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Proactive Measures: How to Deal with Cracks in Your Home's Walls

10 October 2023

Isaac Simpson

It’s not uncommon for homeowners to notice cracks in their home’s walls. Whether it’s a hairline crack or a large fissure, it’s important not to ignore it. Cracks in walls can indicate a serious problem with the foundation of your home. If left alone, these cracks can lead to significant structural damage and decrease the overall value of your home. This post will explain what to do if you notice cracks in your home’s walls and the importance of hiring foundation repair contractors.

Assess the Damage

The first step when you notice cracks in your walls is to assess the damage. Are the cracks hairline or do they extend from floor to ceiling? Are they in only one room or in multiple rooms? Check to see if doors or windows are sticking or if there are gaps between the walls and the ceiling or doors. Any of these signs could indicate foundation issues.

Determine the Cause

There are several reasons why cracks can appear in your home’s walls. The most common causes include settlement, moisture damage, and poor construction. Settlement happens when the soil beneath your home shifts and can cause foundation movement. Moisture damage can occur because of water leaks or poor drainage, which can lead to swelling of the foundation. Poor construction can also lead to foundation problems, especially in older homes.

Consider the Severity

The severity of the cracks can help determine the type of repair needed. For instance, hairline cracks are common and can be filled with spackling or caulk. However, larger cracks may need more extensive repairs, including installing support columns or foundation underpins.

Hire a Foundation Repair Contractor

Unless you have extensive knowledge and experience in foundation repairs, it’s best to hire a professional contractor to fix your home’s foundation. Foundation repair contractors have the tools and expertise to find the cause of the cracks and determine the best course of action to repair them. They can also provide a warranty for their work and ensure that the repairs are done correctly.

Maintain Your Foundation

Once your foundation has been repaired, it’s important to maintain it. Regular inspection and maintenance can help prevent future foundation issues, such as ensuring proper drainage, repairing any water leaks, and addressing soil erosion or changes.

Cracks in your home’s walls should not be ignored, as they can be a sign of a serious problem with the foundation. If you notice cracks in your walls, assess the damage, determine the cause, and consider the severity before hiring a foundation repair contractor to fix the issue. Remember, maintaining your foundation after repairs can help prevent future foundation issues and maintain the overall value of your home.

Reach out to foundation repair contractors near you to learn more.

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About Me

When most people think about construction contractors, they think of home building and commercial building construction. However, there's far more to construction contractors than you might think. For example, many disaster preppers are relying on the services of construction contractors to build underground bunkers, shelters, and storage facilities. That's why we decided to build this blog. On the pages here, you'll find all types of information about the different kinds of projects that you can turn to a construction contractor for. The more you understand about the versatility of these builders, the easier it is to make the most of your time with professionals like these.