Seniors and First Responders Discount
5% Off
Blog
All You Need to Know About Foundation Crack Types
Let’s discuss everything you need to know about foundation cracks: causes, types, how to repair a crack, and what you can do to prevent cracks in the future. Causes of a Cracked Foundation There are a variety of factors that can contribute to the formation of cracks in your foundation. The two most likely culprits […]
Table Of Contents
Let’s discuss everything you need to know about foundation cracks: causes, types, how to repair a crack, and what you can do to prevent cracks in the future.
Causes of a Cracked Foundation
There are a variety of factors that can contribute to the formation of cracks in your foundation. The two most likely culprits are:
Soil Settlement
If your soil is sinking or settling, cracks can form in your home’s foundation. Unstable or shifted soil around the base of your home can cause the unit to lean or become unbalanced. Soil settlement is typically near the perimeter of the foundation since the soil dries the quickest in this area.
Water
The most common reason for cracks in your foundation is your home’s exposure to water. Water is a grave enemy, whether plumbing leaks, poor drainage systems, or ineffective soil grading.
Foundation Crack Types and Common Fixes
Many different types of cracks can develop in your foundation, with varying levels of severity. The kind of crack and its seriousness will determine the options for repair.
Hairline cracks can be found on foundation walls or floors. They are usually only cosmetic and not cause for concern.
Vertical cracks (or within 30 degrees of vertical) and diagonal cracks (between 30 and 75 degrees) are two other common foundation cracks and are most likely a result of foundation settling.
Again, they are not usually a serious issue. If the cracks show no signs of moisture, they can be easily repaired.
Thin, non-structural cracks can be sealed with urethane caulking, like putting on a band-aid.
If there are deeper issues, many homeowners and contractors use urethane or epoxy crack injections to repair larger (somewhere between 1/16 and ¼ inch) non-serious cracks.
hairline crack
Horizontal and stair-step cracks are much more severe as they are generally signs of significant foundation damage. Repairs to these cracks are extensive and require professional expertise to prevent severe structural damage. These repairs might include substantial interventions such as excavation or underpinning.
stair-step crack
How to Prevent Cracked Foundation
Install Drains Where Needed
Sometimes, you may not have control of the landscape around your home. There may be areas that cause water to pool when there is precipitation. If you witness this problem, one option is to install underground drains that will catch the water and carry it to the edge of your property and away from your foundation.
Clean Your Gutters
A complete gutter will eventually result in an overflow reaching the ground surrounding the foundation. Gutter overflow is easy to alleviate and equally as easy to prevent—not to mention that it will save you a lot of money in the long run. The less water you add to the soil near your foundation, the better.
Install and Maintain a Sump Pump
Simply put, a sump pump removes water accumulating in a basement’s sump basin and pumps it away from your house. If your foundation is installed below the water table, it is particularly susceptible to water damage. With a proper basement waterproofing system, perimeter drains funnel the water to the basin, eliminating the chance of water damage to your foundation.
Hire A Professional
Do not ignore the signs! Even minor foundation cracks can reveal some of the most significant issues. Source a professional basement waterproofing company to come and evaluate the situation. Ensure that the soil around the home is looked at and take necessary steps to prevent it from happening again. Contact our Toronto-based experts at Waterproofing PD to set up your free inspection and estimate.
Helpful links
Read more
-
Foundation Sealing: How to Waterproof House Foundations from the Outside
Waterproofing a foundation from the outside is one of the most effective ways to keep your basement dry and protect your home’s structural integrity. It involves several steps, but once completed, this process creates a robust barrier that keeps groundwater and moisture from seeping into your basement or crawlspace. In this guide, we’ll walk through […]
Learn more
-
What Does a Sump Pump Do? Here’s Everything You Need to Know
If you’ve ever dealt with a wet basement or know someone who has, you might have heard about this small yet mighty machine called a sump pump. It’s a behind-the-scenes hero for homes in rainy climates or places where water can easily seep into basements. But what exactly does it do, how long can it […]
Learn more
-
Expert Tips Revealed: How to Fix a Leaky Basement and Prevent Future Water Damage
When dry, basements can be beautiful spaces that offer extra living space or storage. However, when water seeps in, they can quickly become a homeowner’s nightmare. Understanding how to fix a leaky basement is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of your home and protecting your possessions. Understanding the Cause The first step in fixing […]
Learn more
-
What to Do When Your Basement Floods: A Comprehensive Guide
A flooded basement is one of the most stressful situations a homeowner can face. Whether caused by heavy rainfall, plumbing issues, or a sump pump failure, the aftermath of a basement flood can lead to costly damage, mold growth, and a loss of valuable possessions. For homeowners in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), […]
Learn more
-
Addressing Basement Leaks Where Wall Meets Floor: A Comprehensive Guide
Basement leaks, particularly where the wall meets the floor, are a common and frustrating problem for many homeowners. This type of water leakage in the basement can lead to many issues, including structural damage, mould growth, and decreased property value. Understanding the causes and solutions for this problem is crucial for maintaining a dry and […]
Learn more
-
Why Is My Basement So Humid?
Basements are often susceptible to high humidity levels, leading to problems such as mold growth, musty odors, and structural damage. Understanding why your basement is so humid and addressing the root causes can help maintain a healthy and comfortable home environment. This article will explore the common reasons for basement humidity, how to identify and […]
Learn more
Contact Us
Contact Us
What Sets Waterproofing PD Apart?
At Waterproofing PD, we’re proud to stand out as one of Toronto’s most trusted basement waterproofing companies. Our dedicated team focuses on delivering reliable waterproofing solutions to keep your basement dry, safe, and secure year-round.
-
Expertise and Experience: With over a decade of hands-on experience, our experts use the latest tools and techniques to deliver top-quality basement waterproofing. You can rely on our team’s knowledge to protect your home against leaks, flooding, and water damage. -
Our Commitment to You: We are passionate about offering exceptional service that homeowners across Toronto and the GTA trust. Our focus on quality, attention to detail, and customer care has built our strong reputation in the waterproofing industry. -
Free Consultations: We provide free consultations and personalized estimates to meet your specific needs. Our team assesses your property carefully and offers customized solutions to prevent water issues before they become costly repairs.
