Vertical cracks in the basement walls can be a common problem. These cracks occur for all sorts of reasons, and they can typically be repaired by a professional. While these cracks may not cause an immediate problem, they can worsen over time and cause the walls to deteriorate. Getting basement wall cracks repaired is vital to ensure the longevity and integrity of your structure. It can also be helpful to know and understand what might cause vertical cracks, how to respond when you encounter them, and learn some tips for preventing them from occurring.
In this guide, we will take a closer look at what causes cracks in basement walls, how to prevent them, and what some of the repair options are.
What Causes Vertical Cracks in Basement Walls?
Vertical cracks don’t typically just happen overnight. While you might notice their appearance suddenly, there are usually root causes that lead to the formation of vertical cracks. And once they start, cracks can continue to grow.
Vertical cracks can be caused by a number of things. And it’s not usually because of anything the homeowner did wrong. While there are preventative measures you can take, most vertical cracks are caused by natural occurrences, such as:
- Natural settling of the house.
- Changes in humidity levels or temperatures.
- Water pressure and infiltration.
- Poor construction.
- Hydrostatic pressure.
Regardless of what caused the issue, getting a basement crack repair as soon as possible will help protect your structure.
Signs of Vertical Cracks in the Basement Walls
When cracks get larger, you can visibly see them on the basement wall. These cracks often start out much smaller and then grow in size. It may be difficult to see them when they first begin to form, but there are other, more noticeable side effects of vertical cracks that you also may experience.
Some of the most common signs of vertical cracks are:
- Visible cracks in the wall.
- Uneven surfaces.
- Discoloration or dampness on the walls.
Prevention of Vertical Cracks in Basement Walls
While vertical cracks are typically a natural occurrence, there are things that you might be able to do to prevent the formation of cracks. We recommend working with a waterproofing company to be proactive in ensuring you have all the proper things in place to prevent a crack from forming.
There are many small things you can do that will prevent cracks and help protect your structure. Why not take steps now before you need costly repairs?
We recommend the following measures to prevent vertical cracks in basement walls:
- Ensure your foundation surroundings have proper grading and sloping.
- Check and maintain drainage solutions, such as sump pumps, French drains, or gutters and downspouts.
- Complete routine inspection and maintenance of anything that affects drainage or moisture.
- Utilities should all be properly installed.
- Building materials need to be used properly and the construction of your basement needs to be done correctly.
Repairing Vertical Cracks in Basement Walls
When it comes to repairing vertical cracks in the basement walls, we highly recommend that you work with a professional company that has experience working with wall crack repair and waterproofing for basements. They will be able to help you discover the best solution possible and ensure it’s properly executed.
There are some DIY solutions for repairing wall cracks without professional assistance. It is fine to use these techniques in some circumstances, but there are some things to be aware of. The first thing to remember is that these are only meant for very small cracks. Don’t use these strategies on anything large that could impact your overall structure. In addition, DIY solutions are usually only meant to be a short-term fix until you can bring in professional help for a more permanent solution.
As a general rule of thumb, if a crack is a hairline or less than 1/8 inches wide, you may be able to try DIY methods. This is also assuming the crack doesn’t travel all the way up your wall. And of course, if the crack expands any further, you will want to call a professional.
There are a few different types of wall crack repairs that most professionals use. These are the most common and reliable solutions:
- Epoxy injections.
- Polyurethane injections.
- Carbon fiber reinforcement.
How to Choose a Basement Crack Repair Company
If you have vertical cracks in your basement wall, bring in a trustworthy company that has experience working with basements and foundations. The best thing you can do is search for options in your area and do some basic research. Look for expertise, experience, and reputation. Also, make sure you hire a company that is properly licensed and certified. Most companies will provide estimates, so be sure to get quotes and make comparisons. Getting a quote is also a great way to interact with the company face-to-face and see if you click with them.
Request a Free Quote for Wall Crack Repair
Drycrete Waterproofing has been working in the basement waterproofing and concrete repair industries for more than 30 years. We take great pride in providing high-quality service and solutions to all of our customers. Request a free quote today to get started on your wall crack repair and any other waterproofing projects.