Reading cracks in a driveway
Width, pattern and location say more than length.
In short: Not all cracking means movement. Knowing which kind you are looking at is the point of the inspection.
What we look at
How wide the crack is, whether it runs through or across, whether edges have displaced and whether it repeats in a pattern.
What we recorded
Moderate cracking through driveways, paths and porch areas across several properties, consistent in character.
What it usually means
In external flat work, often shrinkage and a lack of control joints rather than a structural problem in the house.
When it is worth more attention
Where cracking continues into the building, where edges have stepped, or where it lines up with something the ground is doing.
What the report says
The observation, the classification where a standard provides one, and whether an engineer should look further.
Written by the Owner Inspections team from inspections carried out in Pakenham East. Licensed building practitioners, Building & Plumbing Commission registration CDB-U 53425.
