Homeownership comes with its fair share of joys and anxieties. One of the anxieties that can plague homeowners is the fear of subsidence. Subsidence is the gradual sinking of a building's foundations, which can cause cracks in walls, floors, and ceilings. While normal settling is a natural process that most homes experience, subsidence can be a severe problem, leading to structural damage.

In this blog post, we will discuss the difference between subsidence cracks and normal settling cracks. We will provide you with the information you need to identify potential problems in your home and take the necessary steps to address them.

What is Subsidence?

Subsidence occurs when the ground beneath a building loses its stability and begins to sink. This can be caused by several factors, including:

• Mining: Mining activity can remove large amounts of soil from underground, destabilizing the ground above.
• Drying out of clay soil: Clay soil shrinks and cracks as it dries out. This can cause the foundations of a building to settle unevenly, leading to subsidence.
• Leaking drains: Leaking drains can wash away soil from around the foundations of a building, which can also lead to subsidence.
• Tree roots: The roots of large trees can grow into and undermine foundations, causing subsidence.

What is Normal Settling?

Normal settling is a natural process that occurs in all buildings. As a building settles into the ground, it may stress the foundations, which can cause minor cracks in the walls, floors, and ceilings. These cracks are usually hairline thin and stable, and they do not pose a severe threat to the structural integrity of the building.

Signs of Subsidence Cracks

Here are some of the signs that may indicate that you have subsidence cracks rather than normal settling cracks:

• The cracks are more comprehensive than 3mm (1/8 inch). Normal settling cracks are usually hairline thin, while subsidence cracks can be much broader.
• The cracks are diagonal: Subsidence cracks often appear in a diagonal pattern, whereas normal settling cracks are usually horizontal or vertical.
• The cracks are growing: If you notice that the cracks in your walls, floors, or ceilings are getting more expensive over time, this is a vital sign of subsidence.
• Doors and windows are sticking: If you notice that your doors and windows are sticking or challenging to open or close, this could be a sign that the foundations of your home are subsiding.
• Uneven floors: If you notice that the floors in your home are becoming uneven, this could be a sign of subsidence.

Signs of Normal Settling Cracks

Here are some of the signs that may indicate that you have normal settling cracks rather than subsidence cracks:

• The cracks are hairline thin: Normal settling cracks are usually very thin, often less than 1mm (1/32 inch) wide.
• The cracks are horizontal or vertical: Normal settling cracks typically run in a horizontal or vertical direction.
• The cracks are stable: If the cracks in your walls, floors, or ceilings have not changed in size or appearance over time, they are likely to be normal settling cracks.
• The cracks are located around window and door openings: Cracks that appear around window and door openings are often caused by the natural expansion and contraction of the building materials.

What to Do If You Think You Have Subsidence Cracks

If you have subsidence cracks in your home, it is essential to take action immediately. Here are the steps you should take:

• Contact a qualified surveyor: A qualified surveyor will be able to inspect your home and determine whether the cracks are caused by subsidence or normal settling.
• Inform your building insurance provider: If your surveyor confirms that you have subsidence, inform your building insurance provider as soon as possible.
• Get quotes for repairs: If your home has subsidence, you must get quotes from qualified builders.

How to Prevent Subsidence

There are several things you can do to help prevent signs of subsidence uk :

• Waterproofing: Make sure that your gutters and drains are in good working order and channel water away from your home's foundations.
• Planting trees: Avoid planting large trees too close to your home, as the roots can damage the foundations.
• Leaking pipes: Fix any

Deeper Dive into Crack Characteristics

While the width and direction of cracks offer key clues, a closer inspection can reveal additional details:

• Stair-step Cracks: These jagged cracks resemble stairs and often appear above doorways or windows. They're a strong indicator of subsidence, suggesting the building is pulling away from itself.
• Location: Cracks in specific areas, like extensions or bay windows, might point to localized movement due to construction differences or inadequate support.

Beyond the Walls: Signs You Shouldn't Ignore

Remember, subsidence isn't limited to cracks. Here are some additional warning signs:

• Gaps Around Fixtures: Check for widening gaps around built-in fixtures like bathtubs, sinks, and fireplaces. Subsidence can cause these gaps to appear or widen.
• Tilting Chimneys: A leaning chimney can be a severe sign of subsidence, particularly if it worsens over time.
• Cracked Floor Tiles: While cracked floor tiles have other causes, extensive cracking, particularly in a diagonal pattern, could indicate subsidence.
• Detached Garden Features: Pay attention to patios, driveways, or paths that seem to be pulling away from your house. This detachment suggests movement in the underlying soil.

Importance of Dilapidation Surveys

A dilapidation surveys is highly recommended if you're purchasing a new property. This survey identifies any existing cracks or structural issues before you buy. It can be a valuable negotiation tool and provide a future reference baseline.

Seeking Professional Help

Don't attempt to diagnose subsidence yourself. Here's when to seek professional help:

• When in Doubt: If you need clarification on whether a crack results from settling or subsidence, avoid caution and consult a qualified surveyor.
• Cracks Worsen: If existing cracks widen or new ones appear, particularly with additional warning signs mentioned earlier, contact a surveyor immediately.
• Planning Major Renovation: A pre-construction survey is crucial to identify potential issues if you're planning significant renovations that could impact the foundation.

Working with a Surveyor

A qualified surveyor with expertise in subsidence will conduct a thorough inspection of your property. This may include:

• Visual Inspection: The surveyor will meticulously examine cracks, doorways, windows, and other potential indicators.
• Level Monitoring: Devices might be installed to monitor any movement in the foundations over time.
• Ground Investigation: In some cases, a more in-depth investigation of the soil conditions may be necessary.

The Road to Repair

If the surveyor confirms subsidence, they will recommend a course of action which might involve:

• Underpinning: This process strengthens the foundations by adding additional support beneath the existing ones.
• Chemical Injection: In some cases, a special resin can be injected into the ground to stabilize the soil.
• Monitoring and Maintenance: Even after repairs, ongoing monitoring of the affected area and preventative measures like proper drainage become crucial.

Conclusion

Peace of mind regarding your home's structural integrity is priceless. While normal settling cracks are common, understanding the critical differences between settling and subsidence empowers you to take action if needed. By being observant and seeking professional help when necessary, you can protect your investment and ensure the long-term safety of your home.

Remember, this blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as a substitute for professional advice. If you suspect subsidence in your home, don't hesitate to contact a qualified surveyor for a thorough inspection.