Block walls are fairly typical to have hairline cracks. Is the exterior Waterproofed, Dampproofed or just back plaster and block or mortar against the soil. In a lot if cases, the problem can be made worse by trying to fix a small crack such as this. If the cracks were open a quarter inch or something like that, I would be a little more concerned. Horizontal cracks in a block (masonry) basement wall are caused by many of the same issues and forces as those of a poured in place concrete wall. When looking at a block wall there are several of things to watch for including horizontal cracks in the mid 1/3 area and also horizontal cracks near the bottom course of blocks. Interconnected cracks that divide the pavement up into rectangular pieces. Blocks range in size from approximately 1 ft 2 to 100 ft 2. Larger blocks are generally classified as longitudinal and transverse cracking. Block cracking normally occurs over a large portion of pavement area but sometimes will occur only in non-traffic areas. An Evaluation of the Effective Block Approach Using P-3C and F-111 Crack Growth Data Executive Summary One of the objectives of the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) is to evaluate and report on a number of non-traditional crack growth estimation methods, including the method known as the 'effective block approach (EBA)'.
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Need some advice from you foundation guys. This is out of my area.
In the pic, you can see a stair step crack going in the mortar from the top left to bottom right. I know these types of cracks aren't necessarily anything to be alarmed about, but I'm a little more concerned about the small crack you can see in one the blocks. That's that only block that has a crack.
The house was built in 1987. I think these have developed in the last year or so.
Any suggestions? Let it go for now? Any fixes that should be done? Any specific things or developments to look for in the future?
Thanks!
Pics are a real pain for me too, I have to resize them all. Even sometimes when they say they're under 1mg and should work they still don't
do you know how old this foundation is? those cracks arn't too big and look more like hair line cracks which are common but could be a result of some movement.
Almost 30 year old basement with a couple of hairline cracks is not a whole lot to be alarmed about. Block walls are fairly typical to have hairline cracks. Is the exterior Waterproofed, Dampproofed or just back plaster and block or mortar against the soil.
In a lot if cases, the problem can be made worse by trying to fix a small crack such as this. If the cracks were open a quarter inch or something like that, I would be a little more concerned.
let me guess…un reinforced block and clay soil. deal with the water and you problem should stop. clay soil and blocks are not a great combo, specially in a freeze thaw environment. I would keep an eye on it for the next year or so, put some marks on the wall and see if they seperate. If it gets much worse you're going to have to start digging
Question: if it was a moisture issue and the freeze/thaw cracked the bonds/joints could you do tuck pointing repair on this type of wall after dealing with the initial moisture issue?
un reinforced block
how would you suggest reinforcing the block? (before the build and now after the fact. )
While building you insert rebar in core holes and fill them with grout. Every 2nd 3 rd or 4th core depending on heiight and soil type,. Also using 'joint reinforcement' i call it blok lok but that's a proprietary name like Kleenex, but it's what we call it up here.
After the fact is tough. there are a few products out there like a carbon fibre strap that gets adhered to the block, but I've never used them. I might consider building a pilaster(re-inforced) in front of an area that is bulging. Do that every 8′ or less and it adds considerably to the structure
Question: if it was a moisture issue and the freeze/thaw cracked the bonds/joints could you do tuck pointing repair on this type of wall after dealing with the initial moisture issue?
yes although if you didn't do the repair exterior you'd just be spinning your wheels
Yes taking care of the intial problem is key I just wasn't sure if block could be repaired after the fact via grinding out the joints and pointing since it is foundation (very new to me)
repaired is a tough?? Is it repaired just re-pointing, no, but the problems are significantly reduced….and it looks better
I have seen clay push in reinforced block walls. The pressure wet clay exerts is immense! Definitely keep an eye on it.
Andrew
A Working Pro since 1995!
Member since March 26, 2014.
Take a look at a web site called kryton.com.
We are currently repairing a foundation crack on a neighour's home with this product. It is called Krystol T1 and T2. It is a foundation hair line crack above grade. With the application of the T1 and T2 sytem, it will grow crystals into the pores of the concrete to give it a water proof seal.Check out the video section. We have this available in Canada, and after checking their site, I believe it is available in the States.
You would have to ask a sales rep about concrete block walls though. They may have a different product for that. Let me know what you find. Thank youun reinforced block
how would you suggest reinforcing the block? (before the build and now after the fact. )
Yes concrete has very little strengh without steel in it.
Take a look at a web site called kryton.com.
We are currently repairing a foundation crack on a neighour's home with this product. It is called Krystol T1 and T2. It is a foundation hair line crack above grade. With the application of the T1 and T2 sytem, it will grow crystals into the pores of the concrete to give it a water proof seal.Sounds like a good product to keep in the ole bag of tricks when the need arises.
Automotive Pro
Fayetteville, NC
Why Block Foundations Crack
Block foundations can experience cracking due to conditions around that foundation.
Some block foundation cracks can be very serious and may require a costly fix if not taken care of right away.
It is wise to inspect your foundation frequently and be on the lookout for cracks in your block foundation.
Consult a foundation specialist or engineer to make sure that your block foundation is fixed properly.
Use our foundation engineer network to find a foundation repair expert in your area to make sure these block foundation cracks are fixed right the first time.
Block Foundation Crack Types
- Horizontal Cracks: Horizontal cracks in your foundation mean that there is pressure being put on the walls from the outside of the foundation. Pressure can come from water around your foundation. This hydrostatic pressure is a serious sign that your block foundation walls are under strain.
- Vertical Cracks: Vertical block foundation cracks are a sure sign of foundation settlement or heaving. These cracks form slowly but will widen over time due to pressure. If left untreated, they could allow water to enter the building.
