Should I Worry About A Hairline Crack In My Foundation?

Are You Observing a Thin Crack in Your Home’s Foundation?

If you’ve noticed a slender crack forming in your house’s foundation, you’re probably concerned about it and unsure of what to do. Below, we’ll provide you with additional details regarding hairline cracks in foundations, including their definition, formation process, and recommended actions.

Defining Hairline Cracks in a Home’s Foundation

Think of the width of a strand of hair, and you’ll have an idea of what a hairline crack looks like. These cracks are extremely narrow and maintain a consistent width throughout their length.
To determine if your foundation has a hairline crack, you can perform a simple “penny test.” Hold a penny against the crack, and if the penny’s edge is thicker than the crack’s width, then it is indeed a hairline crack.

The Formation of Hairline Cracks in Foundations

Several factors contribute to the creation of cracks in your home’s foundation:

  • Soil moisture levels 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.
  • Temperature fluctuations. Changes in hot and cold weather can 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, it’s advisable to consult a drainage expert who can help you find a solution to divert water away from your home. This will prevent excessive moisture from saturating and destabilizing the soil around your foundation.

Should You Repair a Hairline Crack in Your Foundation?

At the very least, it is recommended to have a trusted foundation repair company inspect a hairline crack in your foundation. Although these cracks are thin, they can allow moisture to seep into your crawl space or basement, potentially leading to mold and water damage.
Hairline cracks can also widen over time, posing a structural threat to your home. Fixing a hairline crack is a relatively simple procedure when done by a professional. However, repairing a large crack will be more challenging and costly. For this reason, experts typically advise getting the crack inspected and repaired sooner rather than later.

Require a Foundation Inspection? G.L. Hunt Foundation Repair is prepared to help! Contact our Fort Worth foundation repair experts today to schedule an appointment.

Get Your Free Estimate Today!

Our team values honest and transparent communication, and that extends to our pricing. Contact our experts to get your free estimate today!

We’re Here To Help Your Texas Property

Everyone was professional and hard working. They explained the process in detail as it was happening. I’m incredibly happy with the result and highly recommend GL Hunt!

Kevin Jones
San Antonio, TX

The Tech was on time, helpful, knowledgeable and nice. All of my questions were answered politely. I would definitely recommend

Elizabeth Hays
San Antonio, TX

Carol helped me out greatly to get the required paperwork completed and keep our project on time! Thank you so much Carol

Gabina Dehoyoz
Austin, TX

Great customer service! Joshua was very thorough and professional. If you need detailed work definitely reach out to this company.

Holly Roska
Austin, TX

Heather was very helpful and kind and worked efficiently to help get a re-inspection date for our slab on a building we purchased.

Clinton Pye
Fort Worth, TX

Jason is very knowledgeable and did a thorough job of inspecting my property. I love his dedication to the practice.

Alicia Alvarez
Dallas, TX

Aimee Called very quickly after I requested an appointment online. Was very thorough and offered 2 appointments within 1-2 days

Judy Gros
Fort Worth, TX

Excellent customer service, full of knowledge regarding all things foundation, and patient with my many questions. I strongly recommend!

Maura Bischoff
Austin, TX

Jermy was a great technician, very knowledgeable and friendly. He took the time to go over all of my questions and provide advice.

Gus Norm
Dallas, TX

Proud To Be Recognized For Our Hard Work

BBB accredited business logo
angi super service award 2020 angie's list logo
certified contractors network logo
fixr logo
home advisor screened & approved seal
porch logo
the good contractors list icon
angi super service award 2024 icon