Cracks worry homeowners more than most things. Some are limited to plaster; others may relate to building movement or water that has weakened soil or structural elements. A crack's seriousness can't be judged from a photo.
Possible causes
Possible causes include:
- Plaster or paint shrinkage
- Thermal expansion and contraction
- Persistent damp or a leak near foundations
- Soil settlement
- Loads or structural alterations
Signs that call for an engineering inspection
Don't delay an inspection if you notice:
- A crack that widens or lengthens over time
- Diagonal cracks at door and window corners
- Doors or windows that suddenly stick
- Cracks in floors or ceilings with sagging
- Cracks near a leaking underground tank
What you can do now
Photograph the crack with a ruler or mark beside it and note the date, then repeat to spot changes. Don't fill or paint it before inspection; that hides useful information. We offer property inspection by engineers.
This is general information, not a diagnosis of your home. To identify the cause, contact us to arrange an assessment.