If you have a basement in your home, it’s wise to take a close look at its walls every once in a while. Do you notice any cracks? If so, you’re looking at what are referred to as ‘foundation cracks.’
While these cracks are not always a problem initially, they often become a problem down the road. This is particularly true if you allow them to persist.
Wondering if your cracks are a problem? Looking for a little more information on foundation cracks in Des Plaines? Read on to learn about their dangers.
What are Foundation Cracks?
Your home’s foundation is its base. Once the foundation goes, the home goes with it. Unfortunately, over time, home foundations will start to develop cracks for a number of different reasons.
Sometimes, they are caused by pressure from soil and moisture. Other times, they are just the result of a home’s natural settling. In some rare cases, they can indicate that a house is settling in an uneven manner.
Foundation cracks come in all different shapes, sizes, and orientations. While short, narrow, vertical cracks are generally not a cause for concern, large, wide, horizontal cracks generally are.
If your foundation has any cracks of over 4 inches in length, we recommend having it inspected by a foundation specialist. A specialist can help you to determine whether or not further measures will be needed.
It should be noted, however, that regardless of the size of the cracks in your foundation, their presence will allow water to seep into your basement. This can cause a wide range of problems down the line, which is why it’s wise to have them repaired right away.
What are the Dangers of Foundation Cracks?
Foundation cracks are never a good thing. At best, they’re inconsequential. At worst, they’re a serious danger. Below, we’ll discuss some of the common dangers of foundation cracks.
Basement Moisture
As noted above, regardless of their size, foundation cracks almost always allow water to seep through them. This means that, if you have cracks in your foundation, you probably have some water in your basement.
This can be problematic for a number of reasons. Not only can it result in flooding, but mold growth, musty smells, and efflorescence as well.
Compromised Structural Integrity
Small foundation cracks generally aren’t going to do much to compromise the structural integrity of your foundation. Large cracks, on the other hand, can severely compromise your home’s structural integrity.
In fact, the larger a foundation crack grows, the weaker and weaker a foundation becomes. Allowing foundation cracks to persist and grow will eventually result in your foundation’s demise. This is why we recommend patching up foundation cracks as quickly as you can.
Decreased Resale Value
There are few things that can reduce a home’s resale value faster than a cracked and deteriorated foundation. Most people try to avoid making an expensive, long-term investment on a home that could fall apart within a few years.
The truth of the matter is that, the more cracks a home’s foundation has, the more that home’s resale value will decrease. If you want to maximize the resale value of your home, you should strive to fix foundation cracks as quickly as they arrive.
Foundation Crack Repair Company in Des Plaines
Are you dealing with large foundation cracks in your home? Looking to make use of foundation crack repair company in Des Plaines, Illinois? ULB-DRY Waterproofing is the company to call.
With over 25 years of experience, we have repaired thousands of foundation cracks throughout the Des Plaines area. Whether you’re dealing with interior or exterior cracks, we have you covered.
Contact us today to get started.