If you’re a homeowner with a solid slab foundation and recently upgraded your floors, you may notice foundation cracks in your home. While some cracks may be minor, others can be more noticeable. Naturally, this might raise concerns and leave you wondering whether these cracks should be a cause for worry regarding your foundation. Understanding foundation cracks in Baton Rouge starts with knowing what factors determine their severity. Ask these four helpful questions from WCK Foundation Repair to learn if it’s time to call a foundation repair expert.
1. How Wide Are the Cracks in Your Baton Rouge Foundation?
Have you ever heard mysterious creaks and noises in your home and wondered what they were all about? You might have been told it’s just the house settling, but that explanation often raises more questions.
House settling is real and often responsible for foundation cracks in Baton Rouge homes. When your home’s foundation is laid, the weight of the house gradually compresses the ground underneath it. As the seasons change, weather impacts the soil beneath your home and it naturally expands and contracts.
Over time, these movements in the earth can cause subtle shifts in the structure of your house. While most of these movements are invisible, you might be able to hear them. Only when you inspect the slab foundation can you truly understand the source of those mysterious noises.
So, what about cracks in the slab itself? Small cracks in foundation slabs, such as hairline cracks, are usually normal. The key is to assess the width of the crack to determine whether it’s a cause for concern. As a general rule, if the cracks in your Baton Rouge foundation are wider than a quarter of an inch, you should seek professional assistance.
2. Is There Moisture Around the Crack?
Another factor to look out for in assessing the seriousness of a crack is whether it lets moisture into your home. Take a peek under the flooring that’s been lifted around the crack. If you spot mildew or mold, it means moisture is seeping in. In more severe cases, you might even see mold on the baseboards or walls near the crack.
This is a clear indication that the issue requires attention. Excess moisture inside your home can contribute to structural damage and promote asthma triggers, allergies, and other issues.
3. Is the Crack Isolated to One Room?
If your home has exposed slab areas in multiple rooms, there is a simple way to evaluate foundation cracks in Baton Rouge. Follow the crack to the nearest wall, then check the same location on the opposite side.
If the crack extends from room to room, it could indicate a more significant issue than normal settling. While this does not always point to serious damage, cracks in foundation in Baton Rouge should be evaluated by a professional for accuracy. A WCW specialist can identify the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate next steps before the issue worsens.
4. Are There Other Signs of Foundation Damage?
Indicators or potential foundation damage include cracks in walls, struggling to open or close doors, or dealing with stuck windows. Surprisingly, these issues may not be limited to the vicinity of the cracks alone. In fact, you might even spot outdoor symptoms, such as cracks in your bricks or driveway.
Recognizing these signs can help you determine when to worry about foundation cracks. If any of these problems appear, addressing them early can help prevent further structural damage.
Get Expert Help from WCW for Foundation Cracks in Baton Rouge Today!
When it comes to foundation repair, it’s important to work with a professional you can trust. If you notice any cracks, it’s always better to be cautious. As time passes, foundation damage can worsen, and the cost of repairs can increase.
If you spot cracks in your Baton Rouge foundation that leave you uncertain, contact WCK Foundation Repair. We have the expertise to address any problems that may arise. Even if there’s nothing to worry about, you’ll have the reassurance of a professional opinion to alleviate your concerns. Contact us online or call (225)-664-5956 today to get a free estimate! We are here to help keep your foundation strong.