Concrete Foundation Cracks: When to Worry and What to Do

Spotting a crack in your foundation is enough to worry any homeowner, and searches for "foundation cracks DFW" and "is my foundation crack normal" spike constantly across North Texas, where clay-heavy soil puts real stress on concrete foundations.

At B.A. Concrete & Roofing, foundation-related concrete work is one of the services we handle most carefully throughout DFW and Johnson County.

Normal vs. Concerning Foundation Cracks

Generally normal:

• Thin, hairline cracks under 1/8 inch wide
• Cracks that don't grow over time
• Vertical cracks in poured concrete walls

Cause for concern:

• Cracks wider than 1/4 inch
• Horizontal cracks, which can indicate pressure issues
• Cracks that are growing, widening, or accompanied by uneven floors
• Cracks paired with doors or windows that no longer close properly

Why DFW Foundations Are Especially Prone to Cracking

North Texas's clay soil expands significantly when wet and contracts during dry periods, creating constant movement beneath foundations. This cycle, repeated year after year, is one of the leading causes of foundation cracking in the region.

What to Do If You Notice a Crack

1. Measure and document the crack's width and length
2. Take photos and monitor for changes over several weeks
3. Check for related signs — sticking doors, uneven floors, or gaps around windows
4. Get a professional assessment if the crack is wide, growing, or accompanied by other warning signs

Common Causes of Foundation Cracking

• Soil expansion and contraction from moisture changes
• Poor original grading directing water toward the foundation
• Inadequate reinforcement during original construction
• Plumbing leaks beneath the slab causing soil erosion

Tips for Preventing Future Foundation Issues

• Maintain consistent moisture levels around your foundation with proper watering during dry spells
• Ensure grading directs water away from your home
• Address drainage issues promptly rather than letting water pool near the foundation
• Have any new cracks assessed early rather than waiting for them to worsen

Why an Experienced Concrete Team Matters

With over 15 years of experience working with DFW's challenging soil conditions, our in-house team understands how to properly reinforce and grade concrete work to reduce future cracking risk.

‍