How to Identify the Different Types of Foundation Cracks

Are you a worrier? Do you see a discoloration on your skin and expect the worst? Do you fret when your teenager is 10 minutes late when coming home from school? Do you worry when there are 13 seconds left in a playoff game and the Chiefs are behind?

Maybe you are a Kansas City homeowner and recently noticed some cracks in your foundation. Before you jump to the conclusion that your home is structurally unsound and that you need to move back home with your parents, give JLB Foundation Repair and Basement Waterproofing a call. Regardless of if the crack is structural or non-structural, we will find a solution for you that will help you sleep at night.

Non-Structural Foundation Cracks

Non-structural foundation cracks, also known as cosmetic cracks, don’t pose a threat to the structural integrity of your home. Instead, they occur over time because of changes in weather and exposure to moisture. 

Non-structural foundation cracks are typically:

  • Vertical or diagonal cracks
  • Narrow (measuring 1-2 mm wide)
  • Appear near doors or the edge of the window

What to Do About Non-Structural Foundation Cracks

Even if you think that the crack in your foundation is non-structural, call someone who knows. JLB Foundation Repair will confirm that the cracks aren’t cause for concern and will repair them. Yes, even though the crack may not threaten your home’s structure, water can still seep through them. Additionally, insects and other creepy crawlies may use the cracks to enter your home.

Structural Cracks in the Foundation

Structural cracks, on the other hand, can cause more serious problems. They may be caused by various reasons. Left unchecked, they may cause you to spend thousands of dollars on repairs.

Structural cracks are typically:

  • Stair-step cracks
  • Cracks on foundation slabs or beams
  • Vertical cracks that are wide at the bottom or top
  • Cracks measuring 1/8″ or greater in width

What to Do About Structural Foundation Cracks

Do you see some scary-looking cracks in your home? We know that you would rather bury your head in the sand instead of taking care of this problem. However, doing so may cost you more money in the end.

If you see stair-step cracks or wide cracks, call JLB Foundation Repair. We are a one-stop shop for all of your foundation needs. We can stabilize your foundation, repair the damage, and do preventative measures to keep it from ever happening again. Please understand that fixing structural cracks is not a DIY job. Only a certified specialist should handle the problem.

Call JLB Foundation Repair and Basement Waterproofing

If you are looking for a Kansas City foundation repair company, contact JLB. We are a locally-owned and operated company. The staff understands the needs of Kansas City homeowners because we live and work in KC.

We have over 60 years of experience in the industry, and we are ready to serve homeowners in Lee’s Summit, Overland Park, and all other cities in the KC Metro area.

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