Cracks in Basement Floor
If your basement floor looks like it just survived an earthquake, there’s a problem. Don’t ignore it—cracks in your basement floor are a sign that the structural integrity of your basement is at risk!
At Basement Authority, we have the tools and expertise to address cracks in your basement floor. With the information here, you’ll understand why floor cracks happen and how to stop them.
What Are Cracks in a Basement Floor?
Cracks in a basement floor refer to any separation, breach, or break in the concrete floor found in your basement. Cracks frequently emerge when exterior pressure and problematic soils displace concrete.
While not all cracks indicate foundation damage, addressing them quickly prevents foundation issues from arising. As an added bonus, crack repair also defends against water intrusion or larger cracks.
Why Do Basement Floor Cracks Occur? Knowing the Causes
Numerous factors cause basement floor cracks to form and spread. Our team will help you recognize these reasons during a free home inspection:
Concrete Shrinkage
Newly poured concrete may shrink while curing. This uneven shrinkage often results in cracks. Typically, these cracks are thin and won’t impact structural integrity but can permit water seepage if extending through the slab.
Soil Movement
Over time, the ground under your home may shift due to moisture changes, causing cracks. For example, rain often leads to soil erosion below the foundation.
If the soil deteriorates, your basement settles. As the basement shifts, the concrete floor cracks from the movement.
Heavy Loads
Storing very heavy items in the basement can sometimes put excessive stress on the floor, resulting in cracks. This is especially true if the floor wasn’t made to bear such loads.
Hydrostatic Pressure
Water accumulation under your basement floor generates upward pressure, causing floor cracks. Such cracks may widen over time, especially with continuous high water pressure.
Simultaneously, water enters your basement when cracks are caused by hydrostatic pressure. Excess moisture further erodes concrete and worsens cracks.
Expansive Clay Soils
Clay soil expands when it gets wet and then shrinks when dry. If your area has clay soil, the repeated expansion and contraction can make the basement floor crack.
Identifying what caused your basement floor cracks is key for determining the right repairs. With Basement Authority, you get solutions specifically made to address these underlying problems!
Can Basement Authority Fix Cracks in Basement Floors?
Absolutely! Modern foundation repair advancements mean you don’t have to replace the whole basement floor when cracks form.
Remember, floor cracks vary—their location, type, pattern, and size indicate their severity and needed repairs. Our comprehensive inspection ensures your cracks get the proper fix.
How Basement Authority Addresses Cracks in Basement Floors: Our Repair Process
Our method has been proven effective by the countless homeowners we’ve helped since 2003. Our meticulous attention to detail and efficiency set us apart. Here’s our approach:
1. Thorough Assessment
We carefully examine each crack, recording its location, length, pattern, and width. This helps us determine if factors like ground movement, hydrostatic pressure, or heavy loads are to blame. We also study the soil conditions and overall foundation state.
2. Redistribute Weight with Pier Systems
When a basement floor starts sinking or becoming uneven due to shifting ground underneath, foundation piers can be strategically installed and driven deep into solid, underground rock.
These piers transfer the basement floor’s weight from the shifting soil to sturdy piers. Once anchored, the piers lift the basement floor back to safety, ensuring a level, stable foundation long-term.
Wall Repair
Floor cracks are caused by the same forces as wall cracks. If this is happening in your basement, wall repair is advised.
Basement Authority installs various wall repair solutions including:
Each is made to withstand heavy loads. With these solutions, you’ll prevent water intrusion and structural stress in your basement (which can prompt floor cracks).
4. Additional Moisture Control and Drainage
We can also install comprehensive water management solutions. These include an interior drainage system, dehumidifiers, and vapor barriers to thwart moisture penetration that may have come in through the floor cracks (or caused them in the first place).
We have top-tier solutions tailored to your basement’s unique needs. Our extensive experience means we expertly ensure basement floor longevity.
Why Address Floor Cracks ASAP
Act quickly to fix floor cracks before minor fissures become major foundation problems. Investing in proactive measures is important because of the following reasons:
- Cracks can rapidly expand when under constant pressure.
- Growing cracks allow increased water intrusion, potentially causing mold and erosion.
- Disregarding cracks can lead to sinking floors and structural damage.
- The longer you wait, the costlier the repair, especially if water damage arises too.
Your home’s foundation health equals your home’s stability. Don’t dismiss signs of damage like floor cracks. With Basement Authority, get swift, efficient solutions that thoroughly strengthen your basement, not just patch the surface.
Contact Basement Authority for Expert Basement Floor Crack Solutions in West Virginia
If you notice basement floor cracks, it’s time to act. Avoid the risks of structural instability and water damage.
At Basement Authority, we use top-tier techniques to repair existing cracks and reinforce your entire basement. Contact us for a free inspection and ensure your basement stands strong. Don’t settle for superficial fixes; tackle the problem fully with comprehensive solutions from Basement Authority.
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Our Locations
132 Rocky Step Rd.,
Scott Depot, WV 25560