Does cracked tile mean foundation problems?

Do you see cracks in your tile?

First of all, don’t panic, as this isn’t always a cause for concern regarding foundation problems. There are lots of ways tiles in residential homes get damaged. Accidents happen. Grout gets old. A few tiles may have undiagnosed defects—these types of things.

In this article, let’s take a look at some of the basic facts to keep in mind when you begin seeing damaged tile.

First, examine the tiles. Get down and look at the cracks wherever they are and see if it’s superficial damage or worse.

How big are the cracks?
How deep?
How wide?
What kind of pattern does the crack have?

If you feel the damage may call for Foundation Repair, see if it’s possible to look at the structure’s subfloor and the exposed sections of the foundation. The information you gather on your own will help foundation professionals get to the bottom of things when they arrive.

Let’s Talk Tile Cracks: The Four Primary Kinds To Look For

Isolated Cracks: When there’s only that one single tile that’s got a glaring crack in it, then there’s a 99% chance it happened as a result of an impact. Those common ceramic and porcelain tiles aren’t known for their immense strength. Look at the crack; Does it resemble an impact crack? Is there a web of more minor cracks coming from a center?
Grout Line Cracks: No matter what kind of grout was used to set your tiles, it’s going to shrink and peel away from the tiles over time. Especially if the previous installers didn’t install it properly, it was done hastily, or it’s gone without any maintenance for a good while. If the cracking is indeed in the grout and not in the tiles themselves, there’s likely no reason to worry.
Multiple Tile Cracks: NOW we’re talking about a sign of foundation trouble — cracks that run across several adjacent tiles. How long are the cracks? How many tiles are involved? If the crack runs from wall to wall, then there’s no time to waste; call the professionals! You may want to remove the tiles yourself and see what the subfloor looks like. Hopefully, it’s just improper mortar adhesion, but you’ve got to be safe.
Heaving & Settling: If there are cracks in your tile because they’re heaving upward or settling downward, creating uneven surfaces, this is another potentially harmful sign of foundation problems. Tile flooring can mirror substrate! When a slab foundation is settling too much, you’ll see it in the tile above.

What To Do If There’s A Problem: Call The Professionals

If you inspect the cracking in your tile and determine there’s cause for alarm, call your local foundation experts in the Texas Panhandle and surrounding states (300-mile radius around Amarillo, Texas), the Childers Brothers.

Not only do we have proven and effective methods, but our inspections are first-class. We’ve been in the business close to 50 years, so we know how important these are on every level. Childers techs aren’t going to show up, glance around with a level in their hand for 10-15 minutes, and then ask for money.

We have an extensive 27-point Foundation Inspection process that leaves no stone unturned. When we’re finished, you’ll have all the answers you need, along with expert recommendations to make the best decision possible for your home and investment.

Key Takeaways

In some cases, small hairline cracks in your tile floors are among the initial signs that your foundation is experiencing problems due to either soil or moisture. Keep an eye on them.
Small cracks caused by foundation problems will grow. How much bigger and wider? They start tiny then become 1/16” of an inch wide. Eventually, if left unattended, they’ll expand to 1/8,” ¼,” or larger.
When you see cracked tile, whether small or large, you should seriously consider calling your local Foundation Repair experts and have them conduct a professional inspection.

If you’re in our service area, Contact Childers Brothers. If not, then look for the most reputable contractor possible who you can trust will give you a proper, thorough inspection. Afterward, whether we’re installing helical piers, using soil stabilization methods, or making a pier & beam adjustment, we’ll get you level and safe again. Our experience and reputation are your peace of mind. Thanks for your time today.