Category: Underpinning

Yes, wall cracks are something you need to worry about. The main reason for this is that they can indicate issues with your property’s foundation or its structural integrity, potentially requiring concrete foundation repair. Over time, these cracks can worsen and become significant safety hazards.

Besides that, cracks can allow water to seep into the home. Not only will this damage the interior finishes as well as belongings, but it can also lead to mould growth, which is harmful to health.

For this post, we’ll discuss how to assess wall cracks, what causes them, and who to call to resolve them.

How to Assess House Wall Cracks

The following are the main ways you can assess house wall cracks:

Visual Inspection

Start with a simple visual assessment. Look at the width, length, and location of the crack. Hairline cracks, commonly found in most homes, are often due to the natural settling process and may not pose a significant issue. However, if the crack is wider than a few millimetres, it might suggest a more serious underlying problem.

Physical Examination

Feel the crack with your hand. If the two sides of the crack are level, it’s often a superficial issue. But suppose one side is higher than the other. In that case, it might suggest a differential settling of the house’s foundation or possible underpinning problems. Remember, unevenness across a crack can also lead to other issues.

Check for Other Signs

While focusing on the crack, don’t forget to look around for other potential signs of structural problems. Doors or windows that stick or are hard to open, gaps where walls meet ceilings or floors, and sloping floors can all be indicators of foundation or framing issues.

What Causes Cracks in My House?

The main causes of cracks in a house are the following:

• Foundation settlement: Over time, a house’s foundation can settle due to soil movement or changes beneath it. This can lead to cracks in walls, floors, and the foundation itself.
• Thermal expansion and contraction: Building materials expand and contract with temperature changes. Using the right materials and proper installation can help minimise foundation movement.
• Moisture and water damage: Excessive moisture or water intrusion, whether from leaks, poor drainage, or high humidity, can weaken building materials and cause them to crack or warp.

Who Should I Call for Help Regarding Wall Cracks?

You need to call a foundation repair specialist for help regarding wall cracks. These individuals are experts in assessing and repairing structural issues, ensuring that any wall cracks caused by foundation problems are properly addressed and fixed.

Wall cracks can often signal deeper foundation problems, and these specialists can determine the root cause and recommend appropriate solutions. Addressing the issue early with the right professional can prevent more extensive damage and costly repairs in the future.

Yes, you can minimise foundation movement on your property. A few ways you can prevent the movement of your foundation are by ensuring proper drainage, monitoring the trees you plant, and addressing plumbing concerns immediately.

It is also best to get a solid foundation right from the start. Consulting with a licensed engineer and underpinning contractor before setting up a property can go a long way in minimising movement.

In this blog, we’ll talk more in-depth about preventing foundation movement and its associated issues.

How Can I Prevent Foundation Movement?

The following are the most common ways you can prevent foundation movement on your property:

Ensure Proper Drainage

It’s vital to direct water away from your property’s foundation. Install gutters and downpipes, ensuring that they channel rainwater at least 2 metres away from your home. Maintain the gradient of your garden so that water flows away from your property. This prevents the soil around your foundation from becoming excessively soaked and stops wall cracks from forming.

Monitor Trees and Plants

Large trees close to your home can extract substantial amounts of water from the soil, causing it to shrink. If planting trees, opt for species with non-invasive root systems, and place them at a safe distance from the property. Regularly prune or manage mature trees to control their water uptake and reduce potential damage to the foundation.

Address Plumbing Issues

Leaks from broken pipes or poor plumbing can introduce unwanted water into the soil around your foundation. Ensure that your plumbing system is regularly checked and promptly address any leaks. This prevents localised soil saturation which can lead to differential settlement or movement.

Opt for a Strong Foundation

If constructing a new property or extending an existing one, consider investing in a deep or reinforced foundation, especially if you’re in an area known for problematic soil. Consult with a structural engineer to determine the best foundation type, whether its pier and beam, raft, or another appropriate method for your specific site conditions.

What Are the Soil Classifications in Melbourne?

The following are the main soil classifications in Melbourne:

• A: Stable sand and rock – minimal ground movement
• S: Mildly reactive clay
• M, M-D: Moderately reactive clay or silt (shifts with moisture variation)
• H1, H1-D: Highly reactive clay
• H2, H2-D: Very highly reactive clay
• E, E-D: Extremely reactive soil
• P: Soft soil with varying fill depths (reactive due to unusual moisture or unclassifiable sites)

Is It Normal For Footings to Move?

