Do Foundation Issues Cause Stucco Cracks?

Discover When It’s Time To Call For A Foundation Inspection

You know how San Antonio weather likes to keep us on our toes — one minute it’s blazing hot, and the next, we’re bracing for a downpour. Our homes feel it too, especially when it comes to the stucco on your walls. If you’ve noticed a few cracks starting to show, you might be thinking, “Is it just the heat, or is something bigger going on here?” Spoiler alert: it could be your foundation trying to tell you something.

At G.L. Hunt, we’ve seen it all when it comes to San Antonio homes, and we’re here to help you determine whether those stucco cracks are just cosmetic or if they’re waving a red flag about your foundation. Let’s break it down.

What Is Stucco?

Stucco is a durable and versatile material often used for exterior walls. It’s particularly common in areas like San Antonio, where its weather-resistant properties are appreciated in our hot, humid climate.

Made from a mixture of sand, cement, lime and water, stucco can add a sleek, attractive finish to your home. However, like any material, it’s not immune to damage — especially if your home’s foundation is shifting or settling.

How Does Direction Signal The Severity Of Cracks?

Stucco cracks come in all shapes and sizes, but some are more concerning than others. Knowing the difference between vertical and horizontal cracks can help you understand what’s really going on with your home.

Are Vertical Cracks In Outside Walls Bad?

If you spot vertical cracks snaking up and down your stucco, it’s time to pay attention. These cracks often appear after your home’s foundation begins to settle or shift. However, in San Antonio, our expansive clay soil can cause foundations to shift more dramatically, leading to more pronounced vertical cracks.

The good news? They start small. The bad news? They can widen over time if the foundation keeps moving. While hairline cracks might seem harmless at first, they could lead to more serious concerns as they get worse. Reach out to our team if you suspect your home is in trouble.

What Do Horizontal Stucco Cracks Mean?

Horizontal cracks, are usually more serious and can indicate bigger issues with your foundation’s stability. They form when pressure builds up, and in San Antonio, the combination of clay-heavy soil and seasonal weather changes can create the perfect conditions for this type of damage.

Horizontal cracks can indicate that your foundation is under stress. These cracks are often wider and more serious than vertical ones, so if you notice them, it’s time to act.

When To Worry About Cracks In Stucco: Heat vs. Foundation Concerns

Not every crack is a disaster waiting to happen. After all, the city’s scorching sun could be the cause of cosmetic damage. There are a few telltale signs that should set off some alarms. Here’s what you should know:

Location Can Make A Difference

Foundation cracks often appear around windows, doors or corners of the house, where structural stress is highest. They can also appear near the base of the home, where the foundation shift is more pronounced. Heat-related cracks are more random and can appear on any part of the wall, not necessarily near high-stress areas like windows or doors.

Size Can Signal When Repairs Are Needed

Cracks from the heat are often shallow, surface-level cracks. They’re usually thin, like spider webs, and don’t get much wider over time. Foundation cracks tend to be wider and may grow over time. If the crack is greater than 1/8 inch in width, it’s likely foundation-related.

Monitor Your Home For Consistency

If you notice similar cracks in multiple areas, such as on different walls or floors in interior rooms, this can be a sign of a widespread foundation issue. The heat that causes your exterior stucco to watch wouldn’t have the same effect on your enclosed spaces.

G.L. Hunt Provides Long-Lasting Foundation Solutions

At G.L. Hunt, we know how important your home’s safety is to you. That’s why we’re committed to providing long-lasting foundation repair solutions that tackle the root of the problem. Whether your stucco cracks are caused by normal settling or more significant foundation issues, we’ll provide a thorough inspection and offer personalized solutions to restore your home’s stability.

As a proud part of the San Antonio community, we’re familiar with the unique challenges homes face here, from clay soil shifts to unpredictable weather patterns. We tailor our foundation repairs to meet the specific needs of this city’s homes, ensuring your foundation stays strong for years to come.

Don’t Ignore Your Stucco Crack Concerns – Call G.L. Hunt Today!

Stucco cracks aren’t just an eyesore — they could be the first sign of foundation issues that lead to bigger headaches down the road. At G.L. Hunt, we’re all about catching these problems early, saving you from costly repairs and stress.

So, why wait until it gets worse? Our team is ready to inspect, identify and repair your foundation problems! Contact us today and make sure your home stays safe and strong for years to come!