Cracks in walls: when to worry
Hairline, diagonal or horizontal cracks in block walls: which ones are cosmetic, which point to settlement, and when to get a structural review in Baja.
Most cracks are cosmetic. Some are not.
| Crack | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Fine web pattern in plaster | Plaster shrinkage | Patch and paint |
| Diagonal from a door or window corner | Foundation settlement | Structural review |
| Horizontal in a block wall | Soil pressure or missing bond beam | Structural review |
| Getting wider over time | Active movement | Get it checked soon |
Mark the ends of the crack with a pencil and the date, and photograph it next to a ruler. If it grows in a few weeks, it is not cosmetic.
| Safe to do yourself | Call a professional |
|---|---|
| Patch hairline cracks | Diagonal or horizontal cracks in load-bearing walls |
| Track and photograph | Doors that suddenly stick |
| Seal outside cracks against rain | Before adding a second story |
Planning to build up? See residential construction or our construction service.
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