What are horizontal wall cracks and what to do
It can be unsettling when you spot a horizontal crack in a wall. Many homeowners worry that it’s a sign of subsidence or significant foundation damage, and whilst some horizontal wall cracks can signal structural issues, others tend to be harmless.
Horizontal wall cracks run parallel to the ground, typically appearing in plaster, drywall, external walls or brickwork. Whether these types of cracks are cosmetic or structural, depends on where they are located, how wide they are and whether they change over time.
In this guide, we’ll explain what horizontal cracks are, their causes and what action you should take. As specialists in diagnosing ground movement and subsidence repair, Mainmark regularly assesses residential properties affected by cracking and ground movement and provide the most appropriate course of action.
What Are Horizontal Wall Cracks?
In a nutshell, a horizontal crack is a crack that runs from one side to another in parallel with the ground. They often appear in:
Brickwork and masonry
Internal plaster or drywall
Basement or foundation walls
Outside walls
Internal load bearing or partition walls
These cracks are typically found along mortal joints, mid-height brickwork, around windows and doors and internal plasterboard joints.
Although some horizontal cracks are cosmetic, others may highlight more serious issues such as ground movement, soil pressure or subsidence.
What causes horizontal cracks in walls?
There are several reasons as to why horizontal cracking occurs. Understanding the cause can help you determine the level of risk.
Lateral Soil Pressure (Basement Walls)
Horizontal cracks are commonly found in basement walls and are often caused by lateral soil pressure. This is because expanding clay soils, poor drainage, and hydrostatic pressure from groundwater can push against basement walls, resulting in cracks or forcing the wall to bow inwards.
Foundation Settlement
If there is uneven foundation movement, then this can lead to horizontal cracks, especially in brick walls. This can be caused by weak ground conditions, wall tie failure (in cavity walls) or overloading above lintels and openings, which is often the result of a miscalculation of floor or roof loads or bearings.
Thermal Expansion & Material Shrinkage
Continuous temperature changes mean materials naturally expand and contract, causing shrinkage or thermal movement. This often results in minor horizontal cracks in drywall or plaster inside the home and are considered to be a cosmetic rather than a structural issue.
Water-Related Problems
Cracking over time can often be caused by leaking drains, poor surface drainage or consistent damp conditions. This can weaken supporting soils and increase the strain on walls.
Are all cracks serious?
The short answer is no. Not all cracks are dangerous; however, some require immediate attention. Below is a quick guide outlining the general risk indicators for horizontal cracks:
Location | Likely cause | Risk level | Action needed |
|---|---|---|---|
Internal wall | Material/plaster shrinkage | Low | Cracks should be monitored |
Mid-wall | Structural movement | Medium | An inspection is needed |
Basement | Soil pressure | High | Structural assessment required |
If you notice any mid-wall or basement cracks, you can arrange for a subsidence survey. The survey is normally carried out by chartered surveyors, who will look for signs of subsidence and check your house for any other issues.
Horizontal cracks in different parts of the home
Horizontal cracks can be found in various places around the home. Their causes vary depending on their location.
Horizontal cracks in basement walls
Horizontal cracks are often found in basement and foundation walls and are a serious indicator of foundation movement as a result of lateral soil pressure problems with drainage. This can cause the foundation wall to bow inwards.
Horizontal cracks in internal walls
These are typically cosmetic and frequently occur along plasterboard joints. Recurring or widening cracks, however, may indicate movement elsewhere in the property. Thin cracks near ceilings and floors are usually a sign of material shrinkage as they dry out, whereas wider cracks that appear mid-wall may signal underlying structural movement.
Horizontal wall crack around doors and windows
Although these cracks are often the result of minor settling, they can also be an indicator of lintel failure, which requires immediate attention.
Horizontal cracks in outside walls
If these horizontal cracks in brick walls follow mortar lines, then this and can be a sign of foundation movement, wall tie failure, or subsidence.
Can horizontal cracks be repaired?
Yes, however, the type of repair depends on what caused the cracks in the first place.
Cosmetic horizontal wall cracks in plaster can usually be repaired using a filler and then redecorated, providing any movement has been stabilised. However, structural horizontal cracks in brickwork for example, require long-term stabilisation works not just DIY repairs.
There are several solutions available, depending on the severity of the issue. Modern remedies such as resin injection underpinning can strengthen the ground and foundations with minimal disruption. Fixing any underlying structural issues will help prevent cracks from returning.
What do you do if you’ve noticed a horizontal wall crack?
