When you think about foundation cracks, the first thing that comes to mind is probably a home in Staten Island. And for a good reason – foundation cracks are a common problem in this area due to the high level of moisture in the soil. But foundation cracks can happen anywhere, and they can be caused by various things. In this article, we’ll take a look at the different types of foundation cracks, what causes them, and how to repair them.
What are foundation cracks, and what causes them on Staten Island?
Foundation cracks are a common problem in both residential and commercial buildings. They can be caused by a variety of things, including foundation settlement, foundation heave, and foundation cracks.
Foundation settlement is the most common cause of foundation cracks. This happens when the soil underneath the foundation starts to compact, causing the foundation to sink. Foundation heave is the opposite of foundation settlement, and it’s caused by the expansion of soil underneath the foundation. This can be due to things like moisture or changes in temperature. Foundation cracks can also be caused by structural problems, such as a poorly designed foundation or foundation that wasn’t properly constructed.
How to repair foundation cracks on Staten Island
If you have foundation cracks in your home or business, it’s important to repair them as soon as possible. Foundation cracks can cause a number of problems, including foundation settlement, foundation heave, and foundation cracks.
If you’re unsure how to repair foundation cracks, there are a number of options available. You can call a foundation repair company, hire a foundation contractor, or do it yourself.
If you’re going to repair foundation cracks yourself, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, you need to identify the type of foundation crack you have. Second, you need to determine the best way to repair the foundation crack. And third, you need to make sure the foundation crack is repaired properly.
If you’re not sure how to identify the type of foundation crack you have, there are a few things you can look for. Cracks in the foundation that runs vertically are usually caused by foundation settlement. Cracks that run horizontally are usually caused by foundation heave. And cracks that run diagonally are usually caused by foundation cracks.
Once you’ve identified the type of foundation crack you have, you need to determine the best way to repair it. For foundation settlement, the best way to repair foundation cracks is with foundation piers. Foundation piers are devices that are driven into the ground and attached to the foundation. They help to support the foundation and prevent it from settling further.
For foundation heave, the best way to repair foundation cracks is with foundation jacks. Foundation jacks are devices that are placed on top of the foundation and attached to the foundation. They help to support the foundation and prevent it from expanding further.
When repairing foundation cracks, it’s important to make sure the foundation crack is repaired properly. This means making sure the foundation crack is filled in completely and that the foundation is level. If the foundation isn’t level, it can cause foundation settlement.
If you have foundation cracks in your home or business on Staten Island, it’s important to repair them as soon as possible.
Prevention tips to keep foundation cracks from happening to your Staten Island Home:
- Have a foundation specialist inspect your foundation regularly and have any necessary repairs made as soon as possible.
- Keep the foundation and surrounding soil dry; make sure gutters and downspouts are directing water away from the foundation.
- Plant trees and shrubs at least 10 feet away from the foundation to avoid roots damaging the foundation.
- Avoid putting too much weight on the foundation, such as by parking vehicles on the foundation or storing heavy objects on it.
If you do find foundation cracks in your Staten Island home, don’t panic! Many foundation cracks are simply cosmetic and pose no structural threat. However, if the cracks are large or appear to be getting bigger, you’ll want to have them professionally repaired. Foundation cracks can sometimes be an early warning sign of foundation problems, so it’s always best to err on the side of caution.
Conclusion
If you’re a homeowner in Staten Island, it’s important to be aware of the possibility of foundation cracks. While most foundation cracks are simply cosmetic and pose no structural threat, it’s always best to have them professionally repaired just to be safe. By following some simple prevention tips, you can help keep foundation cracks from happening in the first place. And if you do find foundation cracks, don’t panic – they can usually be easily repaired.
Call Basement Waterproofing Staten Island today for a foundation crack repair!
