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The Cracking Brick Wall in Franklin ,TN

Cracking brick wall

Staircase cracks in brick walls are common and often concerning for homeowners. These cracks follow the mortar lines in a zigzag pattern, closely resembling a staircase. This crack pattern is often indicative of underlying foundation problems. Understanding the cause and solution for these cracks is crucial in maintaining the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of your home.

Before Repair:

A staircase crack that ran through the brick wall of the Reyes family’s Franklin, Tennessee, home was a concerning sight to them. This zigzag pattern is a telltale sign of foundation issues. This made the family increasingly anxious about the structural health of their beloved home. They worried about the potential for further damage and the aesthetic impact this damage had on their charming property.

After Repair:

The homeowners contacted The Foundation Specialist, a trusted local company with glowing testimonials from happy homeowners. The team led a comprehensive evaluation and devised a plan to stabilize the foundation. After communicating the plan to the homeowner and addressing any questions, the team got to work reinforcing the foundation. Using advanced techniques, the team installed push piers to lift the wall back to its original position. After the lift, our team sealed the brick with a high-quality masonry sealant. This treatment ensured long-term stability and protection against future damage to the home.

Repair Summary:

The results were satisfying. The staircase crack was expertly repaired, blending seamlessly with the original brickwork. The family was relieved and impressed by the quality of the work. With the added assurance of a reliable warranty from The Foundation Specialist, they felt confident in the lasting integrity of their home. Now, they could take pride in their property again, knowing it was beautiful and structurally sound.

Causes of Staircase Cracks

Foundation Settlement:
  • Over time, soil beneath a home’s foundation can shift or compact, causing the foundation to settle unevenly. This movement places stress on the brick walls, leading to staircase cracks.
Solution:

Experts conduct a thorough inspection to identify the extent of the foundation damage and the precise reasons for the cracking. This assessment guides the repair strategy. Depending on the severity of the settlement, foundation specialists may use techniques such as underpinning, which involves installing piers or piles to lift and stabilize the foundation. These piers are driven deep into stable soil or bedrock, providing a solid base for the home’s foundation.

Soil Erosion or Expansion:
  • Changes in moisture levels can cause soil to expand or erode, further impacting the foundation’s stability. This is especially common in areas with clay soil, which inflates when wet and contracts when dry.
Solution:

Once the piers are in place, hydraulic jacks may be used to gently lift the settled portion of the foundation. This process carefully raises the wall to its original position, closing the staircase cracks and restoring structural alignment.

Poor Construction Practices:
  • In some cases, inadequate construction techniques or inferior materials can contribute to the development of cracks as the structure ages and settles.
Solution:

On newly built homes, helical piers are occasionally used for added support. These tools are uniquely suited for both heavy and light structures, such as stoops, decks, and wing walls. The weight of your home is transferred from the original, unstable soils, through the piers, to the competent soil or bedrock.

Conclusion

Staircase cracks in brick walls are more than just an eyesore; they signal potential foundation issues that can compromise the safety and value of a home. By addressing these cracks with comprehensive foundation repair, homeowners can restore the stability and beauty of their property. This proactive approach not only prevents further damage but also enhances the long-term durability of your home.

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