Foundation cracks can be a result of soil settlement or hydrostatic pressure. Soil settlement is typically situated in soils which have high clay contents. Clay soil shifts and moves about often, especially when it’s infiltrated with moisture. This creates voids between the soil and the base of the foundation. The foundation isn’t able to support all the weight on its own without anything underneath it.

Hydrostatic pressure is the pressure caused by soil moisture pressing against the foundation. Without proper yard drainage systems, pressure is continuously placed on the foundation, causing it to eventually crack.