Although it can be unsettling to discover a horizontal crack in your wall, there are steps you can take:
Step 1: Measure the crack
Keep a record of the crack’s width, length and exact location. Take photos and make a note of the date you took them for comparison.
Step 2: Monitor any changes
You should keep an eye on the crack over 4-8 weeks and monitor any changes. If the crack becomes wider or longer, it may indicate active movement.
Step 3: Check for related symptoms
Look for any additional issues, such as damp patches, sticking doors, uneven floors or new cracks framing nearby as they may indicate a serious structural issue.
Step 4: Get a Professional Structural Assessment
If you’re concerned about the crack, then you can arrange for a dedicated subsidence survey to gain peace of mind. The survey will identify the cause and severity of the crack and recommend solutions if remedial works are needed. Remember, an early diagnosis can prevent costly and extensive repairs.
Getting expert advice
Although not all horizontal wall cracks are dangerous, they should not be ignored. It’s important to identify the early warning signs and seek an expert assessment.
Mainmark specialises in diagnosing and remedying ground movement, subsidence and structural cracking. Our expertise ensures effective, long-term solutions for all types of residential properties.
If you have concerns about a horizontal crack in your home, speaking to an expert will save you time, stress and extensive costs.
Mainmark’s specialised in-house solutions
Our dedicated team of experts is committed to understanding your unique needs and objectives, working closely with you to develop and execute.
Get in Touch
Our dedicated team of experts is committed to understanding your unique needs and objectives, working closely with you to develop and execute.
What are horizontal wall cracks and what to do
It can be unsettling when you spot a horizontal crack in a wall. Many homeowners worry that it’s a sign of subsidence or significant foundation damage, and whilst some horizontal wall cracks can signal structural issues, others tend to be harmless.
Horizontal wall cracks run parallel to the ground, typically appearing in plaster, drywall, external walls or brickwork. Whether these types of cracks are cosmetic or structural, depends on where they are located, how wide they are and whether they change over time.
In this guide, we’ll explain what horizontal cracks are, their causes and what action you should take. As specialists in diagnosing ground movement and subsidence repair, Mainmark regularly assesses residential properties affected by cracking and ground movement and provide the most appropriate course of action.
What Are Horizontal Wall Cracks?
In a nutshell, a horizontal crack is a crack that runs from one side to another in parallel with the ground. They often appear in:
Brickwork and masonry
Internal plaster or drywall
Basement or foundation walls
Outside walls
Internal load bearing or partition walls
These cracks are typically found along mortal joints, mid-height brickwork, around windows and doors and internal plasterboard joints.
Although some horizontal cracks are cosmetic, others may highlight more serious issues such as ground movement, soil pressure or subsidence.
What causes horizontal cracks in walls?
There are several reasons as to why horizontal cracking occurs. Understanding the cause can help you determine the level of risk.
Lateral Soil Pressure (Basement Walls)
Horizontal cracks are commonly found in basement walls and are often caused by lateral soil pressure. This is because expanding clay soils, poor drainage, and hydrostatic pressure from groundwater can push against basement walls, resulting in cracks or forcing the wall to bow inwards.
Foundation Settlement
If there is uneven foundation movement, then this can lead to horizontal cracks, especially in brick walls. This can be caused by weak ground conditions, wall tie failure (in cavity walls) or overloading above lintels and openings, which is often the result of a miscalculation of floor or roof loads or bearings.
Thermal Expansion & Material Shrinkage
Continuous temperature changes mean materials naturally expand and contract, causing shrinkage or thermal movement. This often results in minor horizontal cracks in drywall or plaster inside the home and are considered to be a cosmetic rather than a structural issue.
Water-Related Problems
Cracking over time can often be caused by leaking drains, poor surface drainage or consistent damp conditions. This can weaken supporting soils and increase the strain on walls.
Are all cracks serious?
The short answer is no. Not all cracks are dangerous; however, some require immediate attention. Below is a quick guide outlining the general risk indicators for horizontal cracks:
Location | Likely cause | Risk level | Action needed |
|---|---|---|---|
Internal wall | Material/plaster shrinkage | Low | Cracks should be monitored |
Mid-wall | Structural movement | Medium | An inspection is needed |
Basement | Soil pressure | High | Structural assessment required |
If you notice any mid-wall or basement cracks, you can arrange for a subsidence survey. The survey is normally carried out by chartered surveyors, who will look for signs of subsidence and check your house for any other issues.
