If you find damage to your basement walls, you will likely need crack repair or a professional assessment to see if there is structural damage. However, not all cracks are equal, and the treatment differs depending on the type. Below are a few common questions that will help you decide what action to take.

A Brief Guide to Basement Wall Cracks

What causes cracking?

Concrete is a durable material, but it is not damage-proof. Installation work like putting in gas or electrical lines can cause stress points, affecting your walls. If the soil beneath your home is either too dry or oversaturated, it can move your foundation and put pressure on the walls. Soil may also wash away and make your foundation settle to a new depth.

Additionally, if your home builders did not mix the concrete properly, then it may eventually shrink and crack. Extreme temperatures can also cause the walls to expand and contract, damaging their structure.

How are cracks connected to leaking?

Moisture from the soil around your foundation may seep into the walls and leak out of cracks. Soil should drain during normal weather conditions, but if your area has considerable rain or drainage problems are present, then the ground can quickly saturate.

Once cracks start leaking, this becomes more than a cosmetic issue and could be dangerous, especially if you have electricity in your basement. Leaking cracks are a warning sign that you should contact a crack repair expert.

Do all cracks need repair?

Extremely thin cracks in the walls, known as hairline cracks, shouldn’t cause structural issues. Their main problem is making the walls look less attractive. However, you should pay attention to them to ensure they don’t get bigger.

Vertical cracks that run from the floor to the ceiling are common and happen when the foundation settles as the soil changes. They are not a structural threat, but they may leak, so you should fill them. Horizontal cracks are more severe and need immediate attention.

How should you deal with the damage?

For less severe issues such as hairline and vertical cracks, you might choose to watch them and make sure they don’t get any bigger. However, you can have a professional fill them to remove the possibility of leaks. Contact an expert immediately if you see horizontal or large cracks.

 

If you have a problem with cracks and leaks in your basement, Reliable Crack Injection in Cincinnati, OH, can help. They offer crack repair on evenings, weekends, or whenever it is needed, and they provide multi-crack discounts and a 20-year guarantee on work. For a free estimate, call (513) 368-4366. Visit the website for a full list of their services.