Atlanta, GA

Cracked Foundation Walls in Atlanta, GA

Why Foundation Walls Crack

Foundation walls crack when the stresses acting on them—whether vertical loads from the house or horizontal forces from the soil—are greater than the wall’s strength. Cracks may form as the foundation settles, as the soil around the home shifts, or as the materials shrink and age. Some cracks remain small and stable, while others grow and indicate ongoing movement.

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Types of Foundation Cracks and What They Mean

Different crack patterns tell different stories about the kind of stress the foundation is experiencing. Recognizing these patterns can help clarify what might be happening around the structure.

Vertical Cracks

Vertical cracks often arise from minor settlement or shrinkage of the concrete as it cures. They typically run straight up and down and may appear early in the life of the home.

Diagonal Cracks

Diagonal cracks that run at an angle, especially near corners, can indicate differential settlement—where one part of the foundation is moving lower than another. These cracks may widen toward one end.

Horizontal Cracks

Horizontal cracks are commonly associated with lateral pressure from the soil or water outside the wall. They can be a sign that the wall is under significant stress and at risk of bowing.

Stair-Step Cracks in Block or Brick

In block or brick foundations, cracks that follow the mortar joints in a stair-step pattern usually point to differential settlement or shifting soil beneath or beside the wall.

Map or Spiderweb Cracking

Fine, hairline cracks that form a network pattern across the surface typically relate to shrinkage or surface curing issues. They do not always indicate structural movement but can still allow moisture in.