Common Basement Problems: Foundation Cracks

Vertical Cracks

As the most common type of crack, a vertical crack is the type you are most likely to encounter. Vertical cracks go straight up and down, or slightly diagonal, and occur in the foundation of homes of all ages. Vertical cracks are usually the product of the settling of the foundation. This can occur in homes of any age, but are especially common in new construction. These types of cracks, although minor, can still allow water to seep into your basement.

The good thing about vertical cracks, however, is the fact that they are generally the easiest and least expensive to repair. StayDry offers crack injection repair designed to seal cracks in your foundation, preventing water damage. An epoxy solution is injected into the crack, it continues to expand until the entire crack is sealed.

Diagonal Cracks

This type of crack runs at a 30-75 degree angle along your foundation or basement wall and will generally be wider at one end than the other. These types of cracks are caused by uneven settling of your foundation, when one side settles at a different rate than the other. This can occur because soil erodes at different rates or if your home is built on a hill. While still common, this may be a bit more intensive and expensive to repair.

While the same epoxy solution is injected, the reason for the uneven settling of your home will need to be addressed; whether it is improper drainage around the foundation of your home or something more serious. StayDry professionals will perform an obligation free inspection and evaluation of your home, diagnosing the reason your home is settling at different rates.

Horizontal Cracks

Cracks that run sideways, horizontal to the ground, are the most serious types of cracks. They can mean serious structural integrity issues with the foundation of your home and can cause serious foundational damage. Most common in homes with brick or block foundations, we’ve also seen them in homes with poured concrete foundations. Horizontal cracks can be caused from bowing basement walls due to hydrostatic pressure or outside soil pressure. If you notice a crack like we’ve described, we suggest repairing it as soon as possible for the safety and structural integrity of your home.

StayDry professionals will evaluate the crack and suggest the best course of action. This will usually include our StayWall Technique which involves reinforcing the foundation of your home, preventing further cracking.

Don’t Hesitate, Call StayDry Today!

StayDry offers the most comprehensive and effective foundational crack treatments in Michigan. We’ve been in business for over 100 years, amassing thousands of satisfied customers. Don’t go it alone, if you notice a crack in your foundation, call the professionals. Ask about our satisfaction guarantee and 0% financing options, you won’t be sorry. Call today at 1-800-STAY-DRY or fill out our online form  and we’ll get right back to you!

Answers to Common Questions About Basement Waterproofing

• • What Can I do to Prevent Water Seepage in a Basement?
  • How to make sure your Basement Stays Dry
  • What Should we do to Stop Seepage in a New Foundation?
  • When is the Best Time to Have my Basement Waterproofed?
  • What Can I do When my Basement Leaks After it Rains?

What Kind of Basement Waterproofing Do I Need in Michigan?

Interior French Drain System Installation in Michigan

If your basement fills with water after a rainstorm, we might suggest installing a French drain system. A common, proven approach the French drain has been installed for nearly 150 years. StayDry uses the Hydroflo system, which is backed by a 100 percent fully transferable lifetime warranty. Learn more about our French drain installation. The French Drain is one of the best ways to fix basement leak repair in Michigan.

Basement Waterproofing for Homeowners

• • • A Homeowners’s Guide to Basement Waterproofing
    • Common Basement Waterproofing Problems
    • Basement Waterproofing Definitions

Are you looking for basement waterproofing in a particular area of Michigan? We provide services in the following areas: Southeast Michigan, Eastern Michigan, Central Michigan, Western Michigan, and Northern Michigan. We also provide our services to Northern Ohio and Northern Indiana.