Cracks are one of the most common causes of concern for homeowners.
The immediate assumption is often subsidence, but cracking can arise for many different reasons.
What can cause cracking?
Possible causes include:
- Normal thermal or moisture-related movement.
- Shrinkage.
- Minor settlement.
- Defective construction.
- Movement around openings.
- Differential movement between materials.
- Water-related deterioration.
- Structural movement.
The appearance and location of cracking can provide useful clues, but photographs alone will not always establish the cause.
Does the size of the crack tell you everything?
No.
A large crack can be significant, but a relatively narrow crack can also warrant further investigation depending on its location, pattern and surrounding defects.
The surveyor should consider the building as a whole rather than assessing the crack in isolation.
Should I get a structural engineer?
That depends on the circumstances.
A building surveyor can undertake an initial assessment and identify whether further specialist investigation appears appropriate.
Where structural adequacy or engineering calculations are required, referral to a suitably qualified structural engineer may be appropriate.
What if the cracking has been there for years?
Historic cracking does not automatically mean that it is harmless.
The available evidence may help establish whether the defect appears longstanding, stable or potentially progressive.
Previous photographs, repair records and monitoring information can therefore be useful.
Stokemont’s advice
Do not diagnose subsidence simply because you have found a crack.
Where cracking is causing concern, a focused defect inspection can help establish the apparent cause and whether further investigation is warranted.
