Cracking – Level Engineering & Inspection

Home Inspection Nightmare: Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Real Estate Transactions

Scott Zurn, P.E. — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 09:23:42 +0000

Purchasing a property can be an exhilarating experience. However, unearthing unexpected foundation issues can quickly transform this journey into a home inspection nightmare. As a home inspector, it’s crucial to be equipped with the knowledge and expertise to identify potential problems that may lurk beneath a property’s surface.

The Role of Home Inspectors in Real Estate Transactions

The job of home inspectors goes beyond just identifying the problems. They are responsible for assessing the extent of the damage, suggesting possible solutions, and estimating the cost to fix the issues. This information allows the Real Estate Agent to negotiate the repair costs, saving the home buyer unexpected expenses after the purchase.

Crawl Space Woes and Unseen Dangers

When home inspectors, such as those from Allsafe Home Inspection Service, explore the crawl space of a property, they often find concealed issues. This can include signs of improper drainage, saturated soil, or even a foundational crack hidden away beneath layers of drywall. Ensuring a thorough inspection of the sub-structure is an essential step in avoiding potential long-term damage and costs associated with repairing such issues.

Windows, Gutter Systems, and More: External Structures Matter

The exterior structures of a home, such as out swinging casement windows and the gutter system, are important focus areas during inspections. A malfunctioning window or a faulty rainwater drain can exacerbate soil pressures around the foundation. An expert inspector will recognize the importance of these external components and their role in maintaining the structural integrity of your home.

The Hidden Hazards of DIY Fixes

Many homeowners attempt DIY fixes, often using duct tape or an extension cord to repair small issues. These band-aid solutions may temporarily cover up the problem, but they could also mask more significant, underlying foundation issues. It’s crucial to have these seemingly minor fixes evaluated by a competent person or a professional home inspector.

Professional Inspection Services: Your Best Bet Against Potential Problems

Our team at Level Engineering is committed to providing comprehensive inspection services. We offer a professional, educated, and trained opinion on potential structural problems in your old house.

Our experts understand that the potential for carbon monoxide leaks, improperly constructed second floor decks, and neglected attic spaces can all result in serious consequences. Our thorough inspections aim to uncover any hidden problems and provide a clear, precise assessment of your property’s structural integrity.

Finding, Fixing, and Future-Proofing: Why Inspections Matter

engaging a professional home inspection service like Level Engineering can help you avoid home inspection nightmares. If you need a structural engineer home inspection, located in the Front Range [Fort Collins to Colorado Springs], call us for an estimate. Our home inspectors are ready to ensure that your dream house doesn’t turn into an over capitalized nightmare.

Making Home Inspection Nightmares a Thing of the Past

From inspecting out swinging casement windows to evaluating the stability of a second floor deck, home inspections are a worthy investment. Remember, cutting corners now may lead to a more significant financial burden in the future. A home inspection nightmare can be avoided with a professional home inspection service like Level Engineering.

Identifying and Addressing Home Inspection Nightmares

The process of buying or selling a property can become significantly complex when foundation problems are involved. Many homeowners unknowingly purchase a new home, commence renovations, only to discover a home inspection nightmare—an unexpected foundation issue. These problems are especially prevalent in the Front Range of Colorado, a region with a unique geological history that leads to an array of soil-related foundation issues.

The Impact of Geological History on Home Foundations

Approximately 85 million years ago, Colorado was part of the ocean. As the ocean receded and the Rocky Mountains formed, the layers of the ground were created from silt, clay, and various rock components. Today, these soil elements present numerous challenges to home inspectors like those at Allsafe Home Inspection Service, who often find issues like lateral collapse from external soil pressures and hidden foundation cracks during their inspections.

https://youtu.be/UsV5YO-OVi8

These home foundation nightmares usually happen in unseen areas such as the crawl space. An issue might seem small, like a simple foundation crack hidden by drywall or an improperly fixed issue with duct tape or an extension cord. Still, it could indicate more severe problems. This is why the role of professional home inspectors is crucial in real estate transactions.