Horizontal cracks in different parts of the home
Horizontal cracks can be found in various places around the home. Their causes vary depending on their location.
Horizontal cracks in basement walls
Horizontal cracks are often found in basement and foundation walls and are a serious indicator of foundation movement as a result of lateral soil pressure problems with drainage. This can cause the foundation wall to bow inwards.
Horizontal cracks in internal walls
These are typically cosmetic and frequently occur along plasterboard joints. Recurring or widening cracks, however, may indicate movement elsewhere in the property. Thin cracks near ceilings and floors are usually a sign of material shrinkage as they dry out, whereas wider cracks that appear mid-wall may signal underlying structural movement.
Horizontal wall crack around doors and windows
Although these cracks are often the result of minor settling, they can also be an indicator of lintel failure, which requires immediate attention.
Horizontal cracks in outside walls
If these horizontal cracks in brick walls follow mortar lines, then this and can be a sign of foundation movement, wall tie failure, or subsidence.
Can horizontal cracks be repaired?
Yes, however, the type of repair depends on what caused the cracks in the first place.
Cosmetic horizontal wall cracks in plaster can usually be repaired using a filler and then redecorated, providing any movement has been stabilised. However, structural horizontal cracks in brickwork for example, require long-term stabilisation works not just DIY repairs.
There are several solutions available, depending on the severity of the issue. Modern remedies such as resin injection underpinning can strengthen the ground and foundations with minimal disruption. Fixing any underlying structural issues will help prevent cracks from returning.
What do you do if you’ve noticed a horizontal wall crack?
Although it can be unsettling to discover a horizontal crack in your wall, there are steps you can take:
Step 1: Measure the crack
Keep a record of the crack’s width, length and exact location. Take photos and make a note of the date you took them for comparison.
Step 2: Monitor any changes
You should keep an eye on the crack over 4-8 weeks and monitor any changes. If the crack becomes wider or longer, it may indicate active movement.
Step 3: Check for related symptoms
Look for any additional issues, such as damp patches, sticking doors, uneven floors or new cracks framing nearby as they may indicate a serious structural issue.
Step 4: Get a Professional Structural Assessment
If you’re concerned about the crack, then you can arrange for a dedicated subsidence survey to gain peace of mind. The survey will identify the cause and severity of the crack and recommend solutions if remedial works are needed. Remember, an early diagnosis can prevent costly and extensive repairs.
Getting expert advice
Although not all horizontal wall cracks are dangerous, they should not be ignored. It’s important to identify the early warning signs and seek an expert assessment.
Mainmark specialises in diagnosing and remedying ground movement, subsidence and structural cracking. Our expertise ensures effective, long-term solutions for all types of residential properties.
If you have concerns about a horizontal crack in your home, speaking to an expert will save you time, stress and extensive costs.
Mainmark’s specialised in-house solutions
Our dedicated team of experts is committed to understanding your unique needs and objectives, working closely with you to develop and execute.
Get in Touch
Our dedicated team of experts is committed to understanding your unique needs and objectives, working closely with you to develop and execute.
What are horizontal wall cracks and what to do
It can be unsettling when you spot a horizontal crack in a wall. Many homeowners worry that it’s a sign of subsidence or significant foundation damage, and whilst some horizontal wall cracks can signal structural issues, others tend to be harmless.
Horizontal wall cracks run parallel to the ground, typically appearing in plaster, drywall, external walls or brickwork. Whether these types of cracks are cosmetic or structural, depends on where they are located, how wide they are and whether they change over time.
In this guide, we’ll explain what horizontal cracks are, their causes and what action you should take. As specialists in diagnosing ground movement and subsidence repair, Mainmark regularly assesses residential properties affected by cracking and ground movement and provide the most appropriate course of action.
What Are Horizontal Wall Cracks?
In a nutshell, a horizontal crack is a crack that runs from one side to another in parallel with the ground. They often appear in:
Brickwork and masonry
Internal plaster or drywall
Basement or foundation walls
Outside walls
Internal load bearing or partition walls
These cracks are typically found along mortal joints, mid-height brickwork, around windows and doors and internal plasterboard joints.
Although some horizontal cracks are cosmetic, others may highlight more serious issues such as ground movement, soil pressure or subsidence.
What causes horizontal cracks in walls?
There are several reasons as to why horizontal cracking occurs. Understanding the cause can help you determine the level of risk.
Lateral Soil Pressure (Basement Walls)
Horizontal cracks are commonly found in basement walls and are often caused by lateral soil pressure. This is because expanding clay soils, poor drainage, and hydrostatic pressure from groundwater can push against basement walls, resulting in cracks or forcing the wall to bow inwards.
