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Drywall Cracks

Drywall cracks can occur due to foundation damage and are typically visible above door frames and window frames. It is critical to note that such cracks are often a sign of significant structural issues in your home’s foundation.

A multiple drywall cracks, indicating the presence of foundation problems that necessitate drywall crack repair in Northern VA

Drywall Crack Repair in Northern Virginia, Shenandoah Valley, North Central Virginia, and West Virginia

Foundations are what support everything in your home: walls, furniture, and people. As a result, damage to your foundation can lead to damage to your entire home. 

 

One of the most visible signs of foundation problems is drywall cracks. These occur when walls shift due to settlement and typically appear above door frames and windows – the weakest sections of the wall.  These can differ in size, shape, and severity, ranging from fine hairline cracks to larger fissures. While some gaps are superficial and result from natural settling, repeated occurrences or widening over time can indicate more serious issues.

 

At LUX Foundation Solution, we’ve encountered and repaired drywall cracks problems numerous times and have the necessary solutions to fix them. Our team can help you protect your home and prevent further damage.

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Do These Drywall Cracks Signs Seem Familiar?

The symptoms

Foundation problems are no minor issues. They can cause significant damage to your home’s structure and even decrease its value. Here are the signs of drywall cracks that you should be on the lookout for:

 

  • Cracks in interior or exterior walls 
  • Cracks in bricks or concrete walls 
  • Gaps around doors or windows 
  • Gaps between walls and ceilings or floors
  • Uneven floors 
  • Doors or windows that stick or don’t close properly 

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s time to take action. Schedule a free estimate with LUX Foundation Solutions today.

An image of deep and wide cracks in an interior wall, clearly indicating significant drywall cracks in Reston, VA

Cracks in interior or exterior walls

An image displaying multiple cracks in concrete walls, serving as a clear sign of damage drywall cracks in Charles Town, WV

Cracks in concrete walls

A gap between the wall and the floor, indicating potential structural concern or sign of drywall cracks in Harpers Ferry, WV

Gaps in doors and walls

A gap between the wall and the floor, indicating potential structural concern or sign of drywall cracks in Harpers Ferry, WV

Gaps between wall and floor

An image showing an uneven floor, which can be a sign of underlying structural issues and drywall cracks in Southbridge, VA

Uneven floor

An image of a door that doesn't close properly, affecting its alignment, a sign of drywall cracks in Berryville, VA

Door don't close

What Causes Drywall Cracks?

Since drywall cracks result from foundation damage, several factors can contribute to the development of these issues. Understanding these causes can help identify and take necessary action. Common causes include:

A newly construct house where signs of poor design and materials are already seen, a sign that poor foundation construction can cause drywall cracks in Warrenton, VA

Poor Construction Materials or Techniques 

Low-quality materials mean that the structure cannot withstand the weight of the home. Likewise, using improper techniques can weaken the foundation and lead to drywall cracks. It is important to note that damage caused by poor workmanship is often identified soon after construction, with effects being visible within the first two years.

A house foundation with a deep, zigzag crack, showing how foundation settlement can cause drywall cracks in Flint Hill, VA

Soil Settlement 

Soil movement around your foundation is the leading cause of foundation issues. Over time, the soil naturally settles and can shift. This movement creates stress on your foundation, causing it to warp, buckle or crack. When cracks in your drywall form due to soil settlement, it’s usually a sign that your foundation is under immense stress.

A drywall with visible signs of moisture and peeling, indicating that water damage can cause drywall cracks in Bristow, VA

Moisture Issues and Water Damage 

When a foundation experiences excessive moisture due to poor drainage, plumbing leaks, or inadequate waterproofing, it can lead to soil expansion and contraction. This movement can exert pressure on it, causing it to shift or settle unevenly. As a result, gaps may appear in the drywall above. 

 

To address this, you should promptly address any water-related issues, such as fixing leaks and ensuring proper drainage around the foundation.

Image of construction work with blasting occur, shows how construction blasting can cause of drywall cracks in Martinsburg, WV

Horizontal Drilling or Blasting

Horizontal drilling or blasting in the vicinity of your home can cause drywall cracks. These activities, such as undertaking home improvement projects like installing gas lines or sewer lines, can cause significant vibrations that can travel through the soil and cause the walls to crack. 

It’s essential for homeowners to be aware of nearby construction activities and monitor their impact on the home’s foundation. Consulting with a structural engineer may be necessary to assess damage and recommend repairs.

Image of multiple deep cracks in the wall, showing how natural shift cracks can causes drywall cracks in Linden, VA

Earthquakes or Natural Shifts in the Earth’s Crust

Natural shifts in the earth’s tectonic plates or earthquakes can cause significant ground movement. When the foundation is subjected to these forces, it may experience stress and movement that result in drywall cracks. 

 

If your home’s location is prone to earthquakes or geological activity, it’s vital to have a seismic retrofitting assessment and implement any necessary reinforcement measures to reduce the risk of issues and protect your home’s structural integrity.

Our Solutions

An illustration of a push pier installed to stabilize the foundation, a solution to address drywall cracks in Alexandria, VA

Push Piers
An image showing a main beam replacement, as a solution to address and repair drywall cracks in White Post, VA

Main beam replacement
A wall stabilizer I-beam installed, a solution to provide structural support and address drywall cracks in Berkeley, WV

Stabilizer posts
Can drywall cracks be an indicator of a more severe underlying issue, such as foundation problems?

