Foundation Step Cracks
Cracks are something that no homeowner ever wants to see in their walls. They especially never want to see them in their foundation walls. However, cracks do occur every once in a while. While some cracks are superficial resulting from the natural drying process, other cracks run deeper and are often a sign of a structural problem with the foundation.
It is important to be able to differentiate between structural and superficial cracks. This will let you know whether you should be concerned or not. It will also tell you when your foundation needs immediate attention.
Step Cracks
Masonry block foundations are built by stacking blocks on top of each other. The blocks are arranged in a staggered pattern to give the wall strength. Mortar is used between the blocks to form a bond.
Step cracks often appear on masonry foundation walls. Cracks occur along the weakest parts of the wall. When it comes to masonry block foundation walls, the weakest part is that between the blocks. This space consists of mortar that is used to bond the blocks together and form the wall. The appearance of these cracks is therefore a clear indication of foundation failure.
The cracks appear like stair steps. This is because they follow the spaces between the blocks.
Why Your Wall is Cracking
When you notice the cracks in your foundation, you may be wondering why they occurred in the first place. This type of cracks is an indication of foundation failure. This often occurs as a result of pressure acting against the wall from the exterior. When the pressure exceeds the resistance of the wall, the wall begins to bow inward. When it comes to a masonry block foundation wall, the bowing is first noticed as step cracks.
In some cases, the soil may be doing the opposite. It may not be providing adequate support for the foundation wall for example, during a drought when the soil shrinks away from the foundation wall. The wall bows outward due to a lack of support. The cracks form at the point of bowing.
What You Should Do
If you’ve noticed step cracks in your foundation wall, don’t attempt to repair the wall on your own. This is not a DIY job. It is a job that is dangerous and requires a great deal of skill and expertise to repair properly and safely. Get in touch with a basement repair professional with experience in dealing with bowing walls.
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