What causes structural cracks in commercial buildings?

Structural cracks are a symptom of a problem with the ground underneath a building. Over time, factors can cause the ground to lose its strength and stability, leading to building movement and, eventually, cracks. Common causes include:

Subsurface ground movement

Changes in the moisture content of the ground, especially in clay soils, can cause it to shrink and swell.

Failed drainage

Leaking pipes or poor drainage can wash away soil, creating voids or unstable ground.

Nearby construction

Excavation or heavy vibrations from nearby sites can disturb the ground.

Tree roots

Large trees can extract significant moisture from the soil, causing it to dry and shrink.

Excessive loading

If the load on the ground exceeds its capacity, it can lead to gradual settlement.

Why are cracks a critical concern for commercial properties?

Unlike a residential issue, cracks in a commercial building can bring your entire operation to a halt. The potential for business disruption is the main reason to act quickly. Ignoring structural cracks can lead to:

  • Health and safety risks: Unstable structures can pose a direct threat to staff, customers, and visitors.
  • Operational downtime: Repair work can be noisy and disruptive, impacting your ability to do business leading to operational losses. Traditional solutions like underpinning can take weeks or even months.
  • Devaluation of assets: Structural problems can significantly reduce a property's value.
  • Increased repair costs: The longer you wait, the worse the problem gets, leading to more extensive and costly repairs.
Long eaton library crack

 

Long eaton library crack

Why are cracks a critical concern for commercial properties?

Unlike a residential issue, cracks in a commercial building can bring your entire operation to a halt. The potential for business disruption is the main reason to act quickly. Ignoring structural cracks can lead to:

Health and safety risks

Unstable structures can pose a direct threat to staff, customers, and visitors.

Operational downtime

Repair work can be noisy and disruptive, impacting your ability to do business leading to operational losses. Traditional solutions like underpinning can take weeks or even months.

Devaluation of assets

Structural problems can significantly reduce a property's value.

Increased repair costs

The longer you wait, the worse the problem gets, leading to more extensive and costly repairs.

How does the Geobear solution fix cracks and ground issues?

Since structural cracks are caused by ground failure, the Geobear solution targets the root cause. We use a precise, non-disruptive geopolymer injection method to improve the ground beneath your building. Our solutions are up to 70% faster than traditional methods.

Precision and speed

We inject our geopolymer resin through small-diameter holes, directly into the problem area. The material expands, filling voids and compacting the soil.

Minimal disruption

The entire process requires no excavation and can often be completed in a single day. This means no business downtime, no major mess, and no need to move staff or equipment.

Engineered for your needs

Every project begins with a detailed site investigation and a unique engineered plan. We work with you to find a solution that fits your operational needs, allowing you to stay open while we work.

Proven expertise

Geobear has 40 years of experience and delivered more than 20,000 projects completed in the UK. For examples, see our commercial case studies.

Need help determining if it is subsidence?

Don't let structural cracks threaten your business operations. Our non-disruptive geopolymer solution is up to 70% faster than traditional methods, letting you stay open while we work.

Request a no-obligation site assessment
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