Cracks around windows are a nightmare for many homeowners. Although they may be harmless, they can also be a serious threat to your home. The insulation and solidity of the latter are put to the test by the cracks running along the walls and around the windows.
Even if the cracks around the windows are not always among the most impressive, they should not leave you indifferent.
In this article, the professionals at Fissure Expert explain what causes them to appear, as well as the different solutions to solve the problem quickly!
What causes cracks to appear around windows?
The appearance of cracks is often due to the fact that windows are openings that are weak points in the structure of a building.
There are generally two main causes for a crack around a window:
Shrinkage cracks
Shrinkage cracks only appear on the most recent constructions. This is because freshly laid concrete tends to lose its volume in the months following the end of construction. This retraction causes the appearance of fine cracks around the windows , which are areas supporting the weight of the structure.
Differential settlements
If you observe the appearance of a crack from the edge of your windows to your foundation, it is very likely that you will find yourself facing a case of differential settlement.
These cracks appear in particular when foundations are not adapted to the type of soil that supports the construction. They are particularly common in semi-basements, where windows weaken the foundation and cause cracks that can create significant water infiltration in the basement.
How do you fix cracks around your windows?
It is imperative to react quickly to repair the cracks that form around the windows of your home, otherwise your entire construction will be weakened.
In order to fill these gaps, two solutions are frequently proposed:
Flexible polyurethane
This first method is very effective in repairing the longest cracks. It consists of drilling small holes at an angle along them until they reach the middle of the crevasse. Then, after the openings have been thoroughly cleaned, the surface is sealed before the flexible polyurethane is injected from the bottom to the top, using the holes as access routes.
The waterproof membrane
After a thorough cleaning of the crack, it is sealed with polymer sealant. It is then necessary to apply a primer to allow the waterproofing membrane to adhere properly. It is then supplemented by an elastomeric membrane sealed with special bitumen.
We remind you that these different products must be handled with care, and that it is preferable to call on an expert in order to guarantee the cleanliness and effectiveness of the repair work that will restore your windows to durability and waterproofing.
Once repaired, how can we prevent this problem from happening again?
Window corner cracks have very little chance of reappearing when repaired in the best possible way.
However, it is necessary to schedule an in-depth inspection of your home, especially its foundation. If your previous cracks were caused by differential settlement, the building analysis should be done quickly to cut short the appearance of additional cracks.
To do this, we advise you to contact a professional: only he will be able to identify the cause and the exact origin of these problems and he will advise you on the procedure to follow in order to eliminate them permanently.
To conclude…
You now have all the keys to know how to react when cracks appear around your windows.
If you find yourself facing a problem of this kind, do not hesitate to ask for the assistance of a professional who will inspect the cracked foundations.
Get a free quote and professional advice today that can save you time, money, and worry!
Need a Crack Repair Expert?
If you notice cracks on your foundation, it is important to act quickly. Fissure Expert offers professional foundation crack injection services throughout Quebec. Call a certified foundation crack contractor for a free estimate. We serve Laval, Chicoutimi, Trois-Rivières and many other cities.