How Home Inspectors Can Unearth Hidden Foundation Issues

One such instance was a home that stood stable for almost 50 years but suddenly experienced severe foundation movement. This lateral collapse from external soil pressures caused the wall to rotate six inches. An inspector from Level Engineering discovered that an adjacent city storm sewer had failed, and the underground water was the culprit behind the collapse. The repair of this foundation issue cost the homeowner $35,000, an expense they hadn’t anticipated when they were taking care of their house.

What is a Structural Engineer Inspection?

A structural engineer inspection, home inspection, or structural assessment is a detailed evaluation of a building's structure and components. This includes the foundation, walls, floors, roof, plumbing, electrical, and more. A structural engineer inspection aims to identify any potential issues with the structure that may affect its stability or pose safety hazards.

Uncovering Hidden Hazards During Home Renovations

Another common scenario that can prove to be a nightmare involves basement renovations. For instance, during a home inspection, the previous homeowners disclosed an occasional puddle of water in the basement but were unaware of the deeper problem. The new homeowners discovered a large crack in the foundation when they decided to renovate their basement.

The crack, caused by lateral soil pressures, poor drainage, saturated soil, and expanding clay soil pressures against the wall, was hidden behind a perfect-looking drywall. Unseen issues like these require home inspectors to be thorough during their inspections, examining each bathroom, floor, second floor deck, window and drain and taking photo evidence of potential problem areas to monitor any further deterioration. The owners had to fork out a whopping $65000, a significant knock on a real estate investment.

What is a Structural Engineer Inspection?

The Consequences of Damaged Gutter Systems

A damaged or poorly maintained rainwater drainage can lead to a variety of issues, making it a crucial factor to consider in a home inspection. Gutters are designed to channel water away from your home’s structure. When they’re damaged, blocked, or improperly installed, water can overflow, causing damage to your home’s siding, foundation, and landscaping.

Basement flooring and poor drainage

Over time, this could result in basement flooding, structural damage, and even mold growth, which could pose significant health risks. During colder months, blocked gutters can lead to the formation of ice dams that can cause extensive roof damage. A professional inspection is vita and any issues found should be repaired promptly to protect the home and maintain its value. With the right care and attention, you can prevent these gutter-related problems and ensure the longevity of your property.

The Importance of Hiring a Licensed Plumber or Professional Home Inspector

In another example, potential buyers noticed an improper renovation in the basement during a home walkthrough. This strange mess made them wonder if it was part of a deeper problem that might cost money to repair if they decided to sell in the future. After an inspection by Level Engineering, it was concluded that the foundation structure was compromised by the previous homeowner’s renovations, which would have a bill of $15,000 to repair.

What is a Structural Engineer Inspection?

This scenario highlights the importance of hiring a plumber or a professional home inspector to inspect homes, especially old houses, before making a purchase. An inspector can evaluate if everything is up to code and safe, from the gutters to the furnace in the basement.

Below is a list of Typical Plumbing issues in a family home:

Water Supply and Drains

Check the water flow in all taps, showers, and toilets. Look out for low water pressure or slow drains, which could indicate a leak or blockage in the pipes. A plumber can help identify and resolve these issues.

Water Heater

Examine the water heater for signs of rust, leaks, or other damages. An inefficient water heater not only increases energy consumption but can also pose safety risks, especially with gas-powered models where there’s a risk of carbon monoxide leaks.

A good tip when viewing a property or doing an inspection is to open the hot water tap and time how long it takes the water to become hot. If it takes too long the water heater may be located far from the tap and pipes not sufficiently insulated which will result in higher electrical and water bills. If there are particles in the water, it may mean the pipes or water heater are corroded or damaged and require replacing.

Pipes

Inspect visible pipes for leaks, corrosion, or damage. In older homes, pipes might be made of lead or galvanized steel, both of which can cause health and safety concerns.

