Orlando, FL · Member since 2009 · 2k+ posts · 282 votes
I noticed this stair-shaped crack recently at the concrete block rental house. I don't see any warning signs of sinkhole activity around or inside the house. I tried to stick a credit card in the gap and it wouldn't fit, so the crack is very thin at this point. Should I just put some clear caulk over it to prevent water intrusion or could this be a sign of a more serious issue? The house was built about 20 years ago.
Investor · Sarasota, FL · Member since 2008 · 17k+ posts · 17k+ votes
14y
Generally, "stair case" type cracking isn't a sign of anything more more than simple settling. If the concrete blocks were cracked, that would be more of a concern, as it would indicate greater shifting.
That said, I'm certainly not a structural engineer, so if you're concerned, have someone take a look who actually knows what they're talking about... :)
Investor · Sarasota, FL · Member since 2008 · 17k+ posts · 17k+ votes
14y
Generally, "stair case" type cracking isn't a sign of anything more more than simple settling. If the concrete blocks were cracked, that would be more of a concern, as it would indicate greater shifting.
That said, I'm certainly not a structural engineer, so if you're concerned, have someone take a look who actually knows what they're talking about... :)
Specialist · Cleveland, OH · Member since 2011 · 1k+ posts · 852 votes
14y
Bienes,
Typically the horizontal cracks are the ones to worry about. They are the ones that will cause the wall to bow.
If you are a buyer, I would really put a concern out there and use it as a negotiating tool. If you currently own it, or are selling it, it is nothin to worry about! LOL! :mrgreen:
Rehabber · Powhatan, VA · Member since 2011 · 190 posts · 21 votes
14y
I use to run inspections and provide estimates for foundation repairs and basement waterproofing. By looking at the pictures I am assuming the corner of the house is to the right. Go around that corner and about the same distance from the corner there should be another crack of similar size with the high side toward the corner.
Now go inside the crawlspace and see if the cracks are visible there.
These are signs that there are possible foundation cracks.
Another thing tp do is to see if the floors inside have pull down from the bottom of the walls and baseboards.
This can be fixed by peering the corner. We charged 1250 for each pier used. With piers going 20 feet down built in to that price, deeper is charged for each additional foot.
If you own the house and it's just a rental with no plans of selling it then I would do the weight and see what happens game. Check it again unbend months and see how it looks.
Residential Real Estate Agent · Calgary, Alberta · Member since 2011 · 3 posts · 0 votes
14y
I totally agree with J Scott.. If this cracks really concern you or your family's safety, better consult with someone who specialize in houses or construction.
Rehabber · Powhatan, VA · Member since 2011 · 190 posts · 21 votes
14y
Bienes, I would recommend having either a structural engineer or a company that specializes in foundation and slab repairs come out and look. I don't know about slabs. An engineer here is $350 and I would think a repair company would be free, but they want to sell a repair. I would spend the money for a structural engineer. Or wait and see.
Orlando, FL · Member since 2009 · 2k+ posts · 282 votes
14y
^ Thanks, I think I am going to wait and keep an eye on it. It's not causing any specific problems at this time, although I plan to caulk it to prevent ants and water from getting in.
Real Estate Investor · Pittsburgh, PA · Member since 2011 · 60 posts · 17 votes
14y
Most houses her in PA have cracks like those. They are caused by settling soil. Nothing to worry about as long as they are not 1/4 inch or wider. The ones in your photos don't appear to be even close to that wide. A little rubberized concrete crack caulk and some paint and it will look good as new.
Don't leave them unrepaired though depending on your location water may get in and freeze and or plants may root themselves in the cracks and make them worse over time.