What is a Foundation Wall Crack?
Foundation wall cracks are fractures in the walls of your foundation caused by settling, hydrostatic pressure, or temperature changes. They can appear as vertical, horizontal, or stair-step patterns, each with unique implications.
Why Repair Foundation Wall Cracks?
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Prevent Water Intrusion: Stop leaks that lead to dampness and mold.
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Maintain Structural Integrity: Address cracks before they worsen.
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Protect Property Value: A sound foundation increases your home’s resale value.
Why Repair Foundation Wall Cracks?
Prevent Water Intrusion:
Stop leaks that lead to dampness, mold, and mildew growth, which can compromise indoor air quality and create costly damage to your basement or crawl space. By sealing cracks early, you safeguard your home from long-term water-related issues and maintain a healthier living environment.
Maintain Structural Integrity:
Address cracks before they expand into larger problems that could weaken your foundation. Ignoring small cracks can lead to further settling, uneven floors, and even compromised walls, making proactive repairs essential for the stability and safety of your home.
Protect Property Value:
A solid, well-maintained foundation is one of the most critical factors in determining a home’s resale value. Addressing cracks and ensuring a stable foundation not only protects your investment but also provides peace of mind for potential buyers, making your home more attractive on the market.
Our Process
1. Inspection:
We assess the crack's size, type, and severity, taking into account key characteristics of the foundation.
2. Cleaning:
The area is thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt, debris, or moisture, ensuring a smooth surface that allows for proper adhesion of the repair materials and optimal long-term performance.
3. Sealing:
We use two main techniques to address foundation cracks, depending on their nature (high pressure injection or carbon fiber). For structural cracks additional measures are taken.
4. Prevention:
Our goal is to address root causes to ensure long-lasting results.
5. Protect Property Value:
A sound foundation not only ensures the safety and stability of your home but also significantly enhances its resale value by giving potential buyers confidence in the property’s structural integrity and long-term durability.
Vertical (Settlement)
Typically small in size, these cracks are a common result of natural settling that occurs as the foundation adjusts to the surrounding soil over time. While they are generally not structural and may not pose an immediate threat, addressing these cracks through timely repair is strongly recommended as part of preventative maintenance. Repairing small cracks early helps to prevent potential water intrusion, stops them from expanding, and ensures the long-term stability of your foundation.
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Vertical (Structural)
Vertical cracks in foundation walls can sometimes indicate serious structural issues, particularly if they are wide, uneven, or growing over time. These cracks often result from uneven settling of the foundation, where one part of the home sinks more than another due to soil movement or poor compaction. Unlike small hairline cracks, structural vertical cracks compromise the integrity of the foundation, creating pathways for water intrusion and further destabilization. If left unrepaired, these cracks can lead to significant damage, including misaligned walls, doors, and windows, and may require advanced solutions like underpinning or reinforcement. Prompt professional assessment and repair are critical to restoring the foundation's strength and ensuring the safety of your home.
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Horizontal
Horizontal cracks in foundation walls are often a sign of serious structural stress caused by excessive lateral pressure from the surrounding soil. This pressure, known as hydrostatic pressure, can result from water buildup due to poor drainage, heavy rainfall, or high water tables. Left unaddressed, horizontal cracks can weaken the wall’s structural integrity and potentially lead to wall bowing or collapse. Immediate repair and preventive measures are recommended.
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Step
Stair-step cracks are zigzag patterns often found in concrete block or brick foundations, usually caused by differential settling or soil movement. These cracks can indicate structural instability, especially if they are wide, uneven, or accompanied by bowing walls. Common causes include poor drainage, hydrostatic pressure, or shifting soil.
Ignoring these cracks can lead to water infiltration, mold growth, and worsening structural damage.
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Take Action Now
971 Providence Rd. # 104, Whitinsville, Ma 01588
info@NewEnglandFoundationCrackRepair.com
Tel. 833-NECRACK (833-632-7225)
