Got a Foundation Crack? Call a Structural Engineer

Finding a crack in the foundation of your home and not knowing how bad it is can be unsettling. Homeowners often aren’t aware of foundation cracks until they notice soil erosion or degradation in the concrete slab. A cracked slab should not be overlooked. Contact a structural engineer to assess the root of the problem, determine the potential impact, and discover solutions.

Foundation Cracks 101

Foundation cracks are fractures or fissures in the walls or foundational slabs of a house, commercial building, or other structure. Not every crack in a structure’s foundation indicates a serious problem. However, all cracks indicate motion, which is usually a cause for concern. When assessing a foundation crack, it’s important to consider the age of the building, the kind of foundation it’s built on, and the materials used.

Foundation cracks can be caused by a variety of factors, such as too much moisture, soil conditions, poor quality foundation construction, incorrect grading, and more. In many circumstances, a building inspector discovers the crack and then advises that the problem be evaluated by a structural engineer.

Costs of a Delayed Repair

Unaddressed foundation cracks can result in further property damage, including:

• Structural damage caused by water and resulting mold and mildew growth
• Concrete deterioration, including breakage or crumbling
• Slow exposure to poisonous radon
• Entry point for unwanted insects and pests
• Loss of integrity of the structure

Addressing a foundation crack is critical to stop immediate damage and preventing further issues. Fortunately, most simple foundation cracks can be repaired easily with inexpensive tools. Postponing the repair of a foundation crack can cost significantly more money if there is water damage or other major structural degradation.

How a Structural Engineer Can Help

The seriousness of a crack in a building’s foundation varies widely. A structural engineer has been trained to determine the source of a foundation fracture and advise on the most effective and inexpensive repair solution. For a comprehensive assessment of your foundation’s integrity, you’ll need to hire a structural engineer with many years of experience.

After the building’s foundation has been examined, the structural engineer you hire will provide you with a detailed report of the condition of your foundation, as well as the suggested next steps for repair. This gives you the information you need to make an educated service decision and offers your contractor a guide for the repair process.

Foundational cracks in any type of building, whether residential or commercial, should not be taken lightly. When dealing with a foundation defect, it’s best to proceed with caution to minimize damage and prevent future deterioration.

Hire a Structural Engineer

Angi is your top online source for locating reputable structural engineers to address foundational cracks and degradation. Angi, formerly known as Angie’s List, gives you the resources you need to research and hire a structural engineer in your area that you can trust.

Look for structural engineers with a history of providing customers like you with outstanding service. Read reviews and choose a foundation engineer that is a good fit for your individual needs.