Basement Floor Crack Repair
Expert Basement Floor Crack Repair in Maryland
While it is common for your basement floor to develop some minor cracks in the years after your home is built, some cracks are signs of an underlying structural or foundational issue with your home. Your basement floors do not bear the weight of your home, and some minor cracks are expected. However, it’s important to be able to recognize whether the cracks in your basement floor are serious and need basement floor crack repair.
At Budget Basement Waterproofing, we have over 55 years of experience in waterproofing, foundation crack repair, and basement floor crack repair in Maryland. Call us to schedule an assessment of the cracks in your basement floor and determine if they indicate an underlying problem.
What Is Basement Floor Crack Repair?
Our basement floor crack repair services can remedy minor, cosmetic cracks in your basement floor as well as more serious structural issues. We will thoroughly assess the size, location, and cause of the cracks in your flooring to determine the best way to proceed. We offer simple, cost-effective solutions to repair cracks, water damage, foundation damage, structural issues, drainage issues, and ventilation problems.
Signs You Need to Repair Basement Floor Cracks
Knowing what to look for when inspecting your basement can help you save time and money and avoid stress. If you don’t know how to repair cracks in basement floors, you should leave it to our professionals. Here are some signs that you have basement floor cracks that should be repaired by our professionals:
- Wide cracks that are ⅛” or wider
- Perimeter cracks that occur along walls
- Cracks that occur because the concrete slab has settled or sunk
- Cracks that cause the slab to tilt and become unlevel
- Cracks that spread up the basement walls
- Cracks that look like they are in a circular pattern
- Signs of mold, humidity, dampness, or water intrusion around cracks
Types of Basement Floor Cracks
In addition to understanding how severe your basement floor cracks are, you should also be aware of the different types of basement floor cracks. This will help you identify whether the cracks on your basement floor are minor, surface-level imperfections or if they are a sign of a more serious foundation problem:
- Horizontal Cracks – Horizontal cracks are serious and caused by foundation damage. Water pressure or unbalanced soil can cause the foundation wall to bow inwards and cracks to form.
- Stair Step Cracks – Stair step cracks are most common in block foundations and can pose a threat to the structural integrity of your home. They are caused by foundation settling and water problems.
- Hairline Cracks – Hairline cracks are common in new construction and usually show up within a year. They are cosmetic and minor.
- Vertical Cracks – Vertical cracks are caused by concrete curing and the natural settling of the foundation. They are not serious.
- Diagonal Cracks – Diagonal cracks are not a major structural issue and are caused by settling or curing of the concrete foundation. If the crack grows deeper within six months, it could be more serious.
- Shrinkage Cracks – A shrinkage crack is a vertical crack that occurs when the foundation shrinks due to drying out and moisture loss. They are typically not a structural issue but can be an issue if the crack grows.
- Foundation Slab Cracks – Concrete slabs can develop cracks over time, and some are not serious. If the crack is wider than a hairline crack or you can fit a quarter inside, you need an assessment.
- Structural Foundation Cracks – Structural foundation cracks are very serious and indicate an underlying problem with the structural integrity of your home. These cracks are horizontal cracks or cracks that are wider than ¼”.
- Non-Structural Foundation Cracks – Non-structural foundation cracks are ones that aren’t an issue with your home’s structural integrity. However, they can cause leaks and water damage. It can be an issue if a crack is bigger than 1-2 mm and is vertical or diagonal, especially if water is seeping in from the crack.
Causes of Basement Floor Cracks
Cracks can form in your basement floor at any point after your home is built. Usually, these are normal, non-structural cracks that occur as the home settles. However, in some cases, the cracks might be more serious and indicate poor construction, foundation damage, water intrusion, concrete shrinkage, and other concrete problems. The most common causes of serious basement floor cracks are:
- Drainage issues or water leaks
- Soil erosion or settling
- Mistakes made when the concrete was poured
- Uneven settling
Why Choose Us
Our team at Budget Basement Waterproofing has more than 55 years of experience in the industry. We provide basement and crawlspace waterproofing, foundation repair, cracked basement floor repair, drainage system and sump pump installation, dehumidifier installation, indoor air quality solutions, and more. We work meticulously yet efficiently and do everything possible to minimize disruptions to your home. Our goal is to make your home safer and more comfortable and to ensure it retains its value. All of our technicians are licensed and insured and have pride in their craftsmanship. We are committed to quality work, exceptional customer service, and leaving your home in better condition than when we arrived.
Schedule Basement Floor & Concrete Crack Repair
Call or contact us online to schedule an assessment and inspection of your basement, crawlspace, and foundation. Our experts will determine if the cracks in your basement floor are minor or a symptom of a more serious issue. We offer professional, quality basement floor and concrete crack repair services in Maryland that improve the appearance and structural integrity of your home.