Crack Repair Overview
Cracks in a foundation or the structures above it are one of the most common reasons homeowners begin looking for professional help. The challenge is that not all cracks are equal: some are superficial, some are actively growing, and some are symptoms of an underlying soil or drainage issue that needs to be addressed before any crack repair will hold. Understanding which type you are dealing with requires a professional eye.
Before requesting a quote, document your cracks carefully. Use a coin or ruler in the photograph to show scale. Note the direction of the crack — vertical, horizontal, or diagonal — as this can indicate different types of movement. Mark the ends of active cracks with a pencil and date the mark so you and any pro you consult can tell whether the crack has grown since you first noticed it. Interior drywall cracks and exterior brick or mortar cracks may point to the same underlying issue, so document both.
- Crack direction (vertical, horizontal, diagonal) and width are important details to document before the evaluation
- Stair-step cracks in brick mortar joints are a common exterior sign of differential foundation movement
- Ask the pro whether crack repair alone addresses the problem or whether underlying soil movement also needs to be managed
- Find out what material will be used to fill or seal cracks and how that material is expected to perform long-term
- Ask whether any crack will be monitored after repair to detect continued movement
Sample photo