However, many people don’t realize that some cracks shouldn’t be a cause for concern e.g. cracks in plaster. So, how will you know when you need crack repair?

1. Width of the cracks

One of the first factors to consider when determining whether you need foundation crack repair or not is the width of the crack. You will need to measure the width of the crack at the widest point. A simple tape measure will be adequate for this.

Cracks that measure more than 1/16- inch wide ought to be considered serious. These cracks are likely to allow water and pests such as termites in. Smaller cracks can be monitored for growth.

2. Wet or dry

Check the crack to see if there are signs of leaking. The crack may be actively leaking and would therefore be wet. In some cases, a crack may leak while you’re not watching. You should look for signs, such as water stains, puddles or dampness near or around the crack.

Moisture damage is a major cause of foundation problems. It is therefore important to have leaking foundation cracks repaired as soon as possible.

3. Signs of grinding

In some cases, a foundation crack may show signs of grinding. This means that the opposite faces of the crack are moving against each other. This often occurs as a result of changes in the immediate environment of the crack. These chances include humidity and temperature changes.

If there are signs of grinding, it is important to ensure that the crack is repaired as soon as possible. The crack is only going to get worse with time. It is also important that the underlying cause of the movement is addressed to prevent further damage to the foundation wall.