Slab foundation cracks are fairly common due to the excessive load on the concrete slabs used in a house. However, knowing how to treat a crack in the slab foundation is important to ensure the longevity of your home’s structure. There are multiple types of cracks in concrete slabs, which are caused by different reasons. The current article will consider these aspects in detail, covering:
Is a crack in the slab foundation problematic?
More slabs are thicker on the edges to maintain the integrity of the home’s structure. However, due to the climate and environmental conditions, there can be an underground layer of gravel below the slab that helps to remove the excess water. However, the slab can get damaged if not maintained properly. In most cases, the contractor may prefer pouring a wire mesh below the slap to avoid cracking.
- What are the common signs of cracks in slab foundations?
- Warning signs of cracks in slab foundation
- Sinking vs. settling
What are the common signs of cracks in slab foundations?
Usually, foundation cracks may occur in the form of fractures in the surface of the slab. Similarly, the slab may sink or have upheaval problems. You may notice that the doors in your home are not closing properly, and the gaps e between your window frames has been reduced. Sometimes, the floors can be uneven and may have a sagging problem. Other cases may include dampening of the crawl space and the cabinets separating from the wall.
Warning signs of cracks in slab foundation
There are different warning signs related to different types of cracks in concrete slabs:
- Exterior cracks are small cracks on exterior surfaces. Usually, these cracks are not very problematic. However, if they start to form a zig-zag pattern, you need to get them corrected as soon as possible.
- Interior sheetrock cracks may occur in the interior surfaces of the wall. This cracking may cause the wallpaper to move away from the wall itself slowly. In such cases, contact your contractor to help fill up these cracks.
- Hairline cracks in concrete slabs may cause the doors to becoming uneven and fractures near the door surface. Also, the water may drain in only one direction.
- Rotten Wood issues can be a determinant of foundation cracks. These cracks may cause the water to drain constantly on the wooden surface, leading to problems in the wood.
- Tile cracks may appear on the surface of the concrete foundation beneath has a major fracture.
- Nails may drop out of the drywall if the wall itself has internal cracks. Call your home warranty provider today to fill up the cracks and help put back the nails.
- Walls may pull away from the house if there is a major crack in the concrete foundation. In such cases, immediately contact the contractor to help with the issue. Otherwise, your house may collapse completely within no time.
Sinking vs. settling
If the concrete slab below the house starts to shift its place, it may cause the house to sink. In other cases, it may cause a serious tilt in the house’s surface as well. Seasonal changes may cause settling of the house.
Are cracks in concrete foundations normal?
It is normal for cracks in the concrete foundation to appear over time due to changing climatic conditions. Similarly, changing temperature causes expansion and contraction of the cracks as well. However, if any major crack appears or there has been a natural disaster causing a crack to widen, it is preferable to get support as soon as possible.
Conclusion
It is important to treat cracks in the home’s foundation to protect your structure in the long term. Hairline cracks, scaling, spalling and offset cracking, etc., may cause serious issues if not dealt with immediately. Contact your contractor today and get the crack fixed.
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