Settlement Cracks: Causes, Repairs & Prevention Tips
Have you noticed cracks in your walls? These cracks, called settlement cracks, are common in both new and older homes. While they can appear worrying, the good news is that in many cases, these cracks are generally minor and can usually be fixed. In this post, we'll explain what settlement cracks are, why they happen, how to fix them, and how to stop them from occurring again.
What are Settlement Cracks?
Settlement cracks are cracks that form in walls due to movement in the ground beneath your home. These cracks typically appear as vertical cracks near doors and windows. In some cases, they may be diagonal cracks that start at the corners of windows or doors. Although settlement cracks are typically minor, they can indicate underlying foundation issues if they worsen or become more noticeable.
What causes settlement cracks in walls?
Settlement cracks happen when the ground under your house shifts. Here are some reasons this might happen:
Poor soil compaction: If the ground wasn’t packed tightly enough when the house was built, it may shift over time and cause cracks.
Natural settling: Over time, buildings naturally settle as the ground and building adjust to changes in temperature or moisture.
Moisture changes: Heavy rain or dry weather can change how the soil behaves, leading to movement that causes cracks.
Nearby construction: Sometimes, construction nearby can affect the ground under your home, causing cracks to form.
Water Leaks: In some cases, if there’s a leak near the foundation, it can make the problem worse.
In some cases, cracks are generally minor and indicate normal minor settling. However, if these cracks widen or cause structural issues, it’s worth addressing.
Is settlement cracks a sign of a serious problem?
Most settlement cracks are minor and don’t indicate a structural problem. Small cracks, typically less than 5 mm wide, are often not a cause for concern. However, cracks that are wider or appear to be worsening could suggest a structural issue. If the crack is wider at the top than at the bottom or the wall seems out of alignment, it’s important to consult a professional.
If you suspect foundation issues or structural cracking, it’s essential to have a professional inspect the property to ensure the structural integrity of the home.
Can settlement cracks be repaired?
Yes, settlement cracks can be fixed. For minor cracking, small cracks can often be filled with a flexible filler that allows for movement without compromising the wall’s integrity. For more severe cracks, a process known as crack stitching may be necessary. This involves placing steel rods within the wall to reinforce it and prevent further structural cracking.
It is recommended to have a building inspector assess the cracks and provide an appropriate solution. They are trained to identify foundation issues and structural problems that could be exacerbated over time.
Will settlement cracks reappear after being repaired?
If the root cause of the cracking is not addressed, cracks may reappear. For example, if the ground continues to shift or reactive soils affect the foundation, structural cracking can return. It is important to resolve the underlying issue first to prevent further problems.
How can settlement cracks be prevented?
To minimize the risk of settlement cracks and structural issues, here are a few steps you can take:
Good building materials: Ensure quality building materials are used, and the soil beneath the foundation is properly compacted before construction.
Proper foundation design: The foundation should be designed to handle the type of soil beneath your home, especially in areas with reactive soils.
Regular maintenance: Inspect your home’s structure regularly. Catching minor cracking early can prevent more serious structural issues down the road.
Proper drainage: Maintain good drainage around your home so water does not collect near the foundation, which can destabilize the soil.
Being able to distinguish between different types of cracks, such as horizontal cracks, stair-step cracks, and hairline cracks, can help you identify problems early. Minor cracks, when caught early, are generally easy to manage without significant structural changes.
Conclusion
Settlement cracks are common, particularly in homes with reactive soils or where poor soil compaction occurred during construction. While most cracks are generally minor and do not indicate a structural issue, it is important to monitor them. If you notice vertical cracks or structural cracking in your walls, having a professional inspect your home is advisable. By understanding what causes these cracks and how to address them, you can protect your home from more serious foundation issues. If you’re worried about wall cracks, it’s always a good idea to consult a building inspector to assess any potential foundation issues.
The Role of a Building Inspection Service Business in Perth
A building inspector can help spot settlement cracks before they get worse. They’re trained to find problems with your home’s foundation and structure. Regular inspections can save you money in the long run by fixing small problems before they become big ones.
Senior Building & Pest Inspection - SYED ALI