Cracks; What They Mean for Me and My Home
Cracks in your property can be a sign of structural or foundation problems and can be very costly to repair. Cracks can also indicate that the property may need immediate attention from a structural engineer or specialist contractor to prevent further damage. It is important to have any cracks in your property inspected by a qualified professional to assess the extent of the damage and determine the best course of action.
Most common type of cracks:
- Hairline Cracks: These are thin, shallow cracks that are usually caused by the natural settling of the house over time.
- Stair-Step Cracks: These are larger, more pronounced cracks that can indicate potential foundation issues.
- Diagonal Cracks: These are also larger cracks that can indicate a more serious problem, such as shifting of the foundation or walls.
- Spalling Cracks: These are cracks that appear in the surface of concrete, masonry, or stucco walls, and can indicate water infiltration or improper installation.
What causes cracks?
Cracks can be caused by a variety of factors, including settling of the house over time, inadequate foundation support, changes in ground moisture levels, extreme weather conditions, ground vibrations and overloading. It is important to identify the source of the problem to properly address the issue. Once the cause of the crack has been identified, a qualified professional can help determine the best course of action to repair the damage.
How will it affect me and my home?
Cracks can be a sign of a more serious problem with the structure of the property. Cracks can indicate that the building is not as structurally sound as it should be and could be in danger of collapse or further damage. It is important to take steps to identify and repair any structural issues to ensure the safety of your home and those who live in it.
It is also important to note that cracks in your home can have a significant negative impact on the value of your property. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need to invest in costly repairs to prevent further damage and ensure safety. If you are selling, and the damage is extensive, you may be forced to lower the value of your property or sell it as is. Buyers may be less likely to purchase a property with visible cracks or other signs of structural damage.
If the damage is minor, you may be able to fix it yourself. However, it is important to remember that any structural issue should be assessed by a qualified professional to ensure the safety of your home and those who live in it.
When do I engage a structural engineer to fix cracks?
It is important to engage a structural engineer or specialist contractor if the problem is too complex to fix yourself or if the cracks are extensive and potentially indicative of a larger structural issue. A structural engineer can assess the damage and help you determine the best course of action to repair the problem. The engineer may recommend additional inspections, such as soil testing or x-ray scans, to properly assess the condition of the property.
Is it covered by Insurance?
According to theaa.com you’ll have to check your policy. Insurers will likely cover you for accidents like fires and floods, as well as heave and subsidence.
However, settlement is not usually covered as standard, nor long-term structural damage that’s been developing for some time.
Get a free quote on a structural inspection today from CMQ Consulting Engineers at 01628617877 and protect the safety of your family and your investment. Schedule an inspection now and be sure that your home is secure from any potentially dangerous issues.
