What Does a Cracked Foundation Mean for Your Home, and How Can Excavation and Masonry Contractors in NJ Help?

A cracked foundation sounds bad—because it is! Excavation and masonry contractors in New Jersey often find themselves pouring new foundations on sites where older homes used to stand, after the homeowner or investor decided that the cracked foundation was too risky to continue with. Is your home’s foundation cracked? It could be a little problem, or a huge problem. See what excavation contractors in NJ know about this problem and what your options are!

What Causes Cracked Foundations?
Most of the time, cracked foundations are not due to the foundation being made “wrong,” but due to excessive pressure from outside forces. This can include major temperature shifts that put pressure on the concrete, water leaks or drainage issues on your property, or the natural settling of the earth. For over half of homeowners in NJ, foundations crack due to clay content in the soil. Occasionally, foundations can be damaged due to improper masonry, but the natural environment is a bigger issue.

Big Problem or Little Problem? Masonry Contractors in NJ Weigh In
If your foundation has cracked, you may notice some visual signs. Obvious cracks in your foundation or the walls of your basement are clear indicators of foundation problems. Less obvious signs include a sagging or uneven roof, a chimney that leans away from the home, cracks on your walls, and cracks at the edges of windows and doors. The good news that many demolition contractors in NJ know is that most of this damage is cosmetic—sure, you may need new paint or thicker moulding around the door to hide the cracks, but your home will stand strong. Big problems occur mostly due to water intrusion. If your basement cracks are leaking or growing larger with time, you need to contact a masonry contractor in northern NJ right away for repair or replacement. Residential excavation contractors in Hawthorne NJ can help prevent big problems by mitigating damage through effective drainage solutions that keep the water away from your foundation as well.
Foundation cracks can be serious, and every home should be evaluated on an individual basis. If you need help with your home’s foundation or drainage, call RFC Excavation for help.