Basement Wall Cracks

Basement wall cracks can be cosmetic and or structural. Typically if the crack is a "vertical tear" that goes mostly straight down, it is not a structural concern. Vertical cracks are more prone to leak however and may require digging out on the outside to seal off the leak.

"Step cracks" , are basement wall cracks that step down following the mortar joints of the wall, these are common settling cracks. All homes settle and usually produce some step cracking. The common tolerance or acceptable level of cracking is up to 1/8". If your step cracks are 1/2" or more you may need what is called underpinning or peiring to support the foundation from underneath and bring it back up to its original position.

Horizontal basement wall cracks are very common and usually lead to basement walls bowing in. If the basement wall has bowed in 4 inches or more it should be replaced. So if you have a basement wall crack that is horizontal and your wall is bowing in, take action as soon as possible to stabilize it preventing any further movement.

For information on foundation repair/ stabilization check out www.pioneerbasementsolutions.com or call 1-877-321-4889 for more information.

Pioneer Basement Solutions has been in business since 1979 serving Northeast Ohio.