Outside Signs – Cracks in Brick in Blanchard
What Causes Cracks in Brick in Blanchard?
Do I have a Foundation Problem?
There are a few key indicators that will tell you if you have a foundation problem. You don’t need to hire a local specialist in Blanchard or purchase any tools to find indications of failure. The key is to look around your home or office for a few simple signs. Searching for horizontal cracks in the foundation is the obvious first step. A horizontal crack is a sign of too much water pressure building up behind the foundation.
Outside Signs – Cracks in Brick
Cracks in brick can be a sign of foundation problems. These cracks can appear along the side of your building as well as on a chimney. The specific cracks you need to be on the lookout for are called stair step cracks. These cracks zigzag through the concrete that binds the bricks together. Essentially these cracks form a stair-like pattern in the concrete as it moves between the bricks. If you are able to identify these cracks in your bricks, it is likely that you have foundation problems and your investment is at risk.
What Causes Cracks in Brick?
Water is one of the most common causes of cracks in brick. Water can collect in the soil around the foundation and result in some serious problems. When water reaches the soil, the soil expands and adds stress to the walls and foundation footings – this is what causes the cracks to appear.
In Oklahoma, most foundations have a perimeter drain to move sub-surface water away from the foundation. This ensures water does not build up below the foundation. However, it is possible for the drain to become blocked and cause water to build up in the soil, which blocks the water from moving away from the house and adds pressure to the foundation. If you suspect you may have a blocked drain, contact us to assess and repair the foundation problem.
It is crucial to check for foundation failure. A great place to start is to look for moisture around your house. You want to ensure that your gutters and downspouts are clean so that excess water can move away from the perimeter of your house and towards your yard. Another easy tip is to ensure that your tree and shrubs are not overgrown, as this can create unusual movement around your foundation if roots start to grow below your foundation.
If you are unable to identify the cause of the problem, it is highly recommended that you contract a professional before the foundation of your home is even further compromised.