Should I Worry About A Hairline Crack In My Foundation?

What Hairline Cracks Mean for Your Property

Spotting a crack in your foundation can feel alarming. Is it just a cosmetic issue, or could it be a sign of something more serious — like foundation settling? Hairline cracks may seem small, but they can hint at underlying problems that could lead to costly repairs.

Understanding how to tell if a crack in your foundation is serious and addressing it early is key to protecting your home’s stability and value. Below, our team at G.L. Hunt Foundation Repair will provide additional details regarding hairline cracks in foundations, including their definition, causes of formation and recommended actions.

What Are Hairline Cracks In A Foundation?

A hairline crack is as narrow as the width of a strand of hair and maintains a consistent width along its length. These cracks are often small but shouldn’t be ignored.

To determine if your foundation has a hairline crack, you can perform a simple “penny test.” Hold a penny against the crack. If the penny’s edge is thicker than the crack’s width, then it’s indeed a hairline crack.

Common Causes of Hairline Cracks in Foundations

Several factors contribute to the creation of cracks in your home’s foundation. One factor is the soil moisture surrounding the foundation. The soil can shift, expand and contract as it gains and loses moisture throughout the year. This movement can exert pressure on your home’s rigid slab foundation and result in crack formation.

Changes in hot and cold weather can also cause the foundation and the surrounding soil to expand and contract. Over time, this repetition can lead to cracks.

While you can’t control the temperature in your area, you do have some influence over the soil’s moisture. If you notice water pooling around your home’s foundation due to rain or your sprinkler system, we advise that you consult a drainage expert who can help you find a solution to divert water away from your home.

Should You Repair Hairline Foundation Cracks?

If you’re wondering how to tell if a crack in your foundation is serious, the answer often lies in its size and behavior over time. While hairline cracks are not immediately hazardous, they can worsen without proper care. This makes early action a good idea.

Below are some reasons why you should schedule repairs when you notice cracks forming:

• Even small cracks can let moisture enter your basement or crawl space, leading to mold and water damage.
• Hairline cracks can widen over time, becoming a structural risk.
• Early repairs are less costly and less invasive than fixing larger cracks from foundation settling.

At G.L. Hunt, we’re here to provide foundation inspections and repairs, ensuring your home remains in great shape.

Don’t Wait — Protect Your Home!

At G.L. Hunt Foundation Repair, we specialize in identifying and repairing foundation settling cracks, including hairline cracks in foundations. Our Fort Worth experts are here to provide reliable solutions to protect your home. Early action can save you time, money and stress in the future, so reach out to schedule your service today.