Reading Exterior Foundation Cracks
The shape of an exterior crack is a clue to what’s happening underneath. Here’s how to read vertical, horizontal, and stair-step cracks on a Central Texas home.
Vertical & stair-step
Vertical and stair-step cracks usually trace to differential settlement — one part of the slab dropping. Growing ones point to settlement repair.
Horizontal cracks
Horizontal cracks in a foundation wall can signal lateral soil pressure and deserve prompt attention. Measure before assuming the worst.
What to do
Photograph and date the cracks, then book a free survey if they grow. We read these patterns daily across New Braunfels and Seguin.
- Vertical and stair-step cracks suggest settlement.
- Horizontal wall cracks warrant prompt measurement.
- Photograph, date, and re-check for growth.
Not sure how serious it is?
Get a free, ±⅛-inch elevation survey and a written, engineer-backed plan — no pressure.
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Are vertical cracks serious?
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