracks. Also, a house built on more than one type of soil may settle differentially, which also increases the risk of cracking. 

2. Tree Roots

While large trees add beauty to your yard, they might not be entirely safe for your home. Their roots draw moisture from the soil underneath your foundation, and the resulting downward movement can create cracks. 

3. Plumbing Leaks

Excess moisture is a common cause of cracking. That’s why you should regularly inspect your plumbing system, as broken or leaking pipes will send moisture under and around your foundation.

4. Drainage Problems

If you don’t regularly clean your gutters, your foundation may suffer. When water doesn’t properly drain away from your home, it may pool around your foundation and cause the soil beneath your home to expand and shift, compressing the foundation and cracking it.

5. Unsupported Second Story

Homeowners considering a second story must ensure their foundation can support it. If the house’s original footings can’t handle more than one story, you will start to find cracks. 

If you’re worried about your home’s foundation, turn to The Basement Crack Doctor in Chesterfield, MO. With more than 30 years of experience, these foundation crack specialists keep houses throughout the Greater St. Louis area safe and dependable. In addition to foundations, they also fix driveways, garage floors, sidewalks, and any other concrete fixture or surface. Visit them online to learn more about their services and receive a quick, free estimate, and call (314) 931-6000 to discuss your concrete repair needs with a team member today.