The crack reader.
Choose the wall, the direction, how wide it is and whether it is growing or wet. See a first read on how serious it looks, the likely cause, what is safe to do now and which service fits. Free, with no signup.
- Six crack patterns
- Severity meter
- Free, no signup
Read your crack
A first read from common patterns, not a diagnosis. Cracks are measured over time and in context, and only an inspection can say for sure.
- Likely cause
- What it means
- Safe to do now
- Related service
Saved. It will travel with your estimate request below.
Five things worth doing about any crack.
Mark the ends
Draw a pencil line across each end and write the date.
Measure the width
Use a crack card or ruler, or a gauge, and write it down.
Photograph it
Take a picture with a ruler in the frame every few weeks.
Check the water
Look for stains, white powder or damp spots at the crack.
Fix the drainage
Clean gutters and carry downspouts well away from the wall.
Get your number
A short visit turns all of this into one written price. Ask for my estimate
Learn more about cracks and walls.
Foundation RepairFoundation Crack RepairRead the crack, then fix it.
Foundation RepairBlock Wall and Stair-Step Crack RepairFollow the mortar joints.
Foundation RepairBowing Wall RepairHold the line, then drain it.
Inspections and PlanningFoundation Movement MonitoringMeasure over months, not minutes.
Inspections and PlanningFoundation InspectionsMeasure before you spend.
Inspections and PlanningStructural Engineering ReportsAn independent set of eyes.Crack questions
How do I know if my foundation has a real problem?
Stair-step or widening cracks, horizontal cracks in basement walls, doors and windows that stick, sloping floors, gaps at the trim and damp crawl spaces are all worth an inspection. Thin vertical hairline cracks are often cosmetic. Our Crack Reader gives a first read.
What causes foundation problems in Tennessee?
Clay that swells and shrinks, shallow limestone with karst voids, steep lots and creeping slopes, loess silt in West Tennessee and water that collects near the house are the big ones. Poor drainage makes almost every other cause worse.
Do I need a structural engineer?
Not always. Small, stable cracks rarely need one, while serious or growing movement, real estate disputes, insurance claims and permits often do. We can arrange a licensed engineer and build to the design.
Want a pro to look?
A free estimate measures the crack and the house and tells you whether to monitor, repair or call an engineer.