Cracked, Bowed or Bulging Walls Horizontal, open cracks are typically a sign that your basement wall is beginning to push in or even buckle. Horizontal cracks are often caused by frost heave (expansion of water when it freezes) against the wall or heavy wet soil from hydrostatic pressure. These types of cracks may denote a structural issue and should be addressed immediately. Vertical cracks in poured concrete walls may be a result of settling. These types of cracks often occur inside the corner of a window opening or beam pocket. Vertical cracks in block basement walls is often a sign of blunt trauma to the outside wall often done during the back fill process. Step cracks usually appear from minor settling in block basements. Fine step cracks in isolated areas are usually not structural. These may require minor repair to prevent moisture from leeching into your basement. Open step cracks are more of a concern. This means that more substantial settling has taken place. If you see dirt,mud, sediment or stains on the wall or floors around the cracks, this means the soil outside is pushing through the cracks. This should be addressed immediately. Bowed or bulging basement walls means your wall is buckling from the pressure exerted on it by the outside dirt and water. If this is not treated, eventually your basement wall may collapse and further damage may be caused. A bowed wall typically can be repaired using structural support and wall bracing. It is also imperative to reduce the pressure on the outside wall. This typically requires the replacement of the to reduce the soil moisture and hydrostatic pressure being exerted on the wall. Cracked basement floors, where part of the slab appears lower than the rest, is a sign of floor settling. Large open cracks in the floors are gateways for water and insects to infiltrate your home and should be addressed.
