What is a concrete crack?
A concrete crack is a fissure in the foundation of a building, or any other structure made from concrete that supports the weight of a building.
Types of fissures
To ensure the best possible solution to a foundation problem, it is essential to first determine the nature of the fissure before starting the repairs.
Passive fissure
This type of crack is generally caused by the shrinkage of concrete (drying), premature backfilling in new constructions or unexpected shifts in clay-rich soils. They are so called because they tend to stabilize within one or two years following their appearance. However, it is still recommended to take preventive measures as soon as they are detected to prevent further damage to the building down the line.
Active fissure
Active fissures do not stabilize over the years and tend to cause important damage if they are not addressed quickly. They can be caused by malfunctioning drainage systems, important shifts in the soil, pyrite contimation or extended periods of freezing and thawing. These cracks must be repaired without delay and often require steel anchors that will solidify the foundation installation.
How to inspect a fissure?
Before starting any repair work, it is recommended that the owner begin with a visual inspection of the foundation in order to identify any cracks, especially during periods with important seasonal changes. To ascertain a type of fissure, it must be determined if the crack keeps on widening. Different methods are used to track crack growth, including timestamped verifications and measurements of the elongation and expansion of the fissure.
The FABexcavation solution
Repair methods vary according to the types of foundation problems they address. The best way to permanently repair a crack is still through an exterior repair, even if this requires some excavation. This process triples the protection given to the building and stops water from seeping into the foundation. Repair cracks from inside can be considered in some cases, but remains a temporary solution to a chronic problem. After carefully evaluating the fissure in a building, our committed, cautious team will determine the best possible solution for any given problem.
