Basement walls are typically made out of poured concrete or concrete blocks. Concrete can crack for a number of different reasons. Some of these cracks may be innocent cracks that are not much to worry about, while other cracks may signal the need for basement wall crack repair. Here are three types of basement wall cracks that you may encounter and what they may mean.

1. Stair Step Cracks

If you see cracks that look like stair steps or are diagonal, you should be worried about the cracking. Stair step cracks and diagonal cracks are typically caused when the soil or dirt beneath the concrete wall or concrete footing starts to settle or sink due to an unstable base. This can be a tell-tale sign that you are dealing with foundation problems that need to be corrected in a timely manner. The problems will only worsen if the issue is not properly repaired.

2. Horizontal Cracks

If you see horizontal cracks on your basement walls or foundation, the cracking is likely caused by water-related problems. This may include wet soil sitting against the foundation wall and/or water freezing and sitting against the wall. Waterproofing your exterior foundation and basement walls is one of the best ways to prevent horizontal cracks from forming in the first place.

3. Shrinkage Cracks

The final type of basement wall cracks that you may notice are referred to as shrinkage cracks. Shrinkage cracks are typically surface-level cracks that are naturally caused as the concrete expands or contracts due to hot or cold weather. Shrinkage cracks are the only types of cracks that may be present that may not require basement wall crack repair, but it's always best to speak to a professional to make sure. Also, if they start to deepen or grow, repairs may be needed.

Different types of cracks can signify different types of damage that may be taking place. If you have cracks in your basement wall or foundation, it is important to have basement wall crack repair completed in a timely manner. According to Mashvisor, a real estate investment blog, homes with foundation problems sell for 20% to 25% less than homes without foundation issues. Additionally, foundation issues can continue to worsen and affect the structure of your home. If you see cracks in your basement wall, reach out to A&B Masonry, and we'll figure out why the cracks are present.