Sump Pump and Sewer System

If the house has a sump pump in the basement, ensure it’s in good working order to prevent flooding. Check the condition of the sewer system or septic tank as well, as issues here can be costly to fix.

Toilets

Ensure the toilet flushes correctly and don’t run continuously after flushing, as this can significantly increase your water bill. Inspecting the areas around the toilets as well any exposed drain pipes and inspection covers will assist in avoiding nasty problems in the future such as cracked pipes or blocked drains.

Identifying Potential Issues Before Making Real Estate Transactions

A successful real estate transaction is dependent on several factors, including a thorough home inspection. Recognizing potential issues early in the process can save you from unexpected costs and future headaches. Here are some tips to help you identify potential problems before finalizing your real estate transaction.

Rusting Reinforcement Crack

What is a Structural Engineer Inspection?

Foundation issues are complex and the cause of foundation failure is unique to each home. The crack shown in the photo above is not due to lateral soil pressures like many homes. This crack was caused by rusting and expanding reinforcement due to chemical incompatibility between the concrete and reinforcement; meaning that a chemical reaction between the concrete aggregates and steel compromised the stability of the foundation.

This is a significant problem for the future of the foundation throughout the basement. It cost $28,000 to slow down the deterioration of the foundation in this isolated area. To completely fix this problem it would cost upwards of 6-figures and a complete foundation reconstruction.

Regular Home Inspections

The first line of defense against home inspection nightmares is a regular home inspection conducted by a professional. They are trained to identify potential issues ranging from a leak in the roof, or an improperly installed second floor deck. At level our experts check just the visible parts of the house but also less visible areas like crawl spaces and attics to ensure peace of mind in real estate transactions

Plumbing Check by a Licensed Plumber

While home inspectors can identify superficial plumbing issues, it’s generally recommended to engage a licensed plumber for a detailed examination. Plumbing issues can be tricky to identify, especially when concealed behind walls or beneath floors. Leaking pipes, improper drainage, or issues with the water heater can turn your real estate transaction into a nightmare.

Foundation Inspection

A significant component often overlooked during home inspections is the foundation. Cracks in the foundation, seepage, or buckling could indicate severe problems. Foundation issues can result in expensive repairs, like the scenarios outlined earlier. A specialized foundation inspection by companies like Level Engineering can help identify such issues early.

Complete Foundation Reconstruction Due to Inadequate Resources

A homeowner purchased a recently updated home, built in the 1930s, at the full market value. A week into living in the home, they decided to renovate the basement. When they tore down the finished drywall, they discovered a completely degraded foundation [pictured above]. This foundation problem ended up delaying their occupancy for 6 months.

What is a Structural Engineer Inspection?

The home was built during the Great Depression when finances were not abundant. When the original home builders filled in the foundation of the home, they did not have adequate resources, resulting in using too little cement in the foundation mixture. After purchasing the home at full market value, it cost the new homeowners $120,000 to do a complete foundation reconstruction.

Checking HVAC Systems

HVAC systems are complex and can be costly to repair or replace. Make sure the inspector examines these systems thoroughly. Carbon monoxide testing should also be done to ensure there are no leaks in the furnace, which can pose a significant health risk.

Roof and Attic Inspection

The condition of the roof and attic is another crucial factor to consider before a real estate transaction. Missing or broken shingles, leaks, or a poorly ventilated attic can lead to costly repairs and may even affect the structural integrity of the house.

Inspecting the Electrical System

A thorough inspection of the electrical system is crucial. Overloaded circuits, old wiring, or improper grounding can be dangerous. An inspector should check for these issues and suggest remedial measures.

Exterior Inspection

The house’s exterior, including the siding, windows, and gutter system, should be checked for any damages or potential issues. For example, the windows should be inspected for any damages, cracks, or improper installation.

By employing these strategies and engaging with professional home inspectors, licensed plumbers, and other service providers like Level Engineering, you can identify potential issues and make a more informed decision about your real estate transaction. This careful and proactive approach can save you from many home inspection nightmares, ensuring that your new property is a safe, sound investment.

