SERVPRO of East Nashville, Madison, Goodlettsville - Why should you check walls for cracks?

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

Older houses and new builds all have their host of accents that we were not expecting. Often the sight of a crack makes homeowners cringe with fear. SERVPRO in East Nashville wants to try and help you understand why not all cracks are a homeowner’s worst nightmare.

The only way to truly determine the impact of a crack that you have found in your home is to hire a professional (expert) to physically examine the issue. However, you may have the ability to examine and determine if the crack that you have uncovered deserves more attention.

Houses often settle within a short period of time after being constructed, although, the settling process can also take years. So we recommend you keep an eye out for cracks that may show up in your home. Small minor wall cracks are normally the sign of the gentle settling process of a home after construction. If you see horizontal crack lines, gaping cracks, and separation - this may need your attention and can be signs of more major issues.

In the event that you notice a vertical crack on your wall that is beginning at the top (apex) of where your wall and ceiling meet - this is normally a sign of a settling issue. However, a horizontal crack that has more of a jagged appearance - this can be a more dire situation and can be a sign that you have foundation shifting - or water damage.

If the crack you find has a stair-step appearance (running both horizontal and vertical) - this can be a situation that happens if you have an unfinished basement. The stair-stepping crack has the potential to be a result of soil settling beneath the center of your wall.

At SERVPRO we recommend that you call an engineer to properly determine what a crack that you have found truly means. After an inspection - if it is determined that you have water damage or dealing with the aftermath of a storm - please call SERVPRO in East Nashville at (615) 488-8670.