Foundation Settlement
If there is uneven foundation movement, then this can lead to horizontal cracks, especially in brick walls. This can be caused by weak ground conditions, wall tie failure (in cavity walls) or overloading above lintels and openings, which is often the result of a miscalculation of floor or roof loads or bearings.
Thermal Expansion & Material Shrinkage
Continuous temperature changes mean materials naturally expand and contract, causing shrinkage or thermal movement. This often results in minor horizontal cracks in drywall or plaster inside the home and are considered to be a cosmetic rather than a structural issue.
Water-Related Problems
Cracking over time can often be caused by leaking drains, poor surface drainage or consistent damp conditions. This can weaken supporting soils and increase the strain on walls.
Are all cracks serious?
The short answer is no. Not all cracks are dangerous; however, some require immediate attention. Below is a quick guide outlining the general risk indicators for horizontal cracks:
Location | Likely cause | Risk level | Action needed |
|---|---|---|---|
Internal wall | Material/plaster shrinkage | Low | Cracks should be monitored |
Mid-wall | Structural movement | Medium | An inspection is needed |
Basement | Soil pressure | High | Structural assessment required |
If you notice any mid-wall or basement cracks, you can arrange for a subsidence survey. The survey is normally carried out by chartered surveyors, who will look for signs of subsidence and check your house for any other issues.
Horizontal cracks in different parts of the home
Horizontal cracks can be found in various places around the home. Their causes vary depending on their location.
Horizontal cracks in basement walls
Horizontal cracks are often found in basement and foundation walls and are a serious indicator of foundation movement as a result of lateral soil pressure problems with drainage. This can cause the foundation wall to bow inwards.
Horizontal cracks in internal walls
These are typically cosmetic and frequently occur along plasterboard joints. Recurring or widening cracks, however, may indicate movement elsewhere in the property. Thin cracks near ceilings and floors are usually a sign of material shrinkage as they dry out, whereas wider cracks that appear mid-wall may signal underlying structural movement.
Horizontal wall crack around doors and windows
Although these cracks are often the result of minor settling, they can also be an indicator of lintel failure, which requires immediate attention.
Horizontal cracks in outside walls
If these horizontal cracks in brick walls follow mortar lines, then this and can be a sign of foundation movement, wall tie failure, or subsidence.
Can horizontal cracks be repaired?
Yes, however, the type of repair depends on what caused the cracks in the first place.
Cosmetic horizontal wall cracks in plaster can usually be repaired using a filler and then redecorated, providing any movement has been stabilised. However, structural horizontal cracks in brickwork for example, require long-term stabilisation works not just DIY repairs.
There are several solutions available, depending on the severity of the issue. Modern remedies such as resin injection underpinning can strengthen the ground and foundations with minimal disruption. Fixing any underlying structural issues will help prevent cracks from returning.
What do you do if you’ve noticed a horizontal wall crack?
Although it can be unsettling to discover a horizontal crack in your wall, there are steps you can take:
Step 1: Measure the crack
Keep a record of the crack’s width, length and exact location. Take photos and make a note of the date you took them for comparison.
Step 2: Monitor any changes
You should keep an eye on the crack over 4-8 weeks and monitor any changes. If the crack becomes wider or longer, it may indicate active movement.
Step 3: Check for related symptoms
Look for any additional issues, such as damp patches, sticking doors, uneven floors or new cracks framing nearby as they may indicate a serious structural issue.
Step 4: Get a Professional Structural Assessment
If you’re concerned about the crack, then you can arrange for a dedicated subsidence survey to gain peace of mind. The survey will identify the cause and severity of the crack and recommend solutions if remedial works are needed. Remember, an early diagnosis can prevent costly and extensive repairs.
Getting expert advice
Although not all horizontal wall cracks are dangerous, they should not be ignored. It’s important to identify the early warning signs and seek an expert assessment.
Mainmark specialises in diagnosing and remedying ground movement, subsidence and structural cracking. Our expertise ensures effective, long-term solutions for all types of residential properties.
If you have concerns about a horizontal crack in your home, speaking to an expert will save you time, stress and extensive costs.
Mainmark’s specialised in-house solutions
Our dedicated team of experts is committed to understanding your unique needs and objectives, working closely with you to develop and execute.
Get in Touch
Our dedicated team of experts is committed to understanding your unique needs and objectives, working closely with you to develop and execute.