What does your crack look like?
At some point, all residences will show cracking in the sheetrock. Evaluating and finding out the possible source of the problem can mean huge savings in repairs. Here is a short list of what we see most commonly during our inspections:
If you need help figuring out what's going on with your foundation, contact us for a free inspection.
- Straight line.
Most straight-line cracks are caused by improper taping when the sheetrock was installed. If you see tape pulling away from the wall, look around the rest of the room for other similar signs. This is a repair that most homeowners can undertake by themselves if in a limited scope. Larger sheetrock repairs will probably need the help of a professional.
- Discolored cracks.
A discoloration, usually of a yellow tint, indicates a leak or water damage as a result or the cause of the crack. Finding the source of the water is key to understanding the root cause. If the stain is fresh and still damp, the leak is active. Take note of current weather conditions as well… could it be the result of a recent rainstorm? The roof is not the only thing that can leak during a storm, windows can also leak, particularly during a storm with high winds.
- Diagonal, large crack.
This type of crack is most commonly seen when the residence has foundation problems. Call a professional to inspect your home and evaluate the situation as soon as you can. The consultation is usually free and can give you a much better idea of the problem.
- Hairline cracks around windows and doors
These cracks are most likely the result of the house moving and settling. Depending on the severity of the crack, there could be foundation problems, but these could also be due to more benign issues, like settling of new homes.
If you need help figuring out what's going on with your foundation, contact us for a free inspection.