Yes, it is normal for footings to move within expected limits. Generally, wall cracks under 1 mm are seen as standard foundation movement. Wall cracks between 1 mm and 5 mm should be watched throughout all seasons for a year.

A closer look will be necessary for homes showing notable signs your home needs foundation repairs. If your property is over a decade old, it’s best to consult your builder first.

In more serious scenarios, these cracks might need extensive repairs. Cracks over 5 mm are viewed as significant and exceed acceptable levels of movement. Shifting foundations might also lead to protruding walls, doors, or windows that jam or become misshapen.

You should get in touch with a certified civil or structural engineer to understand the underlying cause of excessive movement. If poor build quality is identified and is the fault of your builder, then they ought to handle the necessary corrective work and repairs as soon as possible.

Cracks in walls or ceilings, uneven floors, and doors that stick are some of the most common signs indicating your home needs foundation repair. Noticing gaps between the wall and floor, including exterior brickwork cracks, are also indications you need to get your foundation fixed.

It’s always best to consult a foundation repair expert if you suspect you require concrete underpinning.

In this blog, we’ll expand more on the signs that could indicate the need for foundation repairs.

How Will I Know When My House Needs Foundation Repair?

You will know when your house needs foundation repair by noticing the following signs:

Cracks in Walls or Ceilings

Cracks in walls or ceilings are often a telltale sign of foundation issues. While minor hairline cracks can be a natural part of a home’s settling process, more significant fractures indicate potential problems. The soil in Melbourne can expand and contract due to variations in moisture levels.

As this happens, the foundation can shift, causing stress on the walls and ceilings of the home. As a result, cracks can form. It’s essential to monitor these cracks and, if they grow or multiply, seek the advice of a foundation expert.

Uneven or Sloping Floors

Floors that appear uneven, sloping, or sagging might signal foundation distress. A stable foundation ensures that the entire home remains level. However, if one part of the foundation sinks or settles more than another, it can result in an uneven floor.

In Melbourne, where the ground can have varied soil composition, uneven settling is not uncommon. Walking across the floor and feeling a tilt or placing a ball and watching it roll in a particular direction can indicate this issue.

Sticking Doors or Windows

When doors or windows become challenging to open or close, it could be due to foundation shifts affecting their alignment. An adequately aligned foundation ensures that door and window frames remain square. However, foundation movement can warp these frames, causing doors and windows to stick or not fit correctly.

While there might be other reasons for sticking doors or windows, like humidity or poor installation, persistent problems in multiple areas of the home often point to foundation concerns.

Wall and Floor or Ceiling Gaps

Noticing gaps between where the walls meet the floor or ceiling can be alarming. This separation often indicates that the home’s foundation is moving. As the foundation shifts, it can pull walls away from the floor or ceiling, creating these gaps.

While minor separation can be due to other factors like temperature fluctuations, significant gaps, or rapidly widening spaces, it should be a cause for concern, warranting an immediate foundation inspection.

Exterior Cracks

The external appearance of a home can also hint at foundation problems. Visible cracks in the brickwork, facade, or even the foundation itself should not be ignored. These can be signs of foundation movement or settling.

Although some minor cracks can be attributed to the natural ageing process of a home, deep cracks or those resembling a stair-step pattern, especially around doors or windows, can indicate a severe foundation issue that needs attention.

Is Getting Foundation Repair Expensive?

Depending on the extent of the repairs needed, foundation repairs can become expensive. The total cost will still depend on the severity of the issues as well as how long it takes to repair the foundations. 

Who Do I Call for Foundation Repairs?

You should call a foundation repair expert to address foundation problems. These professionals are experienced in handling such issues and can provide the proper solution after a thorough assessment.

Foundation repairs typically take between 1 to 3 weeks to complete, although this duration can vary based on several factors. 

When addressing minor problems, repairs can be completed within a week. However, more severe damage necessitating extensive repair might stretch the process to 3 weeks. Ensuring that any repair work is thorough and precise is essential, as Melbourne’s weather patterns can exacerbate untreated or poorly treated foundation problems. 

Our team has been underpinning Melbourne homes for years. For this blog, we’ll expand more on the factors that affect the time it takes to complete foundation repairs.

Factors That Affect Foundation Repair Timeline

The following are the main factors that affect the foundation repair timeline:

Amount of Damage

The extent of foundation damage directly influences the repair timeline. Minor cracks or shifts can be addressed more quickly, often within a few days. In contrast, extensive damages, such as major structural issues, might require several weeks of work. The deeper and more widespread the signs you need foundation repair, the longer the process is going to take.

