Cracks in Basement Walls

Does your wall look like a cracked egg? This is a sign of foundation damage, and while cracks are common in many basements, they are by no means something to take lightly.

Neglecting these cracks jeopardizes the structural soundness of your basement and paves the way for water ingress. Though the idea of tackling these cracks may seem daunting, AquaGuard simplifies the process of managing them.

We are ready to evaluate the condition of your basement walls, identify the reasons behind the cracks, and propose tried-and-true solutions for enduring results. With the insights presented here, you’ll learn why wall cracks appear and the most effective measures for halting their progression.

What is a Basement Wall Crack?

A basement wall crack is any break, tear, or opening in the material comprising the foundation’s boundary. They occur when external pressure builds next to your basement walls.

While not necessarily indicative of immediate foundation failure, these cracks need urgent attention to prevent worsening. Without prompt action, you could end up dealing with water infiltration and structural issues.

Every crack is unique—its position, nature, pattern, and dimensions dictate its seriousness and the approach needed for repair. During our inspection process, we analyze each visible crack to identify what may have caused it and decide the most suitable repair options for your home.

What Causes Cracks in Basement Walls?

Numerous underlying causes contribute to basement wall cracks. During our assessment, our professionals identify these triggers, and help you understand them better.

Soil Movement and Settling

Soil around and beneath your basement shifts naturally over time. This may be due to moisture erosion or arid conditions leading to soil contraction.

Either way, the shifting ground can’t adequately sustain the basement, causing it to crack from the exerted stress. Uneven soil settling from inadequately compacted backfill also creates stress points.

Hydrostatic Pressure

After precipitation events, underground water builds and exerts substantial pressure. When this force acts on basement walls, it triggers bowing and distortion. This phenomenon is known as hydrostatic pressure.

Eventually, this pressure overwhelms the tensile strength of concrete, and horizontal fissures appear, usually near the junction where the wall meets the floor.

Seasonal Temperature Fluctuations

Cyclical freezing and thawing of the seasons exert stress on the foundation because of repeated expansion and contraction. Often, vertical fissures manifest at external corners of the wall during this process.

Expanding Tree Roots

Growing tree roots can exert undue pressure on your foundation as they seek moisture. Such force can compromise weak areas in basement walls, particularly near the exterior boundaries where roots can readily reach.

Proper identification of the causes behind basement wall cracks helps us determine the most effective repair strategies. Regardless of the cause, AquaGuard offers tailor-made solutions to counteract these cracking forces.

Is Repairing Cracked Basement Walls Possible?

Absolutely, yes! Modern advancements in basement repair technology mean you don’t have to replace an entire wall to resolve cracks. Partner with experts like us to fortify your walls, seal fissures, and provide ongoing protection.

AquaGuard employs various wall reinforcement methods to defend your basement walls against future cracking. Our warrantied solutions ensure your basement stays secure, steady, and moisture-free for the long haul.

Our Process for Repairing Cracked Basement Walls

Our repair process has earned the trust of numerous homeowners for its attention to detail and efficiency. Here’s what to expect when you collaborate with AquaGuard:

1. Detailed Assessment

We meticulously document all visible cracks, pinpointing their location, size, pattern, and type. This process aids in understanding whether settling, lateral water pressure, root intrusion, or thermal fluctuations are to blame. Our engineers also evaluate soil conditions and overall foundation health.

2. Implement Reinforcement Techniques

We deploy optimal reinforcement measures to fortify susceptible zones and avert future fissures. Available options include:

3. Introduce Moisture Control Measures

Basement waterproofing is also a great way to prevent basement wall cracks. We employ an internal drainage system, industrial-grade dehumidifiers, and robust vapor barriers to defend against moisture penetration.

4. Gutter and Downspout Solutions

For residents in the Atlanta area, we provide comprehensive gutter services. We install an efficient gutter system that captures rainwater and averts side-of-house damage.

Moreover, we can extend your downspouts, reducing the risk of water accumulating near your basement and causing further issues.

AquaGuard boasts a portfolio of top-tier solutions specifically tailored to your basement’s needs. Decades of experience in handling basement wall cracks make us experts in reinforcing and preserving them.

The Urgency of Addressing Cracked Walls

Immediate action is imperative when dealing with cracked walls. Delay can escalate:

Cracks get worse due to ongoing external forces, sometimes at an alarming rate.
Widening cracks encourage water intrusion, are susceptible to soil erosion, and increase the risk of mold.
Ignoring cracks could lead to further settling, floor sinking, and compromising of load-bearing structures.
Costs escalate as fissures get bigger, not to mention additional costs due to water-induced damage.

For safety reasons, severe foundation cracks may necessitate monitoring devices to alert for sudden crack growth.

Don’t put your home’s foundational integrity or your family’s safety at risk. AquaGuard delivers prompt, reliable solutions to not only mend existing cracks but fortify your foundation for long-lasting durability. We go beyond mere surface repairs—instead, we solve the underlying issues and bolster your basement walls.

Reach Out to AquaGuard for Professional Solutions

If your basement walls exhibit cracks, they necessitate immediate intervention to avert foundational instability and costly moisture damage.

At AquaGuard, we employ state-of-the-art techniques to remediate existing cracks and bolster your basement’s foundation. We provide no-obligation, extensive basement evaluations. Contact us now to schedule yours! Don’t settle for fleeting cosmetic fixes; choose AquaGuard for thorough and enduring foundation repairs.

Related Resources:

Georgia’s Guide to Wall Cracks

There could be more to your home’s wall cracks than meets the eye. Along with being cosmetic nightmares, they often mean something is wrong with your foundation. This guide is for Georgia residents that want to know more.