Yes, drywall cracks can indicate a more severe underlying issue, such as foundation problems. In fact, it is one of the most common signs. This is because when a foundation settles or shifts, it can also cause the walls to move.

 

One solution is using push piers. Push piers are steel tubes driven deep into the ground to reach the stable soil layer, providing extra support to the foundation and preventing further settlement. The process involves excavating around the foundation, installing the push piers, and backfilling the excavated area.


It is essential to address this as soon as possible to prevent further damage, which can be costly to repair in the long run. Contacting a professional foundation repair company, such as LUX Foundation Solutions, can help identify the underlying issue and provide the best solution for the specific situation.

Should I be concerned if I see multiple cracks appearing in different areas of my drywall?

Yes, you should be concerned if you see multiple gaps appearing in different areas of your drywall. These gaps may be a sign of a foundation issue, and ignoring them can result in costly repairs down the line. One solution to this problem that LUX Foundation Solutions offers is the installation of stabilizer posts.


Stabilizer posts help to lift and stabilize sagging or sinking floors caused by foundation settlement, thereby reducing stress on the walls above and preventing gaps from worsening. The installation process involves excavating a small hole in the ground, inserting a steel or concrete pillar, and then securing it to the floor and beam above.

Does damaged framing in my basement cause cracks in my house's drywall? What should I do to fix it and avoid further damage?

Yes, deteriorated framing in the basement can cause cracks in your house’s drywall. This is because the main beam, located in the basement, supports the weight of the house. If the beams are damaged or weakened, it will cause the floor above to sag, leading to gaps in the drywall. 

 

To fix this issue, a main beam replacement is required. This process involves removing the old, damaged beam and replacing it with a new one. The new beam will be secured in place with steel brackets, ensuring it can support the weight of the house without compromising its structural integrity.

 

To avoid further damage, it is essential to regularly inspect the condition of the main beam and other home structural components. Any signs of deterioration should be addressed immediately to prevent more significant damage down the line.

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Fix Drywall Cracks — Contact LUX Foundation Solutions Today!

Drywall cracks could be indicative of underlying foundation problems. If you’re worried about your home’s stability, contact LUX Foundation Solutions now, your trusted local foundation repair company.

Regardless of how small or large the drywall cracks in your home are, we can help you solve them to protect your home from further damage. Our team of experts offers a wide range of solutions, including foundation repair services, crawl space repair, basement waterproofing, and more.

Take the first step in protecting your home. Contact us today at 540-508-8587 or fill out our online estimate request form to schedule a free, on-site foundation estimate. Get expert advice on effectively addressing the issues. We proudly serve homeowners in Northern Virginia, Shenandoah Valley, North Central Virginia, West Virginia, and surrounding areas.

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FAQ's

What steps should I take if I notice new or worsening cracks in my home's drywall?

If you have noticed new or worsening cracks in your home’s drywall, it is essential to take immediate action. The first step is to determine the underlying cause of the gaps, which could be due to foundation issues, settling, or temperature changes. Contacting a professional foundation repair service will help you accurately diagnose the underlying problem and recommend the best action. 

Promptly addressing gaps in your drywall will prevent further damage to your home and potentially save you from expensive repair costs in the long run.

When should I worry about cracks in drywalls?

Drywall cracks should be taken seriously, no matter how small they appear. Many homeowners make the mistake of ignoring tiny gaps until it’s too late. By the time the gaps get bigger, your home’s foundation and structure can suffer major damage. 

 

When you notice any gaps in your walls, it’s essential to have a professional from the team at LUX Foundation Solutions inspect them to identify the leading cause of the gaps and provide the necessary solutions to ensure the safety and stability of your home. Remember, early intervention can save you a lot of time, money, and headaches in the long term.

Are there any preventive measures I can take to minimize the risk of developing cracks in drywall due to foundation issues?

Yes. There are preventative measures you can take to minimize the risk of developing cracks in drywall due to foundation issues:

 

  1. Ensure that the soil around your home’s foundation is properly graded and sloped away to prevent water accumulation. Regularly inspect and maintain proper drainage systems, such as gutters and downspouts, to redirect water away from the foundation.
  2. Monitor and address any signs of settling, such as uneven floors or sticking doors, to prevent excessive stress on the drywall.
  3. Consider consulting with a professional to assess and address any existing foundation issues before they lead to extensive drywall cracks.

By taking these proactive measures, you can minimize the risk of drywall cracks and ensure the stability and safety of your home.

Should I replace cracked drywall?

If there are cracks in drywall, it doesn’t necessarily mean it needs to be replaced. It depends on the severity and extent of the damage. Minor gaps, such as hairline cracks, can often be repaired using joint compound and proper surface preparation techniques. 

 

However, if the gaps are large, deep, or recurring, replacing the affected sections of drywall may be necessary. It is also essential to consider the underlying cause of the gaps, such as foundation issues or moisture problems, and address them before replacing the drywall to prevent future damage. 

 

It’s essential to consult with an expert foundation repair service to assess the underlying cause of the cracks and determine the best solution.
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