Cracks in Basement Floors

What Are Basement Floor Cracks?

Basement floor cracks are visible lines or fissures that appear on the concrete surface of the basement floor. These cracks can vary in size, length, and direction. While some cracks may be superficial and harmless, others can indicate structural issues that require immediate attention.

Common Causes of Basement Floor Cracks

Soil Movement and Expansive Soils

Soil movement, particularly in regions with expansive soils such as the Carolinas, is a leading cause of basement floor cracks. These expansive soils have a high clay content, making them highly responsive to changes in moisture levels.  

When these soils absorb water, they expand and exert pressure on the concrete floor, leading to cracks. This expansion and contraction of the soil beneath the foundation can also be influenced by changes in the water table, seasonal weather patterns, or improper drainage around the foundation.  

Understanding the type of soil in your area and the conditions affecting its movement can be crucial for maintaining the integrity of your basement floor.

Hydrostatic Pressure

Hydrostatic pressure occurs when water accumulates around the foundation. The pressure from this water can push against the basement floor, leading to cracks.

Concrete Shrinkage

During the curing process, concrete can shrink slightly, resulting in cracks on the basement floor. This is a natural occurrence but can be exacerbated by poor construction practices or improper curing.

Heavy Loads

Excessive weight or heavy loads placed on the basement floor, such as heavy machinery or storage items, can cause stress on the concrete, leading to cracks over time. 

Can Dry Pro Repair Basement Floor Cracks?

Dry Pro specializes in repairing basement floor cracks and addressing underlying foundation issues. Our team of experts follows a comprehensive approach to ensure a long-lasting solution.

How We Address Cracks in Basement Floors

Comprehensive Assessment

Our team begins by conducting a thorough assessment of your basement floor cracks and the overall condition of the foundation. This allows us to identify the root cause and develop an appropriate repair plan.

Weight Redistribution with Foundation Piers

To address cracks caused by soil movement or expansive soils, we utilize foundation piers to redistribute the weight of the structure and stabilize the foundation. These piers reach deep into the ground beneath the foundation to find stable load-bearing soil. This helps alleviate pressure on the basement floor, preventing further cracking.

Addressing Wall Cracks

In addition to basement floor cracks, we also address wall cracks that may contribute to the foundation’s overall instability. Our solutions include:

• Carbon fiber straps 
• Steel I-beams 
• Wall anchors 
• Channel anchors

Installing Basement Waterproofing Measures

We install basement waterproofing measures such as interior drainage systems, sump pumps, and vapor barriers to prevent water damage and further deterioration. These solutions help keep your basement dry and protect against future cracks.

The Importance of Promptly Addressing Floor Cracks

Promptly addressing basement floor cracks is crucial to prevent further structural damage and potential water intrusion. Ignoring these cracks can lead to more costly repairs down the line and compromise the safety and stability of your home.

Contact Dry Pro for Expert Basement Floor Crack Solutions 

If you have noticed cracks in your basement floor, don’t hesitate to contact Dry Pro Foundation and Crawlspace Specialists. Our team of experienced professionals will provide a thorough assessment and offer effective solutions to repair and stabilize your basement floor. Trust us to ensure a secure and waterproof foundation for your home. 

FAQs

Are all basement floor cracks a sign of a serious problem?

It’s important to note that not all basement floor cracks are a sign of a serious problem. Some cracks may be superficial and not affect the structural integrity of the foundation. However, it’s crucial to have any cracks evaluated by a professional to determine the underlying cause and assess the severity of the issue. Ignoring cracks or dismissing them as insignificant can lead to more significant problems in the future, such as water intrusion, further structural damage, or compromised stability of the home. Promptly addressing basement floor cracks is essential to prevent these issues and ensure a stable and waterproof foundation.

Can I repair basement floor cracks myself?

In some cases, homeowners could superficially cover minor cracks using DIY repair kits available in hardware stores, however, we do not recommend this solution. Any cracks should be evaluated by a professional foundation repair company prior to covering. Most foundations show warning signs prior to water entry and extensive damage and covering or ignoring these cracks could cost you later. 

Will repairing the cracks prevent future ones from forming?  

While repairing existing cracks can help prevent them from worsening, it does not guarantee that new cracks will not form in the future. Factors such as soil conditions, water drainage, and foundation movement can still contribute to the development of new cracks, which is why we aim to get to the root of the issue. Regular maintenance and addressing underlying issues will help minimize the risk of future cracks. Fortunately, our services are backed with a warranty that reflects our confidence in our repairs.