Unfortunately, one of the realities of being a homeowner is dealing with foundation cracks. Foundation cracks will form, and they will need to be fixed. Failure to fix foundation cracks could have severe long-term consequences, and it could eventually even lead to the destruction of the foundation itself.
Looking to learn more about foundation cracks? This Chicago basement waterproofing company has you covered. We will get into the specifics below.
How Do Foundation Cracks Form?
Foundation cracks can appear for a number of different reasons. Some of the most common causes of foundation cracks are as follows.
Water Exposure
One of the most common causes of foundation cracks is water exposure. As groundwater presses up against the outside of a foundation, it creates pressure. Over time, this pressure causes the foundation to buckle, eventually resulting in the formation of cracks. Therefore, by limiting the amount of water that comes into contact with your foundation, you can reduce the risk of cracks.
Soil Shifting
Another cause of foundation cracks is soil shifting. This is a natural process where the soil moves, and over time, it can cause the foundation to move along with it. It can’t be avoided, and it affects essentially every foundation in the Chicagoland area.
Improper Foundation Installation
In some cases, foundation cracks are caused by improper foundation installation. If the soil is not properly set, or if the concrete is laid incorrectly, the foundation can begin to deteriorate prematurely. This deterioration presents itself as cracking.
The Consequences of Foundation Cracks
Foundation cracks are troubling for a few different reasons. The most common consequences of foundation cracks will be reviewed below.
Flooding
Every time a foundation takes on a crack, it creates another avenue through which groundwater can travel. The more cracks a foundation possesses, the more water it will let through to its adjoining basement. In moments of substantial rainfall or snow melting, this can lead to severe basement flooding.
Mold Growth
Wherever there’s moisture, mold follows. As such, if there’s water leaking through the cracks in your foundation, your basement will eventually become moldy.
Even the smallest foundation crack can cause this problem to arise. This is why it’s recommended that you fix these cracks as soon as they appear.
Foundational Deterioration
One small crack will do very little to weaken a home’s foundation. However, if a number of cracks are allowed to form, they will eventually result in the deterioration of the foundation as a whole.
Over time, the deterioration can become so substantial that it causes the foundation to cave in on itself. This can require a repair exceeding, in many cases, $10,000.
Combating Foundation Cracks
There’s only one way to combat foundation cracks: by having them fixed. The sooner you fix them, the better off you’ll be. Failure to fix foundation cracks in a timely manner will result in them growing larger, causing even more substantial problems.
Wondering how to fix foundation cracks in your basement? The best option is to call a professional basement waterproofing company. These companies are well-versed in the repair of foundation cracks, and they know how to perform structurally optimal repairs.
Utilize the Services of a Chicago Basement Waterproofing Company
Are there cracks in your foundation? Are you looking to utilize the services of a Chicago basement waterproofing company? If so, ULB-DRY Waterproofing has you covered.
Our team has fixed countless foundation cracks throughout the Chicago area, helping local homeowners to get the most out of their homes and basements. Regardless of the severity of the cracks in your foundation, we can help you.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!