Cracked walls are a common issue in homes, but not all cracks are the same. Some are minor and easily fixed, while others could signal serious structural problems. This guide will help you identify whether the cracks in your walls are superficial or if they point to a deeper issue that requires a structural engineer.
Understanding the Causes of Wall Cracks
Before determining whether your wall cracks are a concern, it's important to understand what might cause them. Cracks can appear for a variety of reasons, including:
Natural settlement of foundations: As the foundations of your home settle over time, it can cause minor cracks in the walls, especially in older houses.
Temperature changes: Fluctuating temperatures can cause materials like plaster and drywall to expand and contract, leading to cracks.
Uncontrolled water: Uncontrolled water such as pipe leaks, poor stormwater drainage and garden taps discharging directly onto the ground, all promote foundation movement, which causes wall cracks.
Nearby construction: Nearby construction activities with heavy machinery can cause ground vibrations and disturbances, which may result in wall cracks appearing in your home.
Understanding the potential causes can help you assess the severity of the cracks you’re noticing.
How to know if your crack is superficial
Most cracks in walls are harmless, especially if they’re minor and don’t change over time. Here’s how to spot superficial cracks:
Small, hairline cracks: These are often only deep enough to affect the surface layer, such as paint or plaster. They’re usually nothing to worry about from a structural perspective. However, recurring superficial cracks can become a persistent maintenance issue, detracting from the home's finish and requiring regular repairs.
Location of the cracks: Cracks that form around the corners of doors, windows, or in the seams between walls and ceilings are commonly the result of the house settling and natural material shrinkage.
Stable over time: If the crack hasn’t changed in size or shape after a few months, it’s probably cosmetic.
These types of cracks are typically easy to fix. You can fill them with plaster or filler, sand them smooth, and repaint the area without needing professional help.
When Cracks Signal a Serious Issue
Larger cracks or those that worsen over time could indicate a structural problem. It’s essential to pay attention to:
Size and depth: Cracks that are wider than 5mm, or that extend deeper into the wall, may be a sign of a more serious issue, like shifting foundations or load-bearing issues.
Location: Cracks that appear in load-bearing walls or near structural points like beams or foundation walls are more concerning as they could signal a risk to the building’s structural integrity. If you are unsure about whether your wall is load bearing - we have a short guide
Crack movement: If the crack is widening or changing shape, it suggests the building is shifting, which may be due to problems with the foundations - which needs professional investigation.
Visible gaps or shifting walls: If you notice your walls bowing or your doors and windows no longer fit properly, these could be signs of structural movement.
If you spot these types of cracks, it’s time to call a structural engineer.
A structural engineer will conduct a thorough assessment of the cracks and your home’s overall structure. They can determine whether the cracks are a sign of structural damage and propose the best course of action.
What a Structural Engineer Will Do
When you contact a structural engineer, they will carefully assess the situation, looking at:
The size and pattern of the cracks: They will measure the cracks and inspect their pattern to identify potential causes.
The surrounding structure: They will check for signs of further damage, such as bowing walls or shifting doors and windows.
Possible causes: Whether the issue is related to foundation settlement, moisture damage, or a load-bearing wall failure, they’ll pinpoint the root cause of the cracks.
Once they’ve determined the cause, the engineer will outline the best options for fixing the problem, which might include foundation repair, reinforcing walls, or waterproofing the structure.
How to Fix Serious Cracked Walls
If the cracks are linked to structural issues, repairs typically involve more extensive work than just patching the wall. Some solutions include:
Foundation repair: If the issue is related to foundation settlement, your engineer may recommend underpinning or stabilising the foundation to prevent further movement.
Wall reinforcement: For cracks in load-bearing walls, the engineer may suggest adding reinforcements such as steel beams or braces.
Moisture management: If water damage is contributing to the cracks, proper drainage or waterproofing measures will need to be installed.
These solutions require professional expertise, as addressing the root cause of the problem is crucial for the long-term stability of your home.
Don’t panic if you spot a new crack in your wall
Cracked walls are a common issue, but not all cracks are cause for concern. Superficial cracks are often harmless and easy to fix, but if you notice large, worsening cracks or cracks in load-bearing walls, it’s time to consult a structural engineer. Early intervention can prevent more serious structural problems down the line, saving you time, stress, and money.
If you’re unsure about the cracks in your home or need a professional assessment, don’t hesitate to call a structural engineer. They can provide the expertise you need to ensure your home remains safe and stable for years to come.
If you're worried about cracks in your walls, contact Vision Structures for a comprehensive assessment. Our team of structural engineers can help determine whether you need repairs and guide you through the best solutions.