Understanding Concrete Cracks: How to Tell Minor Issues from Major Problems
MARYBOROUGH, AUSTRALIA - February 11, 2026 (NEWMEDIAWIRE) - Discovering cracks in your concrete can be alarming, but not all cracks signal a serious problem. Some cracking is a normal part of concrete's natural settling process, while other cracks indicate structural issues that require immediate attention. Understanding the difference can save you money and stress and help you make informed decisions about your property. This guide breaks down what you need to know about concrete cracking, when to worry, and when to seek professional help.
What Causes Concrete to Crack? Understanding the Basics
Concrete is a durable material, but it's not immune to cracking. Several factors contribute to crack formation, and most are completely natural. As concrete cures, it undergoes a chemical process that can cause slight shrinkage. Temperature changes make concrete expand and contract, creating stress points. The ground beneath your concrete also moves due to moisture levels, soil composition, and natural settling.
Other common causes include improper installation, inadequate curing time, or missing control joints. Heavy loads beyond the concrete's design capacity can also lead to cracking. Understanding these causes helps you determine whether a crack is part of normal wear or something more serious.
Normal Settlement Cracks: What They Look Like and Why They Happen
Settlement cracks are usually thin, often less than 3mm wide, and appear relatively straight or slightly irregular. These hairline cracks typically form within the first year after installation as the concrete adjusts to its environment. You'll commonly find them running through the surface without significant depth.
These cracks occur because concrete can't stretch like rubber. As it settles and adjusts to temperature fluctuations and minor ground movement, small cracks develop to relieve tension. Control joints are deliberately placed in concrete to encourage cracking in specific locations, making it more manageable and less noticeable. If cracks form along these control joints or appear as fine surface lines, they're generally not cause for concern.
Warning Signs of Structural Cracks That Need Professional Attention
Structural cracks are different. These cracks are typically wider than 5mm and may grow over time. If you notice cracks that are uneven on either side, with one section higher than the other, this indicates serious movement. Horizontal cracks, especially in walls or foundations, are more concerning than vertical ones.
Watch for cracks that branch out in multiple directions, forming patterns that look like spider webs or map lines. If water pools near cracks or you see moisture seeping through, the problem may extend beyond the surface. Cracks that appear suddenly or seem to expand rapidly within weeks require immediate assessment. Any cracking accompanied by doors or windows that won't close properly suggests foundation movement that needs professional evaluation.
How to Measure and Monitor Cracks in Your Concrete
Monitoring cracks helps you determine if they're stable or worsening. Start by measuring the crack's width at its widest point using a ruler or crack gauge. Take clear photos with a coin or ruler in the frame for scale reference. Mark the crack's endpoints with a pencil and date your measurements.
Check your cracks every few months, looking for changes in width, length, or depth. Keep a simple log with dates and measurements. If a crack grows more than 1-2mm over several months, it's actively moving. Note any seasonal patterns, as some minor movement with weather changes is normal. This documentation becomes invaluable when consulting with professionals, giving them a clear picture of how the crack has developed over time.
When to Call a Concrete Professional: Making the Right Decision
Some situations warrant immediate professional assessment. If cracks appear suddenly after heavy rain, flooding, or ground disturbance, contact a concrete specialist promptly. Wide cracks exceeding 5mm, especially those that continue growing, need expert evaluation. Any cracking that affects your home's structural elements or foundation requires professional inspection.
Don't wait if you notice multiple cracks appearing simultaneously or if existing cracks branch out into new patterns. Water damage, uneven settling, or cracks accompanied by other structural changes like sticking doors all indicate it's time to call in experts. Even if you're unsure whether a crack is serious, a professional assessment provides peace of mind and prevents small issues from becoming expensive repairs.
Ready to Address Your Concrete Concerns?
Whether you're dealing with minor settlement cracks or suspect something more serious, TrueForm Concreting Maryborough provides expert concrete assessment and repair services throughout the region. Their experienced team can evaluate your concrete, explain what's happening, and recommend the most cost-effective solutions. Don't let concrete cracks keep you worried. Contact TrueForm Concreting Maryborough today for a professional inspection and honest advice about your concrete's condition. Early intervention often means simpler, more affordable repairs.
Contact Information:
TrueForm Concreting Maryborough
88 Richmond St
Maryborough, QLD 4650
Australia
Danishka Rose
+61 7 4120 7422
https://concretingmaryborough.com.au/