Location of Damage

Where the damage occurs on a foundation plays a role in the repair time. Damage located in easily accessible areas can be fixed faster. However, if the damage is under heavy built-in structures or hard-to-reach areas, it might need additional time for excavation or strategic repair approaches, extending the duration.

Home Size

The size of the home has a direct correlation with the foundation repair timeline. Larger homes have more ground to cover, and potential damages can be more spread out. Thus, they often require a more extended period for inspection and repair. On the other hand, smaller homes or units might have their foundation issues resolved more swiftly due to the lesser area to address.

How Long Does a Specific Foundation Repair Approach Take?

The information below provides an estimate of how long the different types of underpinning methods will take:

Pier Systems

Pier systems, commonly used to correct settling or sinking foundations, involve driving steel piers into the ground until they reach a stable soil layer. Once in place, the structure is then lifted and secured to these piers.

This method generally takes between 1 to 3 days for a standard-sized home. However, the timeline can be slightly extended if multiple piers are needed or unforeseen complications arise.

Crawl Space Supports

Crawl space supports are installed to correct sagging floors above crawl spaces. Often made of steel, these supports are strategically positioned to provide the necessary lift and support.

A typical installation process for a house with noticeable sagging areas can be completed within a day or two. However, if the entire crawl space requires extensive support adjustments, it might stretch to a week.

Basement Wall Repair

Basement wall repairs typically involve reinforcing the wall using steel beams or carbon fibre strips, especially for bowed or cracked walls. Minor cracks can be sealed and reinforced within a day. More substantial repairs, like installing wall anchors or braces, might take 2 to 4 days.

It’s crucial to ensure the wall is stabilised to prevent further movement or damage, and the timeline can vary based on the severity of the wall’s condition.

The different types of underpinning are pier and beam, mini-piled, screw pile, and pit methods. These house underpinning techniques vary based on how they are applied by experts.

In this post, we’ll talk more about the different types of underpinning as well as the best type of underpinning.

Types of Underpinning Methods

The following are the most common types of underpinning methods:

Pit Method

The pit method, also called traditional or mass concrete underpinning, is an approach in underpinning that has been used for a long time. It involves manually excavating pits below the existing foundation in sequential order.

Once a pit is excavated, it is filled with concrete before moving on to the next one. These concrete pits, once set, act as a new foundation beneath the existing one, providing additional support and stability. How long foundation repairs take will depend on the size of the project but this is considered a fairly quick process. 

Pier and Beam Method

The pier and beam method in underpinning is a technique used to strengthen a building’s foundation. Instead of laying a continuous foundation, this method uses spaced vertical piers made from concrete or steel driven deep into the ground.

These piers provide support to horizontal beams upon which the structure sits. If a building starts to settle or its foundation becomes unstable, additional piers can be added, or existing ones can be adjusted. By doing so, the building is lifted and re-levelled.

Mini-Piled Underpinning

The mini-piled method in underpinning involves using small-diameter piles to stabilise or strengthen a building’s foundation. These mini piles are driven or drilled deep into the ground, reaching stable soil layers or bedrock. This method is especially useful when the ground conditions are challenging, such as in areas with limited access, weak surface soils, or nearby existing structures. 

Once installed, the mini piles offer support to the structure, preventing further settlement or shifting. The method is suitable for modern residential and commercial properties due to its minimal disruption.

Screw Pile Method of Underpinning

The screw pile method in underpinning involves using steel piles with helical blades that are mechanically screwed into the ground. These piles are designed to penetrate deep into stable soil layers, providing a solid anchor for structures above. The helical design allows for efficient installation with minimal soil displacement.

Once anchored securely, the structure’s weight is transferred to these screw piles, stabilising or lifting it as needed. The method is particularly beneficial in sites with challenging soil conditions, limited access, or environmental restrictions.

What is the Best Type of Underpinning?

The best type of underpinning is the screw pile method. The main reasons for this are that the approach is quick, minimally invasive, and environmentally friendly, as no excavation is needed. 

Once the screw piles are installed, they immediately bear the load of the structure, reducing the risk of further settlement. Suitable for various soil types and loads, helical piers have become the go-to solution for ensuring building stability, rectifying foundation problems, and preventing future issues.

Concrete slabs are fundamental elements in modern Australian homes. They are the most common floor type installed in Australia. In fact, in March 2021 it was estimated that 27 percent of all installed floor types were concrete slabs.

