Problems with the ceiling and the foundation

Throughout the years, we have been asked numerous times various versions of the same question:

What does it mean if the ceiling is cracked?
What could be causing the cracks in my ceiling?

Cracks in the ceiling are an obvious indication that the foundation has failed, whether the failure was caused by foundation settlement or foundation heave. Both of these issues are brought on by expansive soil.

It is possible for ceiling cracks to rip through your sheetrock if your home sinks unevenly and places an excessive amount of pressure on the frame of your home. This torque and pressure are transferred from the foundation to the wooden bones of your home, which in turn are transferred to the interior of your home.

Because of this pressure, the sheetrock in your walls and ceiling may become damaged and develop large, beautiful cracks.

The grunge aesthetic may be appreciated by some outliers, who may suggest that you frame the cracks because they are the perfect manifestation of the metaphor of man against gypsum board. However, other people will not value the artwork in question.

What to Look For When Looking for Cracks in the Ceiling

In the first place, it is essential to take into account the particular fracture features. There are certain indicators that can help determine whether the cracks in the ceiling are due to problems with the foundation or something else.

Cracks in the ceiling that are caused by problems with the foundation may exhibit the following characteristics:

-Cracks that are greater than one-eighth of an inch in depth (and continue to expand, and elongate over time)
-Fractures that start at the door frames or the window frames
-Cracks that go all the way through the drywall in a stairstep fashion (a sign of excess pressure transferred to the drywall)
-Bulging and bowing drywall

If your home has more than one of the characteristics described above, you should consider having a professional who specializes in foundation repair examine your structure’s base. They will then be able to determine whether or not your ceiling cracks were caused by your foundation shifting or heaving.

Do’s and Don’ts Regarding Ceiling Cracks

Do not attempt to patch and paint your way into eternity.

If you have tried to fix the cracks in the past with some good old-fashioned patch and paint, but the cracks have returned, this is a sign that these cracks are caused by a problem with the foundation. Repeated cracking is almost always an indication that the foundation has settled or that there has been a foundation heave.

Do Not Hesitate to Contact a Foundation Expert

A foundation expert will perform an inspection of your foundation and determine in a timely manner whether or not your foundation requires repair. Through the use of helical piers, push piers, and polyurethane underpinning, RLM Retrofit Foundation is able to assist you in permanently repairing your foundation’s sinking problem. Call us for Foundation Inspection Bloomington and repair services.

How to Repair Cracks in the Ceiling Bloomington
The Best Practices for Preventing Foundation Settlement Bloomington