Cracks in Concrete and Masonry: Identifying Causes & Reinforcing the Ground

Cracks in concrete and masonry are frequently a visible sign of ground problems or weaknesses in the building construction. To avoid permanent damage, identifying the root Causes and implementing the right Solutions is essential before reinforcing the ground.

SoilTec is your expert in Switzerland for ground injections using polyurethane resin – the proven method for repairing foundations in cases of settlement-related cracks in concrete and masonry.

Typical Types of Cracks in Concrete and Masonry

Depending on the cause, shape, and pattern, different types of cracks are distinguished. Expert advice and targeted structural measures are necessary for a tailored repair.

1. Settlement cracks
   • Caused by uneven settlement of the ground beneath the foundation.
   • Often stair-step or diagonal patterns in the wall.
   • Crack width increases as settlement progresses.
   • Advice from geotechnical specialists, e.g. SoilTec.
2. Shrinkage cracks
   • Caused by volume changes due to drying shrinkage.
   • Fine, barely visible cracks.
   • Advice from architectural firms or damage experts.
3. Expansion cracks
   • Caused by temperature fluctuations and varying material expansion.
   • Cracks often widen with repeated temperature changes.
   • Advice from architectural firms or damage experts.
4. Drying cracks (crazing)
   • Especially common with fast-drying plaster.
   • Superficial, net-like branching cracks.
   • Advice from architectural firms or damage experts.
5. Load cracks (structural cracks)
   • Caused by excessive mechanical loads such as bending or shear.
   • Typical on load-bearing walls, beams, or ceiling undersides.
   • Critical if crack widths exceed 0.2 mm.
   • Advice from civil engineering firms for structural inspection.
6. Corrosion cracks
   • Caused by rust formation in the reinforcement steel.
   • Often accompanied by spalling concrete surfaces.
   • Advice from concrete repair specialists.

SoilTec PUR ground injection: effective repair for settlement cracks

SoilTec specializes in injecting polyurethane resin into the ground to:

• Improve the ground – enhance, solidify, reinforce, and sustainably stabilize it;
• Targetedly stop uneven settlements;
• Significantly increase the load-bearing capacity of the subsoil.

This innovative method is often the best solution against structural damage caused by ground settlement. Learn more

Conclusion: sustainable protection against cracks thanks to SoilTec ground improvement

Cracks in concrete and masonry often point to settlement problems in the ground. With targeted PUR ground injection from SoilTec, the subsoil can be sustainably improved, preventing further damage. Through a well-founded analysis and professional execution of the PUR injection, the value of your building is preserved in the long term.