At Grip-Tite Manufacturing, identifying the type of foundation crack is the first step in determining the right repair solution. Homeowners often reach out after noticing cracks in their walls, and knowing what those cracks indicate is crucial for effective diagnosis.
“A lot of times the thing that will prompt a homeowner to reach out is they see cracking in their foundation, whether it be inside or outside,” Corey explained.
One common type is stair-step cracking, often found in block or CMU walls. This type of crack usually indicates a bowing situation, where external pressures like expanding soils or high water content push the basement wall inward.
“A basement wall that is being pushed in due to outside pressures, expanding soils, or high water content is going to cause the wall to push in. You’ll often see stair-step cracking in the corners and horizontal cracks that run along mortar joints,” Corey said.
In contrast, settlement cracks show different patterns. They may follow mortar joints but can also extend through the block cores. These cracks often appear wider at the top and narrower at the bottom, providing guidance on how the foundation is settling.
“Being able to diagnose the difference between bowing and settlement cracks is critical,” Corey noted. “That pattern — wider at the top, narrower at the bottom — tells you which way the foundation is settling.”
By understanding crack patterns, Grip-Tite installers can accurately assess the situation and recommend the proper repair approach, giving homeowners confidence in the solution.
Learn about our Certified Grip-Tite Installer Program.