Concrete cracks suck. If you’ve noticed a crack in your once-perfect retaining wall, you may be alarmed. You may also be wondering what caused it and if it’s worth repairing. As a homeowner, these are questions that you need answers to—and fast. To help ease your concern, our expert concrete retaining wall specialists have gone through and answered some of your most pressing questions on the subject. Follow along below to learn more!
Is the Crack in Your Concrete Retaining Wall a Problem?
It may come as a surprise to some, but it’s important to understand that all concrete cracks. And, in some cases, cracks in your concrete are inevitable! So, don’t feel too bad if you notice a crack in your handiwork. However, as a homeowner, it is crucial that you’re able to distinguish between a problem crack and a crack that is a result of natural settling.
Cracks that are less than 0.3 millimetres in width are typically deemed acceptable. These cracks usually occur as a product of settlement. With this being said, cracks that are larger than 0.3 millimetres should be inspected further to determine if they pose a risk to the structure.
It is best to contact a professional if you notice any of the following in your retaining wall:
- You notice multiple cracks throughout a section of your retaining wall;
- The crack or cracks are growing in size;
- You notice that there are rust stains on or around the wall (this is an indication of rebar erosion);
- The crack is larger than 0.5 of an inch
Do not take cracks in your retaining wall lightly! If you have any other questions or concerns about cracks in your concrete retaining wall, contact us today. Our retaining wall experts would love to answer any questions that you may have. Be sure to check out our social media for progress photos and past projects. We look forward to working with you in the near future!
