Skip to main content
Resource Article

Diagonal Cracks in Walls: Cosmetic Issue or Major Concern?

WRITTEN BY:
BAY Crawl Space & Foundation Repair
|
Home » Diagonal Cracks in Walls: Cosmetic Issue or Major Concern?

A report from CoreLogic (a global property data company) found that about 1 in 10 homes in the US were impacted by natural disasters in 2021. All kinds of events can damage a property, and there may be long-lasting signs.

Diagonal cracks in walls can appear after a natural disaster, but in some homes, they simply appear over time. If you’ve recently noticed any in your home, you’ll understandably be concerned. These cracks can raise questions and concerns for homeowners, and you may have no idea what’s causing them.

In this article, we’ll help you understand what diagonal wall cracks mean, when to worry, and what steps to take if your home is at risk. Let’s get started.

Understanding the Nature of Wall Cracks

Wall cracks may often have similar appearances, but they can be very different. They may vary in terms of:

  • Direction
  • Width
  • Depth
  • Location

All of these factors can provide clues about what’s happening to your home’s structure.

Diagonal cracks usually run at an angle of 30 to 75 degrees, and often emerge from the corners of doors or windows. These locations are naturally weaker spots in walls, so when a structure is under stress, these are where cracks are most likely to start appearing.

Cosmetic vs. Structural Cracks: How to Tell the Difference

When it comes to wall cracks, the most important question is: Are the cracks superficial or structural?

Determining this can help you decide what to do next. There are a few ways you can better understand a crack in your wall.

The Width of the Crack

Hairline cracks are typically less than 1/16 inch. They are typically cosmetic and may be caused by:

  • Drying plaster
  • Minor settling
  • Temperature changes

Wider cracks (about 1/8 inch or more) can indicate foundation movements. These should be inspected in case they present a structural issue.

Crack Pattern

Diagonal cracks that are narrow and taper off are generally minor. Stair-step cracks can appear in brick or block foundations, and these often indicate structural movement. Diagonal cracks that widen over time are a red flag for foundation settling or shifting.

Location

As previously mentioned, cracks often initiate near doorways, windows, and corners. These can indicate stress, and if your doors or windows stick or don’t open properly, this is another sign of structural problems.

Recurrence After Repair

You might have patched a small crack in the past. If another crack reappears in the same location, it’s likely more than just a surface issue.

Common Causes of Diagonal Cracks in Walls

Wall cracks can appear for various reasons. Understanding the causes of wall cracks is an essential part of identifying the right solution.

Foundation Settlement

Differential settlement is one of the most common causes of diagonal wall cracks. This is when one part of your home’s foundation settles lower than the rest. Such foundation issues can place strain on the structure, often leading to angled cracks.

Soil Movement or Erosion

Virginia and North Carolina have a variety of soil types, including expansive clay that shrinks and swells with moisture changes. Improper drainage and poor grading can lead to erosion or moisture buildup around the foundation. This can affect your home’s stability and structural integrity.

Improper Construction or Weak Footings

Homes with poorly designed foundations or inadequate structural support can develop stress points over time. These are especially common in regions with fluctuating weather and moisture levels.

Excessive Moisture in Crawl Spaces

Excess humidity or standing water in crawl spaces can cause various issues. One of these is the weakening of wooden joists and beams, causing structural sagging that manifests as cracks in upper walls.

When Should You Be Concerned?

It can be tricky to know when you should be worried. As a rule of thumb, if a crack is growing or if there are other signs of foundation damage, you should probably have it inspected by a professional. Here are some other key warning signs to look out for:

  • Sloping or uneven floors
  • Doors and windows that stick
  • Gaps between walls and ceilings
  • Cracks in exterior bricks or foundation walls
  • Mold or musty smells coming from crawl spaces

If you notice multiple of these, there are likely deeper structural issues.

What You Can Do

If you’ve noticed diagonal wall cracks and are concerned, don’t panic. These steps can help you protect your home.

Document the Damage

Take photos of the cracks, taking note of their size and location. Mark the ends with a pencil and monitor whether they grow with time.

Inspect Other Areas of the Home

Check for signs of issues elsewhere. Look at:

  • Floors
  • Ceilings
  • Exterior Foundations
  • Crawl spaces

They can all offer clues about what’s happening.

Don’t Rely on DIY Fixes Alone

Patching a crack can improve the appearance of your home temporarily, but it won’t stop an underlying issue from getting worse. Cosmetic wall crack repair is only suitable if the root cause has already been professionally addressed.

Schedule a Professional Inspection

professional inspection is the most reliable method to assess your home’s current condition. BAY Crawl Space & Foundation Repair can provide a free inspection to determine if your home has any serious issues to be concerned about. We can then advise you on the best course of action.

Professional Repair Solutions

Depending on the cause and severity of any diagonal cracks in your home, the best approach can vary. Some common solutions include:

  • Foundation pier systems
  • Crawl space stabilization
  • Waterproofing and drainage
  • Crack monitoring
  • Epoxy injections

The Cost of Ignoring the Problem

Many homeowners delay repairs because cracks seem minor, but small issues, if ignored, can rapidly escalate into significant problems. Ignoring cracks can lead to:

  • Costly structural repairs
  • Decreased property value
  • Mold or moisture damage
  • Safety risks for you and your family

Peace of Mind Starts With an Inspection

It can be difficult to determine whether diagonal cracks in walls are a minor cosmetic issue or a major structural problem. A professional inspection is the best way to be sure and determine what to do next.

BAY Crawl Space & Foundation Repair is the #1 rated crawl space and foundation repair company in the Coastal VA & NC region. With thousands of 5-star reviews, you can trust us to provide excellent service every time.

Book your free inspection now!