Are hairline cracks in basement walls normal?
4 min read
Asked by: Steve Bredenberg
Within a year after construction, hairline cracks (about the width of a sewing thread) commonly appear on the inside of basement walls, most often near windows and doors or in the corners of the basement. This is due to normal “settling,” or the concrete shrinking slightly as it cures.
Are small cracks in basement walls normal?
These minor cracks can be the result of normal settling or possibly differential movement. Differential movement is typically caused by varying moisture levels around or underneath your foundation, and the common reason for that moisture is improper drainage around the home.
How common are cracks in basement walls?
It’s not uncommon to be in any basement and notice a few cracks here or there. Yes, they can be frustrating to the homeowner, but they’re a common occurrence. Stress points are one of the reasons cracks are created in your walls. They can occur when you’re installing lines for the electric, gas or sewer.
How do you fix hairline cracks in basement walls?
Thin hairline cracks can usually be repaired with a vinyl concrete patching compound. If recommended by the manufacturer, apply a concrete bonding adhesive or primer/additive to create the best bond possible between the old surface and the patching material.
Is it normal to have hairline cracks in concrete?
Hairline cracks in a concrete slab are rarely a cause for concern. They can be controlled, but not eliminated. A crack in a slab of 1/8 inch or less is typically a normal shrinkage crack and not a cause for concern.
Are foundation cracks serious?
While not dangerous, these cracks should not be left unchecked. Cracks of this type are a sign of differential settlement (horizontal and vertical tension), which can cause serious structural problems in the home. They occur when sections of your home settle faster than others.
How can you tell if a crack is structural?
As the name suggests, structural cracks occur because of poor construction sites, overloading or poor soil bearing.
Telltale signs of structural cracks in your foundation are:
- Stair-step cracks.
- Cracks on foundation slabs or beams.
- Vertical cracks that are wide at the bottom or top.
- Cracks measuring 1/8″ in width.
Are cracks in basement floors normal?
The short answer is yes—cracks in concrete floors are normal, if not inevitable. As concrete cures, it will naturally develop tiny cracks as the mix dries and water evaporates. Over time, your concrete basement floors may also crack due to uniform settlement.
Should I worry about cracks in walls?
Foundation Damage. Unfortunately, cracking in your walls and ceilings may also be the result of damage to your foundation. If you’re seeing large cracks that are more than a quarter-inch wide or other signs that have you concerned about your foundation, it’s definitely time to have your home checked.
Do all basements have cracks?
The less moisture and the further away moisture sources are from basement walls, the better. 1. It is not uncommon for basements walls to have cracks and in general, the older the home, the more likelihood of cracks. Many cracks are small, and some are even normal; i.e. shrinkage cracks.
Are hairline cracks in walls normal?
Problematic wall cracks will typically start at windows, doorways or house corners. Generally, smaller hairline cracks are not cause for concern. These are usually the result of seasonal expansion and contraction of clay soils beneath your house over time, and can be easily patched and re-painted.
What is acceptable cracking in concrete?
Generally, cracks with a width of less than 0.3 mm are acceptable and do not affect the structure. However, they may develop and grow to become structural cracks. Therefore, one should monitor small cracks on houses or structures. Crack width greater than 0.3 mm can create problems for the durability of the structure.
What constitutes a hairline crack?
0 – Hairline cracks: Less than 0.1 mm in width. No repair action required. 1 – Fine cracks: Up to 1 mm in width. Generally restricted to internal wall finishes. Easily treated using normal decoration.
