United Structural Systems (USS)
Knoxville's Guide to Foundation Cracks
We Guarantee Our Best — Keeping Homes Dry and Stable.
Repair Services
Foundation Repair
We address various foundation-related issues with precision. Our services include stabilizing sloping floors, sealing foundation cracks, and correcting foundation settlements.
Basement Waterproofing
Our waterproofing solutions, including efficient drainage systems, powerful dehumidifiers, and reliable sump pumps, are designed to keep your basement dry and damage-free.
Crawl Space Repair
Our comprehensive crawl space services include encapsulation, waterproofing, structural floor support, and mold remediation, creating a healthy and secure base for your property.
Mold Treatment
Mold and mildew thrive in the damp, humid conditions found in crawl spaces. The best way to prevent microbial growth is to encapsulate the crawl space with a vapor barrier and install a dehumidifier.
Sinkhole Repair
The goal of sinkhole repair is to stabilize the area and prevent the sinkhole from reappearing. That means finding and eliminating the cause of the sinkhole. If water caused the sinkhole – and it usually does – then we need to get the water under control.
Structural Repair
Moisture accumulation, pest infestation, and soil settling can compromise the stability of your home which can lead to damaged beams or joists and uneven floor support. USS is known for having the best structural repair contractors — Contact Us
Concrete Lifting
Sunken, tilted, or cracked concrete detracts from your property’s appearance and presents safety hazards. Our concrete lifting services address these issues head-on, restoring the functionality and safety of your concrete structures.
Brick & Lintel Repair
A brick veneer that’s crumbling or cracking is often a signal of foundation issues that will need to be repaired first. Once the underlying problem has been fixed, our brick repair experts will ensure your facade is good as new again.
Guide to Foundation Cracks
Serving Customers Throughout Knoxville
A cracked foundation can lead to serious structural issues that compromise the safety and stability of your entire home. When the foundation is damaged, it struggles to support the weight of the house, which can cause the structure to settle unevenly, creating problems like warped walls, slanted floors, and doors or windows that don't close properly. These issues can worsen over time, often leading to more extensive and costly repairs.
The following guide will help you understand how to identify foundation cracks and what can be done to repair and prevent them. For professional advice and services, you can always turn to United Structural Systems for assistance in Knoxville.
Call (423) 320-8883 or contact us today to learn more.
At no additional charge, we offer transferable lifetime warranties on our foundation repair and waterproofing services.
Common Types of Foundation Cracks & Their Severity
Foundation cracks can come in different shapes and sizes, each carrying unique implications for a home's structural integrity. While some cracks develop due to natural settling and may pose minimal risk, others indicate underlying problems that require immediate attention. Identifying the type and severity of a crack can help determine if it's a harmless cosmetic issue or a sign of a serious structural concern.
Consider the following common types of foundation cracks:
- Hairline cracks: These thin cracks are often surface-level and usually result from concrete shrinkage as it cures. They're typically not a cause for concern but should be monitored over time.
- Vertical cracks: Vertical cracks that run up and down are common and usually appear due to normal settling. If narrow, they're generally harmless but should be checked for any signs of widening, which could indicate structural shifting.
- Diagonal cracks: These cracks typically occur when one side of the foundation settles more than the other. While small diagonal cracks may be stable, larger ones can suggest soil movement or poor drainage and may need a professional inspection.
- Horizontal cracks: Often caused by pressure from surrounding soil, horizontal cracks are a more serious concern. They may indicate that the foundation is bowing inward, which can lead to significant structural damage if not addressed promptly.
- Stair-step cracks: Seen in brick or concrete block foundations, these cracks form a step-like pattern and can signify settling or shifting soil. Small cracks may be manageable, but larger ones should be examined to rule out structural issues.
Understanding the type and severity of foundation cracks can help you decide on the best course of action. For peace of mind, regular inspections by a professional can ensure your foundation remains strong and stable.
When Should I Worry About a Foundation Crack?
Not all foundation cracks indicate a serious problem, but some can signal structural issues that need immediate attention.
Foundation cracks that meet one or more of the following criteria should be cause for concern:
Widening cracks: If you notice cracks that are growing wider over time, it may be a sign of ongoing movement in the foundation. Tracking their progression can help determine if the foundation is unstable.
Horizontal cracks: Cracks that run horizontally along the foundation wall are often a sign of excessive pressure from the soil outside and could indicate that the wall is starting to bow. This type of crack is considered serious and typically requires professional repair.
Cracks with water seepage: Any crack that allows water to seep into the basement or crawl space can lead to mold growth, water damage, and structural deterioration. Immediate repair can prevent moisture-related issues from worsening.
Large or jagged cracks: Cracks wider than a quarter-inch or those that are jagged may indicate significant movement in the foundation. These cracks are more likely to signal structural problems than smaller, straight cracks.
Cracks paired with other issues: Foundation cracks accompanied by sticking doors, windows that don't close properly, or sloping floors may point to a shifting foundation. Together, these signs can indicate a more serious structural concern.
Monitoring foundation cracks and knowing when they need attention can protect your home from further damage. A professional inspection can give you peace of mind and ensure you catch problems before they escalate.
How to Fix Foundation Cracks & Prevent Future Damage
Although you might find a lot of DIY solutions for foundation cracks on the Internet, the best thing to do is contact a licensed contractor for assistance. Only with service from a professional can you feel confident knowing that foundation cracks are properly address, and the solutions provided can protect your home in the long run.
Sealing Foundation Cracks
There are several options for sealing existing foundation cracks that we at United Structural Systems can provide. Because cracked foundations can cause leaking—which brings a whole host of new problems—we strive to ensure maximum closure while stabilizing your foundation.
When sealing foundation cracks, we may recommend the following solutions to close cracks and reinforce your foundation:
- Helical Piers
- Steel Push Piers
- Carbon Fiber Straps
- Wall Anchors
- Slab Piers
Before we begin any work, however, we'll develop a plan customized to your home and explain our recommended solutions. We can create a plan that works within your budget, and we also offer financing solutions to make our services more affordable.
Call Us Today for Foundation Crack Repair
If you live in Knoxville and your home has a cracked foundation, it's important to address this problem as soon as possible. We at United Structural Systems can provide all of the services your home needs to regain its stability and protect your family.
Call (423) 320-8883 today or contact us online to learn more.
We offer financing plans, accept major credit cards and personal checks.
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