If you need a structural engineer home inspection, located in the Front Range [Fort Collins to Colorado Springs], call us for an estimate.

720-408-0119

The post Home Inspection Nightmare: Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Real Estate Transactions appeared first on Level Engineering & Inspection.

Why Is Your Foundation Cracking?

Scott Zurn, P.E. — Wed, 03 May 2023 06:50:00 +0000

A Structural foundation crack can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare, but it’s a problem that can happen to anyone. Foundation cracks can occur due to a variety of factors, such as poor drainage, and concrete slab damage.

Recognizing the signs of foundation problems early can help prevent further damage and costly repairs. In this article, we’ll discuss the types of cracks, evidence of foundation problems, ways to prevent foundation cracks, and how to repair foundation cracks. We’ll also highlight the importance of seeking professional help from an engineer when dealing with cracks to ensure

Normal Vs. Problematic Foundation Cracks

Foundations are crucial components of any building structure, as they provide the necessary support for the entire building. However, a cracked foundation can pose a significant threat to the structural integrity of the building. Therefore, it’s essential to understand what causes foundation cracks, how to prevent them, and how to address foundation problems

Cracks can appear everywhere around your home. Inside, outside, in the foundation and on the ceiling. There are certain cracks that occur due to natural settling and will typically come to a halt.
Then, there are cracks that are cause for concern. Let’s take a look at some different types of cracking.

Types of Foundation Cracks

Vertical Foundation Cracks:

These are cracks that run straight up and down and are the most common type of foundation crack. They often occur as a result of settling, and are typically not a cause for major concern unless they are wider than 1/4 inch.

Horizontal Cracks:

These are cracks that run horizontally along the foundation wall, and can be a sign of a serious structural problem. They are often caused by excessive pressure from the soil outside the foundation, and should be inspected by a professional.

Diagonal Foundation Cracks:

These are cracks that run diagonally across the foundation wall, and can be a sign of both settling and a structural problem. They can be caused by movement, poor construction, or water pressure

Stair-Step Cracks:

These are cracks that follow a step pattern along the foundation wall, and are typically a sign of serious structural foundation cracks. They are often caused by differential settling, which occurs when one part of the foundation settles more than another

Stair Step cracks leading towards doors and windows are often signs of a structural problem.

Hairline Cracks:

A Hairline Foundation Crack is typically less than 1/16 inch wide and is typically not a cause for concern. They can occur as a result of the normal settling of a house, and are often found in newer homes or homes with a concrete foundation wall

As concrete cures, it shrinks. This shrinkage causes hairline cracks. This is something to keep an eye on, but typically nothing to worry about.

Foundations can bend, but not very much. If they start to bend too far the cracks will grow. Poured foundations will typically have small hairline cracks due to settling.

Structural Foundation Cracks:

Structural cracks are normally wider than 1/8 inch and can be a sign of serious structural damage. They are often caused by excessive settling or lateral pressure, and should be inspected by a professional immediately.

Bending and moving can cause larger cracks. Most foundations are reinforced by rebar, which helps to provide additional support and keeps things from moving too far.

Although, if there is extensive movement below, the rebar will fail. A larger Foundation crack can be a sign that you need to take action. This usually means there is shifting, shearing, and potentially severe movement from the foundation.

Block foundations will typically show their stress by revealing large gaps between the blocks that resemble steps.

Non-Structural Cracks:

These are cracks that do not affect the structural integrity of the foundation. Non-structural cracks are often cosmetic in nature but can still lead to costly repairs and may be evidence of other problems such as waterproofing or plaster delamination. They can occur as a result of shrinkage, concrete curing, or temperature changes.

It’s important to note that while some foundation cracks may not be a cause for concern, others can indicate serious problems. If you notice any structural or non structural cracks in your foundation, it’s important to have them inspected by a professional to determine the cause and extent of the damage.

