Once upon a time you might have needed a professional to point out the severity of the problem, but nowadays cracking in walls is regarded as something that even the Average Joe can work out is quite a serious issue.
In fact, in some cases, it can result in the whole wall falling down. Of course, this is the very worst-case scenario, but even if you start to spot hairline cracks in your wall it’s a sure-fire sign that you need an expert called out as a matter of urgency.
Unfortunately, there is no one-fits-all reason why cracks in walls occur. This is the reason behind today’s article, as we take a look at some of the main reasons cracks start to appear in the typical property’s walls.
Reason #1 – You’ve got a leak
That’s right, one of the biggest reasons why cracks in the wall have started to develop is because some system in your home has sprung a leak. This is one of the reasons why home warranty plans are now very high in-demand; they offer a lot of protection that can at least halt such a problem becoming even more severe.
So, how do leaks result in cracks? If a pipe bursts under your home, it means that excess water is flowing around the foundations. Ultimately, this water is going to wreak havoc with their stability, and before you know it cracks are developing as a result of this.
Reason #2 – There’s a big tree located nearby
Again, this next reason might raise a few eyebrows, but trees are another reason why cracks can start to develop in a home. Of course, small trees are exempt from this, but if you have anything that spans taller than your home you might be asking for trouble.
This all relates to the roots. For big trees, these roots can span far and wide and again, start to interfere with your foundations and cause subsidence. Not only that, but they can also take away water from your foundations, which can cause the soil to dry out and compromise the structural stability another way.
Reason #3 – A big tree has been felled
Following on from the previous point, under no circumstances should you ever consider felling one of these trees. While this might sound like a logical course of action, in doing this you will immediately transform the water table. It means that a lot more water is going to be swimming around your foundations and again, this is just asking for trouble.
Reason #4 – There’s a new development nearby
Finally, let’s talk about new developments. It might be an extension to your house, or a neighbouring property, or even a new estate of homes. Regardless of the reason, it can sometimes compromise the structural integrity of your home.
This is because the new foundations which have been created can impact the soil around yours. Again, it means that there are more weak points, which eventually transfer to your walls and cause the dreaded cracking.