Everything You Need to Know About Cracks in Homes

Cracks in a property can cause anxiety, but they don’t always mean there’s a serious issue. Whether you’re buying or selling, it’s essential to understand what different types of cracks indicate and how to deal with them.

In this article, we’ll explore the types of cracks, their potential causes, and when to involve a professional.

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Common Types of Cracks

Cracks typically fall into two categories:

1. Stucco Cracks
   Found inside the home, these are often cosmetic and easy to fix with filler or paint.
2. Masonry Cracks
   Found in exterior walls, these may indicate more severe problems such as foundation or structural issues. Horizontal and diagonal cracks are particularly concerning.

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What Do Different Cracks Indicate?

1. Horizontal Cracks
   These are rare but often serious, pointing to foundation or subsoil issues. Consult an expert immediately.
2. Vertical Cracks
   Usually caused by material shrinkage. They’re often harmless but should be monitored if paired with other damage.
3. Diagonal Cracks
   Stair-step cracks may result from settlement or foundation problems. These typically appear around windows and doors.
4. Cracks Near Lintels
   These indicate insufficient lintel support and require structural adjustments like opening joints or replacing the lintel.
5. Material Differences
   Cracks caused by differing thermal properties of materials are usually cosmetic but may require aesthetic fixes.
6. Concrete Deterioration
   Rusty reinforcement bars can cause serious structural damage. Homes built between 1950 and 1983 are particularly at risk due to material choices at the time.

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How to Address Cracks

Follow these steps to assess and resolve cracks:

1. Inspect Thoroughly
   Document the location and progression of cracks. Growth over time could indicate active issues.
2. Understand the Type of Crack
   Determine whether it’s a harmless cosmetic issue or a sign of structural stress.
3. Consult an Expert
   Large or suspicious cracks require professional evaluation.
4. Repair as Needed
   Minor cracks can often be sealed, but serious issues like foundation settling demand professional intervention.

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Advice for Buyers and Sellers

For Buyers: Be Thorough

• Take your investigation duty seriously by asking detailed questions and inspecting the property thoroughly.
• Consider commissioning a building report to uncover hidden defects.

For Sellers: Be Transparent

• Fulfill your disclosure duty by informing buyers about known defects.
• Work with a real estate agent or inspector to ensure compliance with legal requirements.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Ignoring the Problem
   Dismissing cracks as minor can lead to costly repairs down the road.
2. Skipping Professional Help
   Always consult a specialist if in doubt. Prevention is cheaper than fixing major damage later.
3. Skipping a Building Inspection
   Inspections are invaluable for identifying hidden issues, especially in older properties.

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Cracks aren’t always a cause for alarm, but understanding their causes and knowing when to act is key to maintaining property value and safety. If you’d like more information and want to learn how to visually identify cracks, read this article on the VK Makelaars website.