Finding the cause of cracks in foundations is essential. Indeed, the solution will depend on the origin of the problem. The most visible sign of a foundation that has “moved” results in large cracks in the walls.
There are several types of elements that can affect the foundations of a home. To make the right diagnosis, you need the eye and expertise of a foundation repair company. Did you see any cracks in the foundation?
Here are the most common causes…
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Cracks in the foundations: natural causes
The concrete used for the foundations can weaken over time. It is a normal wear that rarely has a connection with the quality of the material. The concrete will then be less efficient, less waterproof and less waterproof. These malfunctions and wear in the concrete of the foundations are usually accompanied by cracks in the walls and by water infiltration.
The year of construction can give you an answer. Usually, a property over the age of 40 has this type of problem.
Another natural cause may be the cause of cracks in the foundation. When hardening, concrete sometimes has what are called “withdrawal cracks.” These are superficial and unconsleted drawbacks. A small aesthetic connection must be provided. In this case, unlike the previous case, the phenomenon takes place just after construction. The owner of a new home must therefore be as vigilant as the owner of an old home.
But be careful not to make your diagnosis alone, rely on the advice of a professional foundation expert.
Cracks in the foundations: environmental causes
The strength of your foundations depends on the nature of the land. The proximity of dense vegetation or a river can play on the basis of a building. The presence of a tree near the house can cause an obstruction of the French drain thanks to its roots. These elements cause fragility or water infiltration.
The slope of the terrain can also lead to discharges. The nature of the soil is sometimes the source of soil movements. For example, clay soils react strongly to climatic conditions. If it rains, they soak like a sponge. In the summer, they dry, shrink and create voids around the foundations.
Another possible environmental cause is poor soil lift. All of these elements weaken the structure, which can collapse or move.
Therefore, it is very important to take the advice of an expert before starting the work. Geological survey of the soil and the surrounding environment will provide the way to repair the foundations. Ask for a free submission for foundation repair.
Cracks in the foundations: the causes of climate
Every year, bad weather and temperature changes damage the foundations. Canada is particularly vulnerable to temperature changes. Melting snow, for example, leads to water infiltration. Heavy rains in the spring or fall have the same effects. In winter, it is the frost that hardens and moves the ground. The waterlogged clay soils adhere around the foundations.
In the summer, drought can create cracks in the foundations. In short, every season its dangers. To measure the impact on your foundations, measure a crack in the summer. Check its width and extension after a cycle of freezing and thawing.
This is not to mention natural disasters and climate change:
- Flooding
- The movements of the ground
- Mudslides
- Heavy rains
- The large variations in temperature…
Each year, changes in weather and temperature changes have the same consequences, making them worse each time. For accurate diagnosis and a free and personalized submission, call on foundation experts.
Cracks in the foundations: the problems that come from within
Cracks may be caused by internal dysfunction.
Causes of cracks:
- Poor quality concrete
- A mischief in construction
- Poor design
- Lack of basement or sanitary vacuum
- Foundations that are too small or ill-suited
- A wrong soil study
- The presence of pyrites
- Building a floor or extending a house
We don’t always think about it, but pyrite is very harmful to the foundations. This ore used in the embankment cracks the concrete. It also produces sulphuric acid which has very harmful consequences. Call on a professional to plan the change of the embankment quickly.
What to do about cracks in the foundation
The solution depends on the cause of the crack. Each problem has its own specific solution. There are a few methods to repair cracks in the foundation. It should not be forgotten that the installation of a French drain is essential for the evacuation of water at the base and thus avoids the infiltration of water into the walls at the origin of the cracks.
Understanding the cause is finding the right solution. A bad remedy and it is the whole structure of your home that is at risk. That’s why you need to call on an experienced and qualified contractor from the first manifestations of cracks or infiltration into the walls.
Free submission within a 30 km radius. Beyond this radius, the $120 fee for the bid is refunded if the client signs the contract for the completion of the work with us.
Free submission within a 30 km radius. Beyond this radius, the $120 fee for the bid is refunded if the client signs the contract for the completion of the work with us.