Matt Weber
Home Improvement & Repairs magazine based in Birmingham, Alabama.
Find more at www.homeimprovementandrepairs.com.
Foundation problems are common in Alabama, so homeowners should keep an eye on warning signs. Foundation problems usually develop gradually, often showing up first as small cracks in a wall, but problems that grow or persist should be handled before structural damage occurs.
At the root of most foundation problems is movement in the soil beneath or around the home, often caused by poor drainage, moisture changes, or expansive soils that swell and shrink. As the soil shifts, the foundation moves too, placing stress on the structure.
Hairline Cracks
Small cracks in the walls may be caused by the house settling into its foundation. Slight shifts can lead to minor cracks in the drywall or plaster, which can be annoying but are typically cosmetic and not structural.
Such cracks can also occur because seasonal temperature variations cause building materials to expand and contract. Changes in humidity levels can cause drywall or plaster to contract or expand.
Monitor hairline cracks weekly for growth, but these can usually be repaired with vinyl spackling or drywall compound.
Vertical Cracks
Wall cracks might travel straight up and down, following the line where the wall meets the floor, and vary in size. Caused by settling and temperature changes, these cracks generally pose minimal concern if there are no significant length or width increases. Vertical cracks need to be assessed once they are greater than 5 millimeters wide. If you detect dampness or widening cracks, then schedule a professional inspection.
Horizontal Cracks
If you see cracks running horizontal along the wall plane, this might be a sign of serious foundation issues and potential structural wall cracks. These cracks are often the result of structural movement as expansive soils build up against the foundation wall. Without proper care, the cracks will progressively widen, potentially causing complete wall failure.
Call a professional if horizontal cracks develop, regardless of width. Horizontal cracks signify movement or pressure on the foundation walls, so early detection is critical.
Diagonal Cracks
Some cracks might run diagonally on the wall between the floor and ceiling, slanted at a 45-degree angle. These cracks require immediate attention from a professional regardless of size. Diagonal cracks may indicate shifting or settling in the foundation. Stair-step cracks in brick, in particular, are often a sign of differential movement.
Early intervention is key, since diagonal cracks are a sign of foundation settlement, often the result of the earth pushing on a concrete basement wall.
When to Worry
Inspect your foundation a few times each year for wall cracks. The size and location of the cracks are key indicators of problems. Large cracks wider than 5 millimeters are a cause for concern, especially if they are diagonal, horizontal, or appear above a door frame.
Multiple cracks clustered together in a specific area also call for attention. A cluster of cracks could indicate a widespread problem that requires a professional evaluation to determine the cause and best course of action.
By addressing cracks promptly, you can help prevent foundation damage from worsening and safeguard the structural integrity of your home. When in doubt, consult a foundation specialist or structural engineer for a professional assessment.