Typical Causes of Foundation wall Cracks

Several factors can cause a foundation crack, including poor soil conditions, inadequate drainage, poor construction, and even natural disasters such as earthquakes.

The age of a home’s foundation can also contribute to foundation problems, as older concrete foundations may be more susceptible to cracks. Additionally, foundation movement can occur due to soil pressure, soil movement, soil creep, and shifting soil.

Trees planted too close to a home’s foundation can cause damage to foundations and foundation walls due to their root systems, and poor drainage can lead to hydrostatic pressure, which can cause foundation cracks

Preventing Foundation Cracks

One effective way to prevent a foundation crack is by having a professional assess the building before undertaking any renovations or alterations. An engineer is trained to identify potential issues that could cause foundation problems and can advise on the best approach to avoid them. This is especially important when it comes to older buildings or homes with unique features. A thorough assessment can identify areas where the foundation may need additional support or reinforcement to prevent future cracking.

While it may seem like an unnecessary expense, having an engineer assess the building before any renovations or alterations can save homeowners a lot of money in the long run. It can prevent the need for costly foundation repairs down the line and ensure the structural integrity of the building. Additionally, a professional assessment can provide peace of mind to homeowners, knowing that they are making informed decisions about their home’s foundation repair.

Preventing foundation cracks requires proper construction and maintenance of the foundation. During construction, it’s essential to ensure that the soil is adequately compacted and that the concrete mix is appropriate.

Who does the foundation repair?

Working with an inexperienced contractor or without professional advice can only lead to no commitment estimates that end up costing a fortune or crack repair only a few months after completion.

A professional contractor can also ensure that the foundation is constructed according to the highest industry standards. Homeowners can take steps to prevent foundation cracks by ensuring that downspouts are clear and downspout extensions are directed away from the foundation. Regular foundation inspections can also help identify any potential foundation problems before they become more severe.

Signs of Foundation Problems

Here are some common signs to look out for that could be evidence of structural and non-structural foundation cracks:

Vertical cracks or horizontal cracks in the foundation walls
Stair-step cracks in the mortar between concrete blocks or bricks
Diagonal cracks that form at a 45-degree angle
Cracks in basement walls or floors
Uneven floors or floors that slope towards one area
Windows and doors that stick or do not close properly
Gaps between walls and ceilings or floors
Cracks in the drywall or plaster
Bulging or leaning walls
Cracks in the exterior walls or brickwork

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to act fast and seek professional attention. Ignoring foundation damage can lead to further damage and costly repairs in the future. At Level, our foundation expert can assess the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate repair options to prevent further structural damage

Foundation Repair

Repairing foundation cracks is a task that should be left to professionals, as the cause and extent of the damage must be assessed before any repair work is undertaken. A structural engineer can identify the cause of the cracks and recommend the most appropriate repair options.

Some common repair options include:

Filling the crack with epoxy or polyurethane foam to prevent water from seeping in.
Installing carbon fiber strips or steel reinforcement to reinforce the foundation walls.
Installing helical piers or push piers to stabilize the foundation and prevent further movement.
Excavating around the foundation and installing waterproofing systems to prevent water damage.

Each repair option has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of the most appropriate solution depends on the specific situation. Therefore, it is recommended that a foundation repair contractor assess the situation and recommend the most appropriate solution for repairing the foundation problem.

Crack Repair,

foundation cracks can be a serious problem for any homeowner. They can occur due to a variety of factors, such as soil movement, poor drainage, and structural problems. It is important to recognize the signs of foundation problems early to prevent more damage and costly repairs.

There are several types of foundation cracks, including vertical, horizontal, stair-step, and diagonal cracks. While some cracks may be non-structural and easily repairable, others may be an indication of more serious damage that requires immediate attention.

Preventing foundation cracks involves ensuring adequate drainage, keeping the soil around the foundation properly compacted, and addressing any structural problems. It is also highly recommended to have a structural engineer assess the building before undertaking any renovations or alterations.