 In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about concrete slabs.

What is a Concrete Slab?

A concrete slab is a common structural element of modern buildings, primarily used as a floor or foundation. It is a flat, horizontal surface made of cast concrete.

Homeowners in Australia might have a concrete slab as the foundation of their home, supporting the various loads and elements of the structure. The slab is typically laid on a level layer of substrate, possibly with reinforcing materials like rebar or wire mesh to increase its strength and durability. The slab is also typically what is repaired when underpinning a house.

Depending on the design and purpose, there might be different types of concrete slabs, such as ground-bearing slabs or suspended slabs, each with its construction method and application. Concrete slabs are appreciated for their durability, low maintenance, and resistance to pests and moisture.

Want to learn about the benefits of underpinning? Check out our blog here.

What Are the Most Common Types of Slabs?

The following are the most common types of concrete slabs used today:

Slab on Ground

A slab on ground is a type of concrete slab that is laid directly on the natural ground. The slab is reinforced with steel mesh or bars, and it often includes a damp-proof membrane between the concrete and the ground to prevent moisture from seeping through. Slab on ground is commonly used in areas where the ground doesn’t have significant slope or instability issues, offering a sturdy and reliable foundation.

This type of slab is popular because it is relatively inexpensive and simple to construct, making it suitable for many domestic and commercial applications.

Conventional Slab

A conventional slab, also known as a traditional slab, is reinforced with steel bars and is usually supported by concrete beams. The beams and slab are poured simultaneously, making the construction process more streamlined.

This type of slab is widely used due to its flexibility in adapting to various ground conditions and architectural designs. A conventional slab provides a strong and resilient foundation that can withstand various stresses and loads.

Waffle Pod Slab

Waffle pod slabs utilise a network of pods to create a waffle-like grid, which is then filled with concrete and reinforced with steel. The pods create voids in the slab. This makes it lighter and more insulated than solid slabs, which can be particularly beneficial in managing temperature variations.

This design requires less concrete, making it an eco-friendly and cost-effective option. Due to these advantages, waffle pod slabs have become popular in various construction projects.

Suspended Slab

Suspended slabs are elevated above the ground, not laid directly on it. They are supported by walls, columns, or beams. These slabs are prevalent in multi-storey buildings and can also be used to create multi-level surfaces in a single-storey building, such as a garage with a room above.

Suspended slabs provide superior structural strength, allowing for greater design flexibility and the incorporation of various architectural features. Their elevated nature also offers better protection against moisture and pests.

Raft Slab

Raft slabs, or raft foundations, distribute the building load evenly over the ground area, improving stability. They are designed with a thickened slab edge and integrated internal and external beams, enhancing the structure’s rigidity.

Raft slabs are suitable for sites with softer or less stable soil as they help mitigate risks associated with ground movement.

To repoint a brick wall, you need to remove the old mortar, clean the joints, and replace it with a new mixture. You then apply the finishing touches and allow it to cure properly.

Repointing bricks is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of a brick wall especially after foundation repairs have occured. Doing so will help prevent water ingress and potential damage caused by Australia’s varied climate. Additionally, it enhances a wall’s aesthetic appearance, contributing to the overall value and appeal of the property.

In this post, we’ll expand more on the steps needed to repoint a brick wall.

What Are the Steps to Repoint a Brick Wall?

The following are the steps to repoint a brick wall:

Removing Old Mortar

The first step involves carefully removing the old, damaged mortar from the joints between bricks. Chip away at the old mortar using tools like a chisel and hammer or an angle grinder.

Be sure to perform this part gently to avoid damaging the bricks. You’ll want to focus on areas where the mortar is most deteriorated.

Cleaning the Joints

Once the old mortar is removed, the next crucial step is to clean out the joints thoroughly. This involves removing all the dust, debris, and any loose material left from the removal process.

A clean joint ensures a strong bond with the new mortar, which is critical for the wall’s durability and strength.

Applying the Mortar

Preparing and applying the new mortar is the third step. The new mortar should match the existing one in terms of colour and composition.

Carefully apply the mortar into the joints using a pointing trowel, ensuring it’s well-compacted and smooth, aligning with the wall’s existing style.

Curing

The final step is allowing the mortar to cure properly. This process can take several days, depending on the weather conditions. The wall should be protected from direct sunlight and extreme weather during this period to ensure even curing.

In some cases, lightly misting the wall with water can prevent the mortar from drying too quickly.

What Do I Need to Repoint Brick?

