Basement wall cracks are most commonly cosmetic and some are structural. Typically if it is a vertical crack, it is not a structural concern. Vertical cracks are more prone to leak however and may require digging out on the outside to seal off the leak.
Step cracks are those basement wall cracks that step down and follow the mortar joints of the wall, these are common settling cracks. All homes settle and usually produce some step cracking. The common tolerance or acceptable level of basement wall cracking is up to 1/8". If your step cracks are 1/2" or more you may need what is called underpinning or peiring to support the foundation from underneath and bring it back up to its original position.
Horizontal basement wall cracks are potentially the most concerning and can lead to your basement walls bowing in. If the basement wall has bowed in 4 inches or more it should be replaced. So if you have one or more basement wall cracks that are horizontal and you see bowing, take action as soon as possible to stabilize it preventