Drywall Cracks

For homeowners, drywall cracks can be a cause for concern.  While they may initially appear as aesthetic concerns, drywall cracks often point to hidden foundation problems, demanding the knowledge and skills of professional foundation repair services for proper resolution. 

BQ Basements & Concrete is your trusted expert with over 25 years of experience diagnosing and remedying foundation damage. Explore the origins of drywall cracks, discover effective foundation repair solutions, and understand why contacting BQ’s experts is the right choice. 

Common signs of drywall cracks include: 

• Diagonal cracks radiating from the corners of doors or windows, reaching towards the ceiling 
• Cracks above doors and windows 
• Long horizontal or vertical cracks along walls and ceilings 
• Delicate, web-like cracks spanning across walls and ceilings 

Small hairline cracks serve as indicators of potential foundation issues. As these cracks expand in size, the likelihood of actual foundation damage rises. 

Common causes of drywall cracks include: 

• Soil settlement and displacement: Each home experiences a natural ground settling process as the underlying soil compacts over time. However, if there is an overabundance of settling, or if it occurs unevenly due to factors like soil expansion, erosion, or compression, it can lead to foundation cracks that manifest on the drywall. This is the most common reason for drywall cracks. 
• Foundation structural issues: Issues with the foundation, such as sinking footings or cracked slabs, can result in drywall cracks as the foundation shifts. 
• Remodeling or additions: Adding weight to specific areas of a home, like constructing an addition or installing hefty materials such as tile, stone, or wood flooring, may result in foundation settling and subsequent drywall cracking. 
• Leaky plumbing: Water leaks and moisture seepage from underground pipes, gutters, and various sources have the potential to erode soil and destabilize foundations. 

Here’s what you can do: 

• Small cracks can be patched and painted for a temporary improvement in appearance. However, it’s crucial to remember that without addressing the foundation issues, these cracks may reappear.  
• In the case of significant cracks, it may be necessary to replace damaged drywall after undertaking essential foundation repairs such as pier systems, waterproofing, or wall reinforcements. 

At BQ Basements & Concrete, our foundation repair experts thoroughly analyze the origins of your home’s drywall cracks and implement tailored solutions. We employ our exclusive foundation repair techniques, which include: 

• Utilization of steel foundation piers (such as helical or push piers) driven deep into the ground to provide robust reinforcement. 
• Implementation of waterproofing systems, including interior drainage and sump pumps. 
• For homes supported above a basement: installation of wall anchors, steel I-beams, and/or carbon fiber straps, as well as pier systems. 
• For homes supported above a crawl space: incorporation of crawl space support jacks. 

It’s crucial to address drywall cracks promptly for several reasons: 

• Drywall cracks indicate potential structural foundation instability. 
• Neglecting cracks may lead to pricier foundation repairs in the future. 
• Cracks can allow moisture to seep in, hastening foundation deterioration. 
• Unattended cracks can detract from the aesthetics of your home and potentially lower its value, making it more challenging to sell. 
• Postponing repairs worsens and intensifies the existing settlement issues. 

Contact BQ Basements & Concrete today to schedule a free inspection and receive a quote for your foundation repairs. We’re committed to delivering prompt, lasting solutions that safeguard your home from further damage.