You’ll need a chisel, hammer, angle grinder, mortar mix, pointing trowel, bucket, brush, and protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses to repoint brick.

A combination of a chisel and hammer or an angle grinder is essential for removing the old, deteriorated mortar without damaging the bricks. It’s important to choose tools that you can handle comfortably and safely. The mortar mix, which should be selected based on compatibility with the existing mortar, is mixed in a bucket to the right consistency.

Meanwhile, the pointing trowel is used to apply the new mortar into the joints, ensuring a smooth and even finish. A brush is handy for cleaning the joints after removing the old mortar and brushing off excess mortar during application.

Lastly, wearing protective gear like gloves and safety glasses is crucial to safeguard against potential injuries from flying debris and dust.

Can I Repoint Brickwork By Myself?

Yes, you can repoint brickwork by yourself, provided you have the necessary skills and tools. DIY repointing requires a basic understanding of masonry work and patience and precision to remove old mortar and apply new mortar correctly.

For larger or more complex projects, it’s best to seek professional assistance from an experienced remedial builder to ensure the work is done safely and effectively.

A remedial builder’s job involves coordinating with underpinning experts, hiring necessary plumbers, supervising external restoration works, and overseeing roof repairs.

Professionals in remedial building play a crucial role in ensuring the structural integrity and safety of structures, especially those needing significant repair or restoration. Their expertise is essential in diagnosing and addressing complex issues.

For this post, we’ll discuss the main responsibilities of remedial builders in detail.

What Are the Main Responsibilities of Remedial Builders?

The following are the main responsibilities of remedial builders:

Coordinate With Underpinning Experts

Remedial builders play a crucial role in ensuring the structural integrity of buildings. They work closely with underpinning experts, especially when dealing with issues like foundation settlement or soil subsidence. This coordination involves assessing the extent of damage, deciding on the appropriate underpinning method, and ensuring that the work complies with Australian standards.

They must also navigate local council regulations and ensure that all safety protocols are strictly followed to protect both the workers and the structure.

Hire Necessary Plumbers

Hiring skilled plumbers is essential in the remedial construction process,  especially when dealing with aged or damaged piping systems. Australian remedial builders must select plumbers who are knowledgeable in both modern and traditional plumbing systems understanding the unique challenges presented by older homes.

They must ensure that the plumbers are licensed per state regulations and can handle tasks ranging from fixing leaks to overhauling entire plumbing systems.

Supervise External Restoration Works

Supervising external restoration works is a significant responsibility for remedial builders. This involves repairing or replacing external features such as facades, balconies, and cladding. Australian remedial builders must know local materials, climate conditions, and heritage conservation requirements (where applicable).

They must ensure that restoration works are aesthetically pleasing, enhance the building’s durability, and comply with the Building Code of Australia (BCA).

Oversee Roof Repairs

Overseeing roof repairs is critical to a remedial builder’s job in Australia. This involves assessing the roof’s condition, identifying areas that require repair or replacement, and selecting suitable materials that align with Australian standards and local building codes. The builder must ensure that the roofing work addresses issues like water leaks, insulation, and durability against harsh weather conditions.

Coordination with specialists in roof tiling, metal roofing, or asbestos removal for older buildings is often required ensuring compliance with local standards and workplace safety regulations.

Can I DIY Remedial Work?

No, DIY remedial work is generally not recommended, especially for significant structural issues or specialised tasks. Remedial work often requires expert knowledge and skills, particularly in tasks where precision and understanding of building codes are crucial.Moreover, attempting DIY in areas like brick repointing with no previous experience can lead to further damage or safety risks. It’s essential to seek professional assistance for such work.

Yes, hiring a builder is necessary for home repair, particularly for complex or structural work. A professional builder brings expertise and experience, ensuring that foundation repairs are carried out safely and to a high standard. Moreover, they are knowledgeable about building regulations and can help navigate legal requirements that ensure compliance with local laws.

This blog will answer the most common questions about hiring a builder for home repair.

When Should I Consider Hiring a Builder?

You need to hire a builder for home repairs or renovations that are complex, structural, or require professional expertise. These professionals can address common home issues such as cracks in the wall.

When dealing with structural changes to your property, such as removing or altering walls, extending your home, or making significant alterations to the layout, it’s crucial to involve a builder. These types of projects often require an understanding of building codes and structural integrity.

A builder has the necessary skills to ensure that these changes are done safely and in compliance with Australian building regulations. They can also manage other tradespeople like electricians and plumbers.

