Crack in Foundation Wall

Foundation walls are meant to uphold your home, standing tall and free of damage. However, they can easily succumb to damage such as cracks.

Cracks in foundation walls are more than an aesthetic issue—they can lead to serious structural problems if ignored. Diagnosing and repairing them quickly with professional assistance is key to ensuring your home’s safety and structural integrity.

Ohio Basement Systems is your trusted local specialist for foundation repair, backed by years of expertise. Homeowners throughout Northern Ohio have relied on us to repair and protect their homes for more than 20 years.

By the end of this page, you’ll have all the information you need about foundation cracks, their causes, and the best repair solutions so you can make a sound decision for your home.

What Are Cracks in Foundation Walls?

Cracks in foundation walls manifest as lines or fractures in the concrete that make up your home’s supporting structure. These can vary from fine hairline cracks to substantial fissures. The presence of these cracks often serves as the initial warning sign of deeper foundation issues.

Along with cracking foundation walls, you may also notice telltale signs of foundation damage such as:

Bowing walls
Drywall cracks
Drywall nail pops
Uneven floors
Wall and floor gaps
Sticking windows and doors

Timely identification and repair of foundation wall cracks and related damage can prevent more serious structural problems, saving both time and money.

What Causes Cracks in Foundation Walls?

Multiple factors can contribute to the formation of foundation wall cracks, including:

Foundation Settlement: When the soil beneath your foundation shifts or settles, it may lead to uneven foundation support and subsequent cracking.
Expansive Soils: As seen here, clay-rich soils swell and shrink with moisture changes, creating intense pressure against the foundation walls and triggering cracks.
Hydrostatic Pressure: Accumulated groundwater can push against your foundation walls, resulting in cracks and potential bowing.

For an accurate diagnoses, contact Ohio Basement Systems for a free and thorough inspection. We’ll uncover the precise cause of your foundation wall cracks and recommend repairs best suited to your unique situation.

Can Cracks in Foundation Walls Be Fixed?

Absolutely, cracking foundation walls can be repaired.

We do not recommend that you attempt to take on this project yourself. Big-box store solutions like caulk and sealants may be initially affordable and convenient, but they are only temporary bandages.

Without addressing the root cause of the foundation wall cracks, they will reappear, worsen, and lead to further damage. Trust local professionals like Ohio Basement Systems to fix the problem the right way the first time.

Steps to Repair Cracks in Foundation Walls: The Ohio Basement Systems Approach

We offer several effective repair solutions, each tailored to address the specific cause and severity of your foundation wall cracks. Here’s how our approach works:

Professional Evaluation

The first step involves a comprehensive inspection by our foundation repair specialists, followed by a suitable repair recommendation.

Install Foundation Repair System

We will design and implement a customized repair system based on the nature and extent of the damage. These include:

Foundation Piers: If the foundation cracks are caused by settling, we install foundation piers deep into the ground until they reach competent soil. Our helical, push, and slab piers permanently stabilize and can help lift settling foundations.
Basement Wall Repairs: Walls impacted by hydrostatic pressure must be reinforced and protected from cracking and movement. We use methods including carbon fiber reinforcements, wall anchors, and steel I-beams, as seen here.

Waterproof Walls

After structural reinforcement, waterproofing is crucial to thwart any future moisture problems. We offer a variety of basement waterproofing and crawl space encapsulation solutions to manage moisture and protect your home.

Monitor and Maintain

Regular inspections are essential for the ongoing stability of your home’s foundation. When you work with us, you can take advantage of our various annual service and maintenance plans.

Why Act Now to Repair Foundation Wall Cracks?

Swift action in repairing cracking foundation walls is important for many reasons, including:

Neglected cracks escalate, resulting in more complex and expensive repairs.
Moisture can seep into cracks, leading to mold and poor indoor air quality.
Foundation issues can make doors and windows hard to operate.
Unaddressed cracks may compromise your home’s overall structural integrity.

Avoid the consequences of delaying repairs. Contact Ohio Basement Systems for a free, no-obligation inspection and estimate.

Contact Ohio Basement Systems for Permanent Foundation Wall Crack Repair

There may be more to foundation wall cracks than meets the eye. These fissures can spell trouble for your foundation and home if they are not promptly and properly addressed. When you spot foundation wall cracks, contact Ohio Basement Systems for a free inspection and repair estimate.

Our team has been serving homeowners in Northern Ohio for more than 20 years, providing them with long-lasting foundation repair solutions. Our certified experts use advanced technology and established methods to effectively tackle cracked walls.

FAQs

What warranties does Ohio Basement Systems offer for foundation repairs?

All our foundation and basement repair solutions are protected by lifetime, transferrable, nationally backed warranties. We stand behind our work, and these warranties are designed to give you peace of mind about your investment. Contact us to learn more and schedule a free inspection and estimate.

Can I DIY foundation crack repair?

We do not recommend DIY methods for foundation cracks due to the potential for escalating structural damage if improperly addressed. Ohio Basement Systems offers a variety of repairs tailored to meet your home’s needs. Contact us today for a free inspection and estimate.

What signs indicate that foundation cracks are severe?

Signs indicating your home has severe foundation issues requiring immediate attention include:

Horizontal cracks
Stair-step cracks
Widening cracks
Accompanying issues like wall bowing

Contact Ohio Basement Systems right away if you see these issues. We’ll provide a free inspection and recommend the best repair options to protect your home.