MORE LOCATIONSWhat You Need to Know About Foundation Cracks
A home’s foundation is built to last, but cracks can still appear over time. These cracks can be caused by various factors, from tree roots and shrubs to poor soil compaction. Many homeowners don’t know much about their home’s foundation, making it hard to know what to ask when issues arise. That’s why we have answered common questions about foundation crack repair that you should know.
Can Cracks Lead to Leaks?
- If foundation cracks are left untreated, they will eventually start leaking. While you could fix only the current leaks, new leaks will likely appear over time, requiring multiple repairs. In areas with multiple cracks, some will allow water through sooner than others.
Water always finds the easiest path, meaning one repaired crack won’t stop the problem; it will simply shift to another weak point. To avoid ongoing issues, it’s best to repair all cracks at once. This ensures that water doesn’t just seep through the next available opening.
How Long Does Foundation Repair Take?
- Most foundation crack repairs take between two and three days, though more complex jobs can take longer. If additional mortar or drywall cracks need fixing, you’ll need to wait before addressing them. The waiting period depends on how much the home was lifted during repairs.
In most cases, contractors recommend waiting four to six weeks after the foundation is stabilized. This allows the walls time to settle into their new position before making cosmetic repairs.
Can a Foundation Be Beyond Repair?
- The good news is that most foundation cracks are repairable. Sealing cracks is often enough to prevent water intrusion, and structural reinforcements like I-beams may be used if needed.
However, in rare cases, a foundation may be considered beyond repair. This typically happens when the cost of repairs exceeds the home’s value or when a total foundation collapse has caused irreversible damage. Fortunately, such extreme situations are uncommon.
Can Foundation Repairs Affect My Plumbing?
- Plumbing pipes run underneath and are often attached to the foundation. If the foundation settles, these pipes may be damaged. Lifting the home back to its original position can also put stress on plumbing lines, increasing the risk of leaks or breaks.
To prevent issues, it’s best to have a third-party plumbing test done before and after foundation repairs. This helps identify any damage and ensures that pipes remain intact.
Will Fixing the Foundation Cause New Cracks?
Every foundation repair is different, but the primary goal is always to stabilize and lift the structure. Whether existing cracks close-up or new ones appear depends on how the structure reacts to adjustments.
- If no dirt or debris is trapped in them, existing cracks may close on their own after repairs.
- If no remodeling was done after the foundation failure, the cracks are more likely to close naturally. However, severe foundation damage can make this unpredictable.
- Brick cracks can be tuck-pointed, drywall cracks can be patched and painted, and foundation cracks are often sealed with epoxy injections.
When to Get Foundation Crack Repairs?
- Not all foundation cracks mean trouble. Some are minor and result from natural settling. However, it’s important to monitor them over time. Mark the ends of each crack with a pencil and date them.
If the crack stays the same, it’s likely harmless. If it grows, this could signal a bigger issue requiring professional repair. Tracking changes helps experts assess the problem accurately.
If you notice cracks in your concrete foundation and require professional help, call us at (877) 727-2259. Our experts at Crack-X will inspect your property and take the necessary measures to repair your foundation. Crack-X is a civil structure repair company operating in Maine and New Hampshire.