Cracks in Foundation
A crack in a foundation wall is an indication that there may be hydrostatic pressure building up against your foundation wall. A crack such as the one shown in the video below is an example of what you should look out for before finishing your basement. This small crack is not currently letting in any water but over time could possibly grow.
It is normal for some houses to have very small cracks in the foundation wall. This is know as a shrinkage crack and will be less than 1/8" wide. This will occasionally happen as the concrete cures. A shrinkage crack is sometimes difficult to identify. Usually a shrinkage crack will not appear at the end of a section of wall. Since the crack below is not located within the middle third of the section of a wall, it is safe to assume that it is not a shrinkage crack. A shrinkage crack will not go through the entire foundation wall and will not change over time.
This crack was easy to identify as it was located toward the end of a section. Another indicator was the exterior of the house. This particular section of the basement had a poor slope for the exterior grade. Not only was the crack filled with hydraulic cement, we also brought in additional topsoil to help divert the water away from the house.
It is normal for some houses to have very small cracks in the foundation wall. This is know as a shrinkage crack and will be less than 1/8" wide. This will occasionally happen as the concrete cures. A shrinkage crack is sometimes difficult to identify. Usually a shrinkage crack will not appear at the end of a section of wall. Since the crack below is not located within the middle third of the section of a wall, it is safe to assume that it is not a shrinkage crack. A shrinkage crack will not go through the entire foundation wall and will not change over time.
This crack was easy to identify as it was located toward the end of a section. Another indicator was the exterior of the house. This particular section of the basement had a poor slope for the exterior grade. Not only was the crack filled with hydraulic cement, we also brought in additional topsoil to help divert the water away from the house.