- Stair Step Cracks: Sometimes, when settlement or sinking occurs with your foundation, it doesn't occur evenly. This causes stair step cracks in your block foundation.
Solutions for Block Foundation Repair
Each foundation is different so each solution will be different as well. Depending on the weight of the structure, many different types of underpinning products could be installed.
Get in touch with the right foundation repair team through My Foundation Repairs, and get started on the road to a healthy foundation today.
Remember that knowing what you are up against is half the battle. The other half is knowing who to turn to resolve the problem and if you call us, you won't have anything to worry about. Get started today!
Need some advice from you foundation guys. This is out of my area.
In the pic, you can see a stair step crack going in the mortar from the top left to bottom right. I know these types of cracks aren't necessarily anything to be alarmed about, but I'm a little more concerned about the small crack you can see in one the blocks. That's that only block that has a crack.
The house was built in 1987. I think these have developed in the last year or so.
Any suggestions? Let it go for now? Any fixes that should be done? Any specific things or developments to look for in the future?
Thanks!
Pics are a real pain for me too, I have to resize them all. Even sometimes when they say they're under 1mg and should work they still don't
do you know how old this foundation is? those cracks arn't too big and look more like hair line cracks which are common but could be a result of some movement.
Almost 30 year old basement with a couple of hairline cracks is not a whole lot to be alarmed about. Block walls are fairly typical to have hairline cracks. Is the exterior Waterproofed, Dampproofed or just back plaster and block or mortar against the soil.
In a lot if cases, the problem can be made worse by trying to fix a small crack such as this. If the cracks were open a quarter inch or something like that, I would be a little more concerned.
let me guess…un reinforced block and clay soil. deal with the water and you problem should stop. clay soil and blocks are not a great combo, specially in a freeze thaw environment. I would keep an eye on it for the next year or so, put some marks on the wall and see if they seperate. If it gets much worse you're going to have to start digging
Question: if it was a moisture issue and the freeze/thaw cracked the bonds/joints could you do tuck pointing repair on this type of wall after dealing with the initial moisture issue?
un reinforced block
how would you suggest reinforcing the block? (before the build and now after the fact. )
While building you insert rebar in core holes and fill them with grout. Every 2nd 3 rd or 4th core depending on heiight and soil type,. Also using 'joint reinforcement' i call it blok lok but that's a proprietary name like Kleenex, but it's what we call it up here.
After the fact is tough. there are a few products out there like a carbon fibre strap that gets adhered to the block, but I've never used them. I might consider building a pilaster(re-inforced) in front of an area that is bulging. Do that every 8′ or less and it adds considerably to the structure
Question: if it was a moisture issue and the freeze/thaw cracked the bonds/joints could you do tuck pointing repair on this type of wall after dealing with the initial moisture issue?
yes although if you didn't do the repair exterior you'd just be spinning your wheels
Yes taking care of the intial problem is key I just wasn't sure if block could be repaired after the fact via grinding out the joints and pointing since it is foundation (very new to me)
repaired is a tough?? Is it repaired just re-pointing, no, but the problems are significantly reduced….and it looks better
I have seen clay push in reinforced block walls. The pressure wet clay exerts is immense! Definitely keep an eye on it.
Andrew
A Working Pro since 1995!
Member since March 26, 2014.
Take a look at a web site called kryton.com.
We are currently repairing a foundation crack on a neighour's home with this product. It is called Krystol T1 and T2. It is a foundation hair line crack above grade. With the application of the T1 and T2 sytem, it will grow crystals into the pores of the concrete to give it a water proof seal.Check out the video section. We have this available in Canada, and after checking their site, I believe it is available in the States.
You would have to ask a sales rep about concrete block walls though. They may have a different product for that. Let me know what you find. Thank youun reinforced block
how would you suggest reinforcing the block? (before the build and now after the fact. )
Yes concrete has very little strengh without steel in it.
Take a look at a web site called kryton.com.
We are currently repairing a foundation crack on a neighour's home with this product. It is called Krystol T1 and T2. It is a foundation hair line crack above grade. With the application of the T1 and T2 sytem, it will grow crystals into the pores of the concrete to give it a water proof seal.Sounds like a good product to keep in the ole bag of tricks when the need arises.
Automotive Pro
Fayetteville, NC
Why Block Foundations Crack
Block foundations can experience cracking due to conditions around that foundation.
Some block foundation cracks can be very serious and may require a costly fix if not taken care of right away.
It is wise to inspect your foundation frequently and be on the lookout for cracks in your block foundation.
Consult a foundation specialist or engineer to make sure that your block foundation is fixed properly.
Use our foundation engineer network to find a foundation repair expert in your area to make sure these block foundation cracks are fixed right the first time.
Block Foundation Crack Types
- Horizontal Cracks: Horizontal cracks in your foundation mean that there is pressure being put on the walls from the outside of the foundation. Pressure can come from water around your foundation. This hydrostatic pressure is a serious sign that your block foundation walls are under strain.
- Vertical Cracks: Vertical block foundation cracks are a sure sign of foundation settlement or heaving. These cracks form slowly but will widen over time due to pressure. If left untreated, they could allow water to enter the building.
- Stair Step Cracks: Sometimes, when settlement or sinking occurs with your foundation, it doesn't occur evenly. This causes stair step cracks in your block foundation.
Solutions for Block Foundation Repair
Each foundation is different so each solution will be different as well. Depending on the weight of the structure, many different types of underpinning products could be installed.
Get in touch with the right foundation repair team through My Foundation Repairs, and get started on the road to a healthy foundation today.
Remember that knowing what you are up against is half the battle. The other half is knowing who to turn to resolve the problem and if you call us, you won't have anything to worry about. Get started today!
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