When Should You Consider Professional Basement Crack Repair?
Basement cracks can be a scary sight for many homeowners. You might notice a small line on the wall or floor of your basement and wonder, “Is this serious?” While some cracks might be harmless, others can lead to bigger problems. If you live in Toronto, where heavy rains, snow, and temperature changes are common, it’s important to know when to take action.
This blog will help you understand when it’s time to call a professional for basement crack repair. We’ll discuss what causes cracks, the signs to look out for, and why it’s best not to wait too long. Let’s break it down in a simple, easy-to-read way.
What Causes Basement Cracks?
Basement cracks can happen for many reasons. Sometimes, it’s just because your home is getting older. Other times, the weather or the ground shifting underneath your house. Let’s look at some common causes:
- Water Pressure: When it rains a lot or snow melts quickly, water can build up around your home’s foundation. This puts pressure on the walls, causing them to crack.
- Poor Drainage: If your gutters or downspouts aren’t working properly, water can pool around your basement. Over time, this moisture can lead to cracks.
- Soil Movement: The ground under your house can expand when wet and shrink when dry. This movement can stress the foundation and cause cracks to appear.
- Temperature Changes: In places like Toronto, the weather can change fast. The freeze-thaw cycle can make materials in your foundation expand and contract, leading to cracks.
Signs You Need Professional Help
So, when should you think about calling someone for help? Here are clear signs that it might be time:
1. Water Leaks
If you notice water coming through the cracks, it’s a sign there’s a problem. A damp or wet basement can cause mould and damage your belongings.
2. Cracks Getting Bigger
If a crack starts small but gets wider over time, that’s not a good sign. This might mean your foundation is moving.
3. Musty Smell
A wet basement often smells musty. This could mean water is coming through cracks you might not see yet.
4. Mould or Mildew
These grow where it’s wet. If you spot mould on your basement walls, it could be because of leaking cracks.
5. Bowing Walls
Call a professional immediately if your basement walls start to bend or bow inward. This is a serious issue that needs quick attention.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
It might be tempting to ignore a small crack, especially if it’s not leaking water. But waiting can make things worse. Cracks can grow over time, and small problems can turn into expensive repairs. Also, a cracked foundation can lower your home’s value if you ever plan to sell it.
Toronto’s changing weather and moisture levels mean cracks can worsen quickly. A professional can examine the crack and tell you if it needs fixing now or later. They’ll also use the right tools and materials to ensure the repair lasts.
The Right Time for Basement Crack Repair
The best time to fix a basement crack is as soon as you notice something isn’t right. Don’t wait for a flood or major damage. Getting a small crack looked at today could save you thousands of dollars in the future. If you live in Toronto and have foundation cracks, it’s smart to talk to someone who knows how to handle the local soil and weather conditions. Basement crack repair done by professionals can really help.
What Professionals Do
When you call a professional, they’ll come to your home and inspect the crack. They might use moisture meters or cameras to see what’s happening. Depending on what they find, they could use:
- Epoxy injections to seal the crack from the inside
- Polyurethane foam for cracks that leak water
- Carbon fibre straps for walls that are bowing
- Exterior waterproofing to stop water before it gets to your foundation
Professionals also ensure the fix lasts. They look at the root cause of the crack and suggest ways to prevent it from coming back.
How to Prevent Basement Cracks
While you can’t stop every crack, you can do some things to lower the chance of getting them. Here are a few tips:
- Keep your gutters clean, so water flows away from your home
- Extend downspouts so water doesn’t pool near the foundation
- Grade the soil around your house to slope away from it
- Fix plumbing leaks quickly to stop water from getting into the foundation
- Use a dehumidifier in your basement to control moisture
Doing these things can help protect your home and keep your basement dry and safe.
Conclusion
Basement cracks can seem small at first, but if ignored, they can lead to serious problems. Knowing when to call a professional can save your home from damage and save you money in the long run. If you see cracks, water leaks, or other warning signs, it’s better to be safe and get them checked out. For homeowners in Toronto, Dryshield Waterproofing Toronto is a trusted name in basement crack repair and waterproofing. Their team understands the local conditions and uses the right tools to keep your basement safe and dry. Don’t wait for a small crack to become a big problem—reach out to experts who can help.