Conclusion

Summary

Keep an eye out for:

Foundation Cracking
Foundation Settlement
Hairline crack
Drywall cracks
Ccracks in basement floor
Movement in window frames and door frames
Bowing/Bending/Shifting
Horizontal crack in the concrete slabs or walls
Noises caused by moving and shifting
Doors and windows that don’t work properly
Larger than normal spaces between joints
Other signs small cracks

If you see any cracking, keep an eye on it. If it is larger than a hairline, or headed toward a window or door, give us a call to come take a look at what is causing it.

Don’t ignore, and don’t replace, without first getting an expert’s eyes on it. This is possibly your largest investment, make sure you plan for its future.

Give us a call and schedule a licensed structural engineer to come to your house.

The post Why Is Your Foundation Cracking? appeared first on Level Engineering & Inspection.

Real Estate Agent? How can a Structural Engineer help with your property sale?

Scott Zurn, P.E. — Sat, 08 Jun 2019 16:06:49 +0000

The feeling of helping your clients find the perfect home is why you do what you do. But, what happens when you find out that their perfect home may have structural issues?

You may be searching for answers to give your client.

Perhaps the home is under contract, maybe the buyer has paid an earnest deposit, or the objection deadline is coming up.

It’s possible that a general home inspector suggested the homeowner hire a Structural Engineer for a home inspection.

“Do I need to hire a structural engineer?”

The soil system in Colorado is very complex. The soil affects homes in the Front Range more than most people realize. We have seen many different clients buy a property and discover serious foundation problems caused by the soil system.

If your client buys the home with a structural problem, it could cost thousands later when they are trying to sell.

These homeowners bought this home and overlooked the crack in the foundation, eventually, they spent $35,000 to repair the problem.

A crack in the foundation could mean tens of thousands of dollars spent later.

The advantage of hiring a professional opinion cannot compare to the cost of repairing a major structural issue in the future.

Why is a structural engineer an asset to your team?

Something that is commonly misunderstood is the difference between a home inspector and a structural engineer. Home inspectors are crucial to the buying process. They look for an assortment of issues within the home; including plumbing, HVAC systems, water damage, etc. Home inspectors are not qualified to assess structural integrity.

The Colorado law states that Licensed Professional Engineers are the only people who can state an opinion of the structural integrity of a home.

To practice the profession of structural engineering, the state of Colorado requires engineers to meet the following requirements:

Receive a Bachelors Degree in Civil Engineering from an accredited college/university (4-5 years of school)
Approximately 5 years of apprenticeship under a P.E., prior to obtaining their license
Pass multiple accredited examinations

The State Board of Licensure for Architects, Professional Engineers and Professional Land Surveyors consider a person’s experience, education, and examination scores to prove for licensure. Once awarded, the professional needs to abide by the code of ethics, and take a pledge to serve the good of the community.

What kind of structural Engineer do you need? P.E. Licensed; experience with real estate, buying/selling process, home inspections, etc. It is important to hire an unbiased third-party.

What can the structural engineer do for your client?

The Structural Engineer will do a walk-through of the house and check for any structural issues; cracks, movement of foundation, damage from weather, destruction to load-bearing elements, sagging ceilings, windows/doors that stick or won’t close smoothly, etc.

They can tell your client how extensive the problems are and recommend necessary repairs. Then the buyer can make an educated decision on how to move forward with the property.

Recommendation: Find a Licensed Structural Engineer with real estate and home inspection experience. Have them come out to the property as soon as possible.

Having a Licensed Structural Engineer in your contacts can expedite the buying/selling process for you and your client.

Need a structural engineer inspection ASAP?

If you, or the property, is located in the Colorado Front Range [from Colorado Springs to Fort Collins], call our team, and we can help expedite the process.

Our Engineers have extensive real estate experience and have helped many real estate agents navigate through tricky structural questions.

720-408-0119

The post Real Estate Agent? How can a Structural Engineer help with your property sale? appeared first on Level Engineering & Inspection.

