Horizontal cracks are generally more serious than vertical cracks as they often indicate structural damage caused by external forces like uneven settling and hydrostatic pressure. On the other hand, vertical cracks, while typically less severe, can still allow water intrusion and should not be ignored.
Keep reading to learn more about the question: “Are vertical or horizontal cracks worse?”.
What are Horizontal Foundation Cracks?
Horizontal cracks run parallel to the ground and are considered particularly concerning. Unlike vertical cracks, these often indicate serious structural threats caused by external forces. They can appear in various foundation wall types, including poured concrete, concrete block, and brick. Immediate attention is often necessary, as these cracks can compromise the structural integrity of a home if left unaddressed.
Causes
The causes of horizontal cracks include:
- Soil Pressure: Some soils tend to absorb moisture and swell, putting pressure on foundation walls, then, as the soil dries and contracts, it can cause the walls to shift, resulting in horizontal cracks.
- Hydrostatic Pressure: Water-saturated soil applies continuous force against basement walls, potentially leading to horizontal cracks.
- Frost Heave: In colder climates, moisture in the soil can freeze and expand, putting pressure on the foundation walls.
- Poor Construction: Inadequate building practices, such as inadequate rebar placement, can increase the likelihood of horizontal cracks.
- Settlement: Uneven settling of a home’s foundation over time may also lead to horizontal cracks.
Repair Methods
The appropriate repair method, or combination of methods, depends on the severity and underlying cause of the crack. Severe issues should always be evaluated and addressed by a foundation repair professional.
Some of the most common repair methods include:
- Epoxy and polyurethane injections
- Carbon fiber reinforcement
- Wall anchors
- Helical piers
- Drainage systems
What are Vertical Foundation Cracks?
Vertical cracks run straight up and down or at a slight diagonal angle. They are generally less serious than horizontal cracks, but can still allow water to seep into your basement. While these cracks may not immediately pose a threat to your home’s structure, they can worsen over time depending on their cause.
As long as they remain narrow and dry, they usually aren’t a major concern. However, it’s important to monitor them closely, and any sign of moisture should be addressed promptly to prevent potential moisture-related basement issues.
Causes
The causes of vertical cracks include:
- Natural Foundation Settlement: Occurs when the structure gradually sinks, often creating vertical cracks and other minor details.
- Natural Concrete Curing Process: As concrete dries and hardens, it can shrink slightly, leading to small vertical cracks forming during the curing phase.
Repair Methods
Large vertical cracks must be repaired by a professional, but minor cases can be repaired by homeowners themselves with epoxy or polyurethane injections.
How to Prevent Horizontal and Vertical Foundation Cracks
Protecting your foundation from cracking involves multiple proactive measures. Below you will find some guidelines on how to prevent foundation cracks from EverTry Toledo. These tips are based on your experience after servicing over 80,000 basements.
1. Waterproof Your Basement
Your home’s foundation is constantly under pressure, and if water isn’t effectively redirected, it can lead to cracks. Basement waterproofing, either external or internal, is key to managing moisture. Here are the differences between external and internal waterproofing:
- Exterior waterproofing prevents water from reaching the foundation.
- Interior waterproofing controls water after it enters the home.
Other reasons to waterproof your basement include:
- Prevent water intrusion through existing or new wall cracks
- Avoid mold growth
- Prevent rust formation on stored items
- Prevent bowed walls
- Prevent efflorescence
- Reduce the risk of insect infestations
- Prevent basement flooding
- Improve energy efficiency
- Increase overall home value
2. Add Drainage Systems
Proper drainage relieves hydrostatic pressure on foundation walls and works alongside waterproofing systems. Here are some tips:
- Install gutters and downspouts to direct water away from your house.
- Ensure the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation to prevent pooling and soil saturation.
3. Soil Management
Soil conditions around your foundation can influence cracking. Here are some tips:
- Avoid planting large trees close to your house, as their roots can add pressure to your foundation walls.
- Maintain consistent soil moisture during dry seasons to prevent soil shrinkage.
4. Regular Inspections and Maintenance
Routine inspections help catch early signs of damage and mitigate any issues before they become significant.
- Regularly inspect your foundation for signs of cracks.
- Seal hairline cracks promptly to block water entry.
- At EverDry Toledo, we recommend filling hairline cracks with a standard waterproofing compound. These cracks are typically less than 1/8 inch wide.
Learn more about basement wall crack repair.
When to Consult With a Professional
To know when to call a professional, first you need to know the differences between structural and non-structural cracks.
Structural cracks, such as horizontal cracks or stair-step cracks along mortar joints, can compromise the stability of your home. These types of cracks often indicate serious issues like foundation settling or pressure buildup and should be evaluated by a professional. Cracks that are wider than 1/8 inches and keep widening over time may fall into this category and require prompt inspection.
Non-structural cracks, on the other hand, are typically smaller and do not threaten the building’s integrity. However, they can still allow water to enter, potentially leading to moisture problems. These cracks do not usually grow and can often be repaired by homeowners or with minimal professional assistance.
To learn more about the differences between horizontal vs vertical cracks in walls, and about other types of foundation cracks, visit our article on: Types of Foundation Cracks.
When is Foundation Replacement Necessary?
While most foundation issues can be repaired or improved, there are situations where replacement is the only viable option.
A foundation may need to be replaced if it shows signs of severe structural failure, such as extensive cracks, significant sinking, or advanced deterioration, that cannot be stabilized through standard repair methods. In these cases, the foundation can no longer safely support the structure, posing a risk to your family. The number and size of repairs required vary depending on the extent of the damage.
If you suspect your foundation may need to be replaced, it’s important to schedule an inspection with a professional to assess the severity and determine the appropriate course of action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about vertical vs horizontal foundation cracks.
Are Settlement Cracks Vertical or Horizontal?
Both horizontal and vertical cracks can be a sign of settlement, however, while vertical cracks are often caused by natural foundation settlement and are considered less severe, horizontal cracks can be caused by uneven settling, which leads to a variety of problems that can affect the structural integrity of the building.
Can I Repair Vertical or Horizontal Cracks Myself?
At EverDry Toledo, we tell our clients that they can safely repair cracks that are smaller than 1/8″ by themselves using a waterproofing mix, however, if you see that the crack is larger than 1/8″ and is growing larger over time, you should consult with a professional, especially if it is a horizontal crack.
How Much Does it Cost to Repair Horizontal or Vertical Cracks?
The cost to repair foundation cracks varies depending on the length and severity of the damage. Location also plays a role, as pricing can differ between regions and service providers. For an accurate assessment and a detailed quote, it’s best to schedule an inspection with a local expert. If you’re in Michigan, Ohio, or Indiana, contact EverDry Toledo for a professional inspection.
Schedule Your FREE 20-Point Inspection
If you notice large cracks or think that your foundation needs a replacement, it is better to consult with a professional. EverDry Toledo is a premier provider of basement waterproofing and foundation repair services with extensive experience serving Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana. We have been serving local homeowners since 1986 and have serviced over 80,000 basements.
Schedule your FREE 20-point basement inspection with Everdry Toledo today and take the first step toward a healthier home.
