Regardless of their construction, walls crack because they are overloaded or because the structure has settled or heaved. Vertical and angled cracks are usually caused by settlement or heaving. Horizontal cracks are more likely to be caused by lateral pressure.

Understanding these foundation cracks is the first step to fixing your foundation. As the illustrations below show cracks come in many forms and have varying meanings. Cracks of .064” or less generally do not leak. Wall cracks that are wider at the top than the bottom indicate settlement.

If you foundation has cracks it is time to contact a foundation expert to diagnose the cause and severity of these cracks. This analysis will also let you know if you are in the need for foundation repair.

My Foundation Repairs always recommends that you contact an engineer before having foundation repair work done on your home.