Over time, your foundation will shift, and this can lead to the formation of concerning-looking cracks. The good news? Cracks usually aren’t something you need to worry about. However, there are times when cracks pose a hazard. To help you determine what’s normal and what’s not, here’s our guide on when to worry about cracks in your foundation—and when you can breathe easy.
When Are Cracks Normal?
All foundations will crack over time, but not all cracks are a cause for concern. Generally, small, shallow, vertical cracks that aren’t leaking are harmless. So long as these cracks don’t grow, you can ignore them safely.
When Should I Worry?
That said, some cracks do pose a risk to your home. When should you worry about cracks in your foundation? Here are characteristics to look out for:
- Long
- Wider than one-tenth inch
- Wider at one end
- Horizontal
- Next to several other cracks
- Leaking water
If you see a crack that fits any of these descriptions, your foundation could be in trouble. For your own safety and the safety of your home, we recommend hiring a professional to come and look at it.
How Do You Fix Foundation Cracks?
Fortunately, just because your foundation has cracks doesn’t mean it will fail. A professional foundation contractor can fix the cracks in your foundation for you. Depending on the size and scope of the issue, a repair can be as simple as filling the crack in with epoxy or as complex as underpinning it (anchoring it to soil) with piers.
If you notice a crack that you’re concerned about, reach out to a professional right away. In the best-case scenario, you’ll find out that nothing is wrong. In the worst-case scenario, you’ll catch a crack early and fix it before it becomes a costly safety concern. Either way, it’s better to be safe than sorry and have any cracks handled as soon as possible.