Why Is My Foundation Cracking?

Scott Zurn, P.E. — Thu, 08 Mar 2018 07:01:33 +0000

This article will cover two basic causes of cracks in your foundation wall. If you have any signs of stress going on with your foundation go ahead and call your local structural engineer about your issue.

In the video, I use the box demonstration to show how these cracks can form. A typical residential foundation is very similar to our cardboard box design.

The Box Model

The bottom of the box is your foundation and the top of the box is the main floor system of your house. The diaphragm of the basement slab and the diaphragm of the main floor framing creates the strength of the wall. Typically, residential walls are not retaining walls.

Retaining walls are relatively rigid walls used for supporting the soil mass laterally so that the soil can be retained at different levels on the two sides.

On a typical home, the floor framing and the basement slab is what resists the soil loads. The external soil pressure against your footing is triangular in nature. This means, as it gets deeper, the pressure gets greater. When there’s no soil, there’s zero pressure against the wall, and as it gets deeper, the pressure gets larger. (See diagram below)

[P = qh]

‘P’ = total active soil force in pounds per lineal foot of wall length.

‘q’ = equivalent fluid density

‘h’ = depth in feet of the wall.

So what is the ‘P’ in the equation? This is kind of surprising depending on the soil type. If you have a sandy soil versus a heavy clay soil your pressure can double. But let’s talk about an average.

Let’s pick 60 for ‘P.’

So in this rule, if you have a typical eight foot soil pressure against your wall (clay soil) you could have upwards of 1800 pounds of pressure against your exterior wall for every foot.

30 foot foundation wall, multiplied by 1,800, equals 54,000

That is the total load against against your that foundation wall of your house. This is a pretty staggering number. This most often occurs when there is a saturated condition of soils. This is why you hear that drainage away from my house is important. Saturated soil pressure is the number we are concerned about.

Ensure there is proper drainage away from your foundation and away from your house. Soils get heavier when they’re wet and that’s when you started getting such large amounts of pressure against the 30 foot long foundation wall.

In the video, we cut the basement (box) in half so you can see some detail.

Diagonal Foundation Cracking

The connection between the floor of your house typically consists of an anchor bolt every 4-6 feet connected to 2 x 4’s sitting on your wall. If this connection fractures under stress, you will typically see inward movement from the top part of the wall. The pressure from the outside will slowly push the wall into your basement over time.

In that case, the characteristic of the crack that you’re going to see if you’re standing in your basement looking at your wall, is going to be a diagonal crack from the top down. Your connection to your floor is no longer intact and has given away.

Customer of ours. LEVEL performed structural Engineering/design, Ram Jack provided the repair.

Horizontal Foundation Cracking

Now, another common failure due to lateral soil pressures is the scenario where the connection to the floor and the connection to the concrete basement slab is still in tact but the wall itself bends in from the middle. This typically creates a horizontal crack along the the wall. What’s happening is the structure of the wall itself isn’t strong enough to resist that weight.

With the clay model, you can clearly see how the horizontal crack would start to form under this type of stress.

If You Have A Walk-out Area

If you have a walk out area that doesn’t have a foundation on one side, you can get a completely different type of movement. foundation where you actually have a walk-out scenario. Since there is less resistence on the other side of this wall, if you have heavy pressure coming from the other side of the house, you start to see signs of rotating or pushing over. The foundation wall being pushed over will start to look out of plum.

Summary

These are two of the cracks you might see in your foundation due to lateral soil pressures. In the next article we will talk about swelling clay soils as the cracks can differ greatly.

Pay attention to your foundation, if you see any sign of stress (cracks, movement, shifting), call your local structural engineer.

If you are seeing serious issues, do not panic. There are great companies out there that make amazing products that can resolve this.

The two nationwide companies that we recommend for foundation repair products are:

Ram Jack

Support Works

Thanks for reading.

The post Why Is My Foundation Cracking? appeared first on Level Engineering & Inspection.