The last thing a homeowner wants to see when examining their home is cracks in its foundation. The repairs for this problem can be extensive and expensive and, if the damage is left unrepaired, it can become dangerous. In addition, the damage can cause the home’s value to become diminished. Vertical cracks are usually harmless and can be repaired by the homeowner. However, three signs that a home needs professional foundation crack repair in Westford MA are the presence of horizontal cracks, diagonal cracks, and stair-step cracks.
Horizontal Cracks
One sign that a home needs foundation crack repair is the presence of horizontal cracks. This type of crack is indicative of structural damage and is usually caused by frost heave, too much backfilling, damage from nearby heavy equipment, or a wall that is not strong enough to support the force of the ground. The cracks show up at about mid-height on a wall. The wall that they appear on can be bowed inward.
Diagonal Cracks
The presence of diagonal cracks is another sign that a home needs foundation crack repair. This type of crack usually leads to structural damage, and it is caused when certain parts of the home settle more quickly than others. A diagonal crack is a straight line that is 30 to 70 degrees from vertical. In addition to having these cracks diagnosed and repaired, the locations that are settling at different rates should be determined and repaired to prevent the problem from recurring.
Stair-Step Cracks
The third sign that a home needs foundation crack repair is the presence of stair-step cracks. This type of crack means that severe structural damage has taken place and, like diagonal cracks, the damage is caused by differential settlement. The cracks usually appear near the end of a wall or along a joint and continue in a stair-step pattern up or down brick or blocks.
Drycrete Waterproofing can provide foundation crack repair in Westford MA. When a homeowner notices horizontal, diagonal, or vertical cracks in the foundation of their home, Drycrete Waterproofing can help. Diagnosis and repair of all three types of cracks are offered along with techniques to prevent further damage. Great customer service and high-quality workmanship are guaranteed.