A wall crack is serious when it’s caused by structural damage. (Remember, you can have movement in a foundation that causes a wall crack, but doesn’t cause the kind of structural damage that requires a repair.) So, here are the cracks you need to look out for:
A wall crack(s) that spans both the wall and the ceiling or floor. For example, a wall crack that goes across the ceiling and then down the wall. This is a sure sign of serious structural damage.
Any horizontal wall crack that runs the length of a wall. If the wall is also bowed, it’s even more serious.
Stairstep cracks in masonry. These cracks might be on the interior or exterior walls of the house.
Your moldings are cracked or out of place. This happens because your wall and the ceiling and floor aren’t moving in sync.
You have a wall crack that runs from the corner of either a door or a window up toward the ceiling. Sometimes, you will get hairline cracks in this area that usually aren’t anything to worry about. However, larger cracks in these areas are an indication of structural damage.
You have a wall crack caused by a gap between either the wall and the ceiling, or the wall and the floor. This is caused by significant movement in the foundation.
While tiny, hairline cracks usually aren’t serious, larger cracks (width or length) are almost always caused by the kind of structural damage that requires a foundation repair. However, there are always exceptions. If you see a wall crack that looks suspicious, contact a foundation repair professional for an inspection. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Read more about – DIY foundation repair