Cracks in Basement Floor

When your basement looks like it’s been through a seismic event, it’s a red flag. Ignoring cracks in your basement floor risks the structural integrity of your basement and invites groundwater intrusion.

Ohio Basement Authority has the expertise and tools required to effectively handle these cracks with the best basement repair, basement waterproofing, and foundation repair solutions.

By the end of this article, you’ll understand why basement floor cracks occur and how to end them.

Ohio Basement Authority and The Basement Guys have now merged.

What Are Cracks in a Basement Floor?

Cracks in a basement floor are defined as any gaps, separations, or ruptures in the concrete flooring. These cracks can appear when various pressures and forces displace the concrete.

Though not all cracks are detrimental to your foundation, timely attention is crucial to prevent water intrusion and further cracking.

Why Do Cracks in Basement Floors Occur?

Numerous factors contribute to the formation and spread of basement floor cracks. Our experienced team can help you identify these factors during a thorough inspection:

Concrete Shrinkage

As freshly poured concrete cures, it often shrinks. Uneven shrinkage may lead to cracks. Though usually narrow, these cracks can permit water seepage if they penetrate the entire depth of the slab.

Soil Movement

The earth beneath your home can shift due to moisture changes, leading to cracks. For example, rainfall can erode the soil under your foundation.

This soil erosion causes your basement to settle, leading to cracks as the concrete floor shifts.

Expansive Soils

Some soils—including prevalent clay—swell when wet and shrink when dry. If your home is built on this soil type, this cycle can cause your basement floor to crack.

Heavy Loads

Storing heavy items in your basement can put excessive stress on the floor, causing cracks, particularly if the floor was not engineered to support such weight.

Hydrostatic Pressure

Accumulated water below your basement floor can create a force known as hydrostatic pressure, causing the floor to crack. These cracks may widen if the water pressure remains consistent, allowing moisture to enter your basement.

Understanding the causes of basement floor cracks is vital for choosing the correct repair techniques. With Ohio Basement Authority, you gain access to methods tailored to address these root causes!

Can Ohio Basement Authority Fix Cracks in Basement Floors?

Absolutely! Thanks to advancements in basement and foundation repair technology, replacing the entire basement floor isn’t necessary when cracks appear.

Floor cracks differ in severity based on their size, pattern, nature, and location. Our comprehensive inspection process ensures that we tailor solutions based on your needs.

How Ohio Basement Authority Addresses Cracks in Basement Floors

Our tried-and-true approach has earned the trust of countless homeowners. Here’s our strategy:

1. Comprehensive Assessment

We meticulously examine each crack, documenting its location, length, pattern, and width. This allows us to determine if factors like soil movement, hydrostatic pressure, or heavy loads are involved.

2. Weight Redistribution with Pier Systems

If your basement floor is sinking or uneven due to shifting soil, we strategically place foundation piers deep into stable load-bearing strata.

These piers transfer the weight of the unstable floor to themselves, re-leveling the basement floor and providing long-term stability.

3. Wall Repair

Floor cracks often share causes with wall cracks. If your basement has both, wall repair may also be necessary.

Ohio Basement Authority offers various wall repair solutions, including:

Each solution is designed to handle heavy loads and prevent water intrusion and structural stress in your basement.

4. Interior Drainage

To counteract hydrostatic pressure and to divert any incoming moisture, we install an interior drainage system. Paired with a sump pump, this system continuously moves water away from your basement.

We offer top-of-the-line solutions uniquely suited for your basement’s needs. Our extensive experience ensures lasting basement floor integrity.

Why Address Floor Cracks Right Away

Procrastinating floor crack repair can escalate minor issues into major foundation problems, such as:

Cracks can quickly expand due to constant pressures.
Worsening cracks increase the risk of water intrusion, potentially leading to mold and erosion.
Neglected cracks can result in sinking floors and structural issues.
Delays make repairs more costly, especially if water damage occurs.

Your home’s foundation is its bedrock. Don’t dismiss floor cracks as a minor issue.

Ohio Basement Authority offers prompt and effective solutions beyond superficial fixes to fortify your basement.

Contact Ohio Basement Authority for Expert Basement Floor Crack Solutions

If you notice cracks in your basement floor, take action to avoid the risks of structural instability and water damage. Ohio Basement Authority employs advanced techniques to repair existing cracks and strengthen your entire basement.

Contact us for a free inspection to ensure your basement remains stable and strong. We treat your home as our own and make sure the job is done the right way the first time every time.

FAQs

Are cracks in my basement floor dangerous or just cosmetic issues?

While some minor cracks may simply be cosmetic, larger cracks can indicate structural issues within your home’s foundation. Ohio Basement Authority’s expert team carefully inspects each crack to determine if it poses a structural concern or risk of water infiltration.

Should I be concerned about moisture coming through the basement cracks?

Yes, cracks can provide an entry point for water seepage. Continued moisture can lead to mold, mildew, and foundation damage. Our customized repairs are designed to permanently block water intrusion.

How much does it cost to repair cracks in a basement floor?

Costs vary depending on the number and type of cracks and the repair technique needed. Ohio Basement Authority provides free estimates; you’ll know the exact cost before any work begins. Our experts will recommend the most effective and affordable repair options.