A frequently asked question by many clients during their home inspection is whether floor pad cracks are a serious problem? In most cases, your home inspector will likely say no. It is not uncommon at all for floor pad cracks to develop, especially in the early years of the homes construction while the concrete is still curing.

Identifying Problematic Floor Pad Cracks During Home Inspections

Small hairline cracks (less than a few millimetres in width) are typical and usually do not present any problems for homeowners. Although some buyers or homeowners may view this opinion with some skepticism, it is normal for cracks to develop and again they generally do not cause any serious problems.

There are some rare cases where floor pad cracks can be problematic and also be an indication of possible underlying problems. Cracks which are more than a few millimetres in thickness with evidence of heaving or differential settlement should be monitored very closely and if movement persists it will likely need to be addressed by a concrete specialist.

How Your Home Inspector Can Help Tackle Floor Pad Crack

Factors such as poor installation of substrate or high water tables can cause problems and lead to excessive cracking and in turn potential structural issues. Sometimes alternative water drainage strategies need to be implemented, or in cases of poor quality construction, entire floors will need to be removed and redone. A general rule of thumb for thickness of a floor pad is at least three inches.
So if you observe some floor pad cracking during your home inspection, it is most likely normal and nothing to get worked up about. Be sure to consult with your home inspector and listen to what they have to say before jumping to conclusions. Of course if your home inspector is competent they will let you know whether or not you really have something to address.

Home Logic Inspections performs thorough and professional home inspections, thermal imaging and drone inspections in Calgary, Airdrie, Okotoks, High River, Strathmore, Bragg Creek and surrounding area.