There are many misconceptions about basement wall cracks. One of the biggest is that they are a sign of foundation failure and that means they cannot be repaired. This myth is a result of misinformation. If you’re a homeowner and have spotted some cracks on the walls of your basement, here are a few things you should know.
- Your soil has a lot to do with it
In many cases, soil is responsible for foundation failure. It’s important to consider the characteristics of the soil surrounding your foundation before embarking on repair. This includes considering the soil type and characteristics like:
- Elasticity
- Expansion
- Plasticity
A reputable foundation repair company will be able to identify the type of soil on your property and provide a solution that will deal with any problems the soil presents.
- Water is your biggest enemy
If your soil is involved in causing the wall cracks, it isn’t acting on its own. Changes in soil volume that cause pressure to be applied on foundation walls are the result of water retention. Soil particles expand when they take up water. This results in pressure being exerted against the wall.
The opposite happens when soil particles loose water through evaporation during the dry season. The particles shrink and the soil contracts. This results in a gap being formed between the soil and the foundation wall. The foundation wall loses its support and cracks form.
Sources of water should be identified and dealt with to prevent extreme expanding and contracting of soil.
- Foundations and constantly moving
Many people imagine that foundations are immovable masses. The truth is your foundation is constantly moving. This is a result of changing moisture levels in the concrete itself as well as in the soil surrounding the foundation. Regulating moisture levels in soil is therefore important to avoid extreme shifts in the foundation.
- Cracks don’t always show where the problem is
Most home owners think that wall cracks are an indication of where the problem with the foundation is. In most cases, foundation failure occurs in a different part of the foundation. The crack is only an indication of the weakest point in the foundation. Therefore, sealing the crack will not solve the problem. The root cause of foundation failure must be determined and addressed. To do so, contact your local basement waterproofing company.
.
StablWall is an innovative solution designed to reinforce walls and structures, making them incredibly strong and durable. It is crafted using cutting-edge technology, combining carbon fiber sheets with specially engineered bonding adhesives. When applied to a wall or structure, these materials undergo an intense chemical reaction, transforming them into a unified and solid entity. The result is astounding – a finished product that boasts a strength ten times greater than steel!
One of the standout features of the StablWall system is its adaptability. No matter the architectural challenge, StablWall rises to the occasion with ease. Its versatility allows for various application methods, ensuring a seamless fit for any project. Whether it’s horizontal reinforcement, vertical support, stair-step stability, or a corner wrap, StablWall can handle it all with the utmost efficiency and effectiveness.