A builder’s expertise is invaluable for renovations involving specialised skills, such as waterproofing in bathrooms, custom cabinetry, or complex roofing work. They have access to the right tools, materials, and techniques to ensure the job is done correctly.

What Are the Benefits of Professional Home Repairs?

The following are the benefits of getting professionals to do home repairs:

Ensures Safety

Professional home repairs go a long way in ensuring the safety of your home, especially when it comes to structural integrity and electrical work. Skilled professionals understand the nuances of building codes and safety standards. This is particularly important when dealing with issues like electrical wiring, gas fittings, or structural repairs.

Hiring remedial builders, for instance, is essential when addressing foundational or structural problems that could pose safety risks if not correctly handled.

Improves Home Value

Investing in professional home repairs can significantly enhance the value of your property. High-quality workmanship not only addresses immediate repair needs but also contributes to the home’s overall aesthetic and structural integrity. This is particularly vital when considering future resale value.

Moreover, professional repairs often come with guarantees or warranties, giving future buyers additional confidence in the quality of the work.

Saves You Time

Opting for professional home repairs saves homeowners a significant amount of time. DIY repairs often require extensive research, trial and error, and multiple trips to hardware stores, which can be time-consuming and sometimes frustrating. Conversely, professionals bring the right tools, skills, and experience to complete the job efficiently and effectively.

They can quickly diagnose issues, propose solutions, and execute repairs with precision. This efficiency not only speeds up the repair process but also minimises the disruption to your daily life.

Is It Cheaper to Hire a Builder or DIY Fix Wall Cracks?

Hiring a builder to fix wall cracks is often more cost-effective in the long term than attempting a DIY fix. A professional builder possesses the expertise to accurately diagnose the root cause of the cracks and provide a lasting solution that prevents costly repairs in the future.

Additionally, builders have access to the proper tools and materials for home repairs. This ensures they complete their jobs effectively while conforming to Australian building standards.

You can fix wall cracks by preparing the area, widening the crack, applying filler, smoothing it, and then painting or finishing as needed. This process ensures a thorough repair, blending seamlessly with the existing wall surface. Adequate preparation and choice of materials are crucial when fixing cracked walls.

In this post, we’ll discuss the steps to fix wall cracks in more detail.

Steps to Fix Wall Cracks

The following are the steps to fix wall cracks:

Prepare the Area

Clean the crack and the surrounding wall surface. Remove any loose material with a brush or vacuum, and ensure the area is dry. This preparation is crucial for the repair material to adhere properly, especially if the house is sinking and causing more stress on the walls.

Widen the Crack

Depending on the crack’s size, you may need to widen it slightly using a chisel or similar tool. This step ensures that the filling material adequately penetrates and bonds to the wall.

Apply Filler

Choose a suitable filler material. For small cracks, flexible fillers like acrylic or silicone-based products are ideal. Use a more substantial product like plaster or specialised wall crack filler for larger cracks. Apply the filler into the crack using a filling knife or spatula, making sure it’s fully filled and level with the wall surface.

Smooth the Filled Area

Once the filler has dried (follow the manufacturer’s recommended drying time), sand the area smooth. This might require a few rounds of filling and sanding for a seamless finish, especially if the crack is large or deep.

Paint or Finish as Needed

After the filled area is smooth and dry, apply an undercoat or primer, if necessary, followed by paint that matches the existing wall colour. If the wall has wallpaper or another type of finish, replace or repair that section to match the surrounding area.

Why Are My Walls Cracking?

Your walls may be cracking due to the following reasons:

• Shifting foundation: Natural settling or movement of the house’s foundation over time can cause cracks to appear in walls.
• Expansion and contraction: Changes in temperature can cause building materials to expand and contract, leading to cracks.
• Moisture damage: Excessive moisture from internal sources like plumbing leaks or external sources like rain can weaken walls or lead to cracking.
• Structural damage: Damage to the structure of the building, such as from an earthquake or poor construction, can result in wall cracks.
• Building age: Older buildings may develop cracks as materials deteriorate or as a result of long-term stress and wear.

What Happens If I Don’t Fix Wall Cracks?

If you don’t fix wall cracks, they can worsen over time, leading to more significant structural issues. Neglecting these cracks might result in increased moisture intrusion, which can cause mould and further damage to your home’s interior.

Considering these potential risks becomes essential, especially for larger or more complex cracks indicating severe structural problems.Is hiring a builder necessary for home repairs? We have a blog that answers that question in depth. Check it out to learn more.