What Happens If You Don't Fix That Wall Crack?

  That little crack in your basement wall might not seem like a big deal right now. You might think it's just a cosmetic flaw, something you can easily patch up or ignore altogether. But that seemingly insignificant crack could be a sign of a much larger underlying foundation problem, and neglecting it can lead to some serious and costly consequences for your home.

Ignoring a wall crack is like ignoring a persistent cough – it might go away on its own, but it could also be a symptom of something much more serious that needs attention. In the case of foundation cracks, they are often indicators of pressure from the surrounding soil, foundation settlement, or even more severe structural issues. When you leave these cracks unaddressed, you're allowing these underlying problems to continue and worsen.

One of the first things you might notice is that the crack will likely grow. What started as a hairline fracture can widen and lengthen over time as the pressure or movement continues. This not only becomes more unsightly but also creates a larger opening for water to seep into your basement.

Water intrusion is a significant consequence of neglecting wall cracks. Even small cracks can allow moisture from rain and melting snow to enter your basement. This can lead to a host of problems, including:

• Mold and Mildew Growth: A damp basement is a breeding ground for mold and mildew. These can cause musty odors, damage your stored belongings, and even pose health risks to your family.

• Damage to Belongings: Water leaks can ruin stored items, carpets, and anything else in your basement.

• Decreased Air Quality: Mold spores and dampness can negatively impact the air quality in your entire home.

• Damage to Finishes: If you have a finished basement, water intrusion can damage drywall, flooring, and paint.

Beyond water damage, neglecting foundation cracks can also exacerbate the structural issues they indicate. For example, if the crack is due to bowing walls, ignoring it will allow the pressure to continue pushing the wall inward. This can lead to:

• Increased Bowing and Shifting: The wall will become more unstable and could eventually lead to significant structural damage.

• Sticking Doors and Windows: As the foundation shifts, the frames of doors and windows can become warped, causing them to stick or become difficult to open and close.

• Uneven Floors: Foundation movement can cause the floors above to become uneven or sloped.

• Compromised Structural Integrity: In severe cases, neglecting foundation issues can compromise the overall structural integrity of your home, potentially making it unsafe.

The visual below on the left shows a basement wall with significant horizontal cracking. You can see how the blocks have shifted and how the crack provides a direct pathway for water to enter. There are visible signs of water staining and efflorescence (white mineral deposits left behind by evaporating water) along the crack.

The visual on the right shows the same section of basement wall after professional repair. In this case, the PowerBrace system has been installed. You can see the steel I-beams firmly pressed against the wall, anchored to the floor and the floor joists above. The cracks have been stabilized, and the inward pressure on the wall has been counteracted. The wall is now straight and secure, preventing further movement and water intrusion.

Ignoring a wall crack might seem like a small issue, but it can snowball into significant problems affecting your home's value, safety, and your family's health. Addressing these issues promptly with professional solutions is a wise investment in the long-term health of your home.