Short answer: Thin, vertical hairline cracks in poured concrete are common and often cosmetic. Cracks that are wider than about 1/4 inch, horizontal, stair-stepped in block, or growing over time, or that come with sticking doors or sloping floors, should be inspected by a pro.
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Cracks that usually need an inspection
- Horizontal cracks in a block or poured wall, or a wall that bows inward.
- Stair-step cracks in block or brick.
- Cracks wider at one end than the other.
- Cracks that leak water after rain.
- Cracks paired with doors that stick or gaps at window frames.
Common repairs
Depending on the cause, a contractor may recommend crack injection (epoxy or polyurethane), wall anchors or bracing for a bowing wall, piers for settlement, or drainage fixes. In Charlottesville, where USDA data shows almost no expansive clay but many older homes, water management is often part of the fix.
Track the crack before the visit
Mark each end of the crack with a pencil and the date, and photograph it next to a ruler. Growth over a few weeks is useful evidence for the inspector.
See local repair costs or the warning signs checklist.
Request your free foundation inspection
Tell us what you are seeing. A local specialist will contact you, usually within one business day. No obligation.
Sources
- USDA soil survey summary for Charlottesville city (foundationsoils.com): https://foundationsoils.com/va/charlottesville-city/
- Virginia Energy, Geology: expansive soils: https://energy.virginia.gov/geology/ExpansiveSoils.shtml