When should I be concerned about foundation cracks?

When should I be concerned about foundation cracks?

While you’re under your house in a basement or crawlspace, you’re looking for any cracks or signs of damage. If you find a long horizontal crack with any leaning or bowing walls, you are in dangerous territory. If your foundation walls are made of concrete block, the cracks may be in a stair-step pattern.

How do I stop foundation settlement?

How to Prevent Foundation Damage so You can Save Time and Money

1. Clean Gutters and Spouts. …
2. Gently Sloped Landscaping. …
3. Install Drains Where Needed. …
4. Smarten Your Sprinkler System. …
5. Keep Root Plants Away From the House. …
6. Low-Water Flowers Near the Foundation. …
7. A Few Inches of Mulch. …
8. Repair Cracks Immediately.

What is acceptable variation in the foundation?

However, an overall foundation levelness tolerance of 1.5″ (i.e., + or – 0.75″), which ACI 117 [1] specifies, is widely considered to be an acceptable construction tolerance for Slab-on-ground foundations.

How big is too big foundation crack?

If the crack is located closer to a corner and is wider than 1/8 in, it is probably not due to shrinkage but indicates a more serious foundation issue. If your vertical foundation crack is wider than 1/8 of an inch, call a professional to get it inspected as it may be a cause for concern.

How can you tell if a crack is structural?

Severe – cracks up to 25mm wide could be a sign of structural damage and should be inspected and repaired by a professional. Very severe – any crack above 25mm in width indicates serious structural damage and will need major repair work, which could include underpinning and rebuilding.