Cracks appear in most buildings over time. The critical question is: which cracks are structural, which are cosmetic, and which need immediate intervention? Buildogram coordinates engineer-led crack inspections that go beyond surface observation — classifying crack type, measuring width, identifying the structural cause, and providing a clear repair pathway.
How We Support You
Systematic Crack Mapping
All visible cracks are documented by location, type, orientation, and width.
Crack Classification
Hairline (<0.2mm), medium (0.2–1mm), wide (>1mm). Types: flexural, shear, settlement, shrinkage, thermal.
Root Cause Analysis
Determine probable causes: settlement, overloading, thermal expansion, shrinkage, corrosion, or design deficiency.
Severity Assessment
Non-structural (cosmetic), Minor structural (monitor), Moderate (repair), Severe (immediate intervention).
Repair Pathway Report
Epoxy injection, polymer mortar, structural jacketing, underpinning, or rebuild recommendation where necessary.
Photographic Documentation
Every crack documented with dated photographs for baseline comparison and ongoing monitoring.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a crack in my building is serious?
Width matters: hairline cracks (<0.2mm) are usually cosmetic. Pattern matters: diagonal cracks at door/window corners often indicate foundation settlement. Location matters: cracks in structural columns or beams are more serious than wall cracks. An engineer inspection gives you a definitive assessment.
What causes cracks in buildings in Chennai?
Common causes: foundation settlement (soft clay soils in flood-prone areas), thermal expansion and contraction (Chennai's extreme heat cycles), poor concrete mix or curing, rebar corrosion causing concrete spalling, overloading above design capacity, and monsoon waterlogging causing soil erosion under foundations.
Can I repair cracks myself?
Superficial hairline cracks can be cosmetically repaired with polymer fillers. However, any crack wider than 1mm, diagonal cracks at structural elements, or cracks that are growing should be professionally assessed before repair. Masking a structural crack without addressing the root cause is dangerous.
What is the difference between a crack inspection and a structural audit?
A crack inspection focuses specifically on crack patterns, classification, and repair recommendations. A full structural audit is a comprehensive assessment covering cracks, corrosion, settlement, slab deflections, and overall structural health.
When should cracks be monitored vs. repaired immediately?
Hairline, non-progressive cracks: monitor with tell-tales for 3–6 months. Cracks that are widening, multiple diagonal cracks at structural elements, or cracks with associated moisture ingress: repair immediately after engineer assessment.
Ready to get started?
Talk to a Buildogram engineer today. No obligation, no sales call — just engineering clarity.