The Causes of Wall Cracks

No matter how old your house is, it is very likely that you have encountered a wall crack and wondered if it was cause for concern. The important thing about wall cracks is knowing where they came from. Here are some of the most common causes of wall cracks, and what they could mean for your home.

Cold Climate

Sudden and unexpected variations in temperature can cause differences in your house. When various materials get hot or cold, they tend to expand and contract, respectively. This phenomenon means that cracking in your house is inescapable, and you can expect at least small cracks here and there. Although superficial cracks aren’t a major concern, you should address any deeper cracks that you find.

Foundation Weaknesses

You may already know that, after construction, a new house undergoes a settling period. However, a house could settle too much. If your home wasn’t built on a stable enough foundation, it could settle unevenly or even start sinking. When this occurs, deep cracks might form where the walls weren’t meant to settle.

Excess Weight

Sometimes excess load placed in the ceiling or floor can make cracks develop. For example, homeowners often make the mistake of installing a lighting fixture that is too heavy for the house to sustain. All that weight from a massive light fixture can cause the ceiling crack. Large pieces of furniture as well, like large bookshelves, could also be heavy enough to cause cracking, especially in hardwood floors.

Structural Issues

Lastly, cracks could point to a more serious concern, specifically in the structure of your house’s foundation. In addition to wall cracks, other signs of foundation issues include crooked doorways and uneven floors. In this case, you will have to contact a professional as soon as possible to fix your home before it becomes unsafe. 

Contact All Aspects Waterproofing Today for Your Waterproofing Needs!

If you are ready to get a professional to waterproof your home’s basement, contact All Aspects Waterproofing, a Better Business Bureau A+ rated company with over 30 years of experience in the Washington, DC./Maryland/Virginia area. We have a great deal of experience in waterproofing, mold testing, and mold remediation, and we want to make you feel at home again. Contact us online or by calling 1-866-999-3110 or 301-766-4420. To see what we’re up to, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Houzz.