Preventing cracks in buildings - By Planwize Constructions - Blog

preventing cracks in buildings starts right from the design stage and continues through construction and maintenance. Here’s a full guide By Planwize Constructions.

🏗️ 1. Design Stage – Structural Planning     

Proper Structural Design:

  • Ensure beams, columns, and slabs are designed correctly according to load calculations and IS codes (like IS 456:2000).

  • Provide Expansion & Control Joints:
    Long walls or slabs need expansion joints to allow for temperature or shrinkage movements.

  • Uniform Load Distribution:
    Avoid sudden load variations or uneven                                                                                              settlement  of foundations.


   🧱 2. Foundation Stage 


  • Soil Testing:
    Do a soil bearing capacity test and identify soil type (clay, sandy, etc.).
    Weak or expansive soil causes differential settlement → cracks.

  • Proper Compaction:
    Ensure soil beneath the foundation is well-compacted.

  • Controlled Water Table:
    Avoid water accumulation near the foundation by providing proper drainage 




🧰 3. Construction Stage 

  • Use Good-Quality Materials:
    Use graded aggregates, fresh cement, clean sand, and potable water.

  • Maintain Correct Mix Ratio:
    Follow proper concrete mix (e.g., M20 = 1:1.5:3). Avoid over-sanded or watery mix.

  • Curing:
    Cure concrete for at least 7–14 days. Poor curing is one of the main reasons for cracks.

  • Avoid Rapid Drying:Protect fresh concrete/plaster from sun or wind. 

  • Reinforcement Placement: Provide adequate steel cover and avoid corrosion.

🧱 4. Plastering and Finishing 

 

  • Apply Plaster After Proper Curing of Brickwork:
    Wait at least 7–10 days after masonry before plastering.

  • Use Fiber Mesh or Chicken Mesh:
    At junctions (like RCC beam–brick wall) to prevent hairline cracks.

  • Avoid Thick Layers:
    Apply plaster in thin, even coats.

🌧️ 5. Post-Construction & Maintenance



  • Waterproofing:
    Roof, terrace, and bathroom waterproofing prevent seepage cracks.

  • Check for Leakages:
    Fix plumbing or roof leaks immediately.

  • Control Moisture:
    Ensure good drainage around the building.

  • Periodic Inspection:
    Look for early signs of cracks and repair them using suitable materials (like polymer-modified mortar or epoxy injection).

⚠️ 6. Common Crack Types & Causes

Crack TypeLikely Cause
Vertical wall cracksFoundation settlement
Diagonal cracksUneven settlement or thermal movement
Hairline plaster cracksShrinkage or poor curing
Ceiling corner cracksDifferential movement between slab & wall

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