Is it normal to have cracks in the basement?

Cracks in the basement floor can be a cause of panic for homeowners. The good news is most basement floor cracks are normal and don’t need to be repaired. However, some cracks in the basement floor can let in water, moisture, and dangerous soil gasses (including radon).

What do cracks in basement walls mean?





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.

What causes hairline cracks in basement walls?

Hairline cracks are common in new construction foundations across the country. They usually appear within one year and caused by the settling and drying of the new foundation. The good news is these cracks are usually cosmetic and can be repaired by DIY homeowners for ~$200 or professionals for $400-$600.

Are cracks normal in old house?

A: Wall cracks are fairly common in both new and older homes and are often the result of normal house “settling” that can quickly, inexpensively be remedied by re-taping the joints—the seams where the drywall panels meet.

What causes cracks in basement?

Small cracks in the basement floor commonly result from shrinkage as the concrete dries, which pulls the concrete apart. These types of cracks can show up as long as a year after the basement floor is poured, depending on how quickly the slab dries and how humid the basement is.

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:

  1. Stair-step cracks.
  2. Cracks on foundation slabs or beams.
  3. Vertical cracks that are wide at the bottom or top.
  4. Cracks measuring 1/8″ in width.


Are cracks in basement floor serious?

Not only are basement floor cracks unattractive, they can also be signs of even bigger issues—foundation problems. If ignored, these problems can lead to weak foundation walls and a wet basement. Here’s what can happen if you neglect cracks in your basement floor.

How can you tell if a house has structural problems?

Top 8 Signs of Structural Damage in Your Home

  • Cracks or Bulging on Walls and Ceiling. …
  • Soil Pulling Away from House Walls. …
  • Cracks in Chimney. …
  • Uneven Gaps on Windows and Doors. …
  • Sagging, Sloping or Cracking of Floors. …
  • Sagging Roof and Roof Leaks. …
  • Damp Subfloor. …
  • Crumbling Concrete/Brick.

Why do cracks keep appearing in my house?



In older houses, temperature changes and variations in humidity levels will cause the structure to sink and swell over time. Newly plastered walls can often experience hairline cracks as they dry out. If you live on a busy road, cracks in your house may be caused by road traffic vibration.

Does home insurance cover cracked walls?

Answer provided by. Typically, cracked walls are the result of settling in the foundation, and in most states that is not covered by home insurance.

When should I be concerned about cracks in basement floor?

Cracks Wider Than 1/8-Inch



Small to medium-sized cracks in your basement floor are natural and should not worry you. These do not indicate a larger problem. Cracks greater than 1/8 of an inch wide will require sealing with masonry and concrete-specific elastomeric caulking sealant.

What cracks should I worry about?



Typically, wider cracks signify more serious issues than thinner cracks. Cracks less than 1/8-inch thick are considered stress cracks and are harmless, while cracks 1/4-inch wide and larger are often more serious.

When should I be worried about foundation cracks?

You can start to worry when you see, Cracks that are wider than 1/10 inch. Cracks that are wider at one end. Cracks that are getting bigger over time.

How much foundation cracking is acceptable?

Any cracks measure more than 1/4-inch wide. However, some experts say cracks more than 1/8-in. wide should be addressed. Cracks appear to be growing.

Can a house collapse from foundation issues?

The first question that comes to mind is, can a house collapse from foundation issues? The answer is yes, however, it is also not that simple. It can take years to develop a serious foundational issue that would cause your home to collapse. In most cases, if it does, it’s concentrated on a specific area of the home.

How much does it cost to repair foundation cracks?



The national average cost to repair cracks in a foundation is $386-$1,230. If you catch a crack early, you can expect to pay between $300 and $600 for a hairline crack. Major structural issues can cost more than $10,000 to fix — which is why it’s important to catch and repair damage early.

What are signs of foundation issues?

Here are 10 warning signs of foundation problems:

  • Exterior Cracks. …
  • Interior Sheetrock Cracks. …
  • Doors Out of Square and Uneven Floors. …
  • Door Frame/Window Frame Separation from Brick. …
  • Rotten Wood – Pier & Beams. …
  • Bouncing floors – Rotten Wood. …
  • Tile Cracks. …
  • Expansion Joint Seperation.

How do you know if your foundation is sinking?

4 Signs Your Home Has a Sinking Foundation

  1. Foundation Cracks. One of the most obvious signs that you’ve got a problem with foundation sinking or settling is finding noticeable cracks in your foundation walls. …
  2. Crack In Walls Or Above Windows And Door Frames. …
  3. Sticking Doors Or Windows. …
  4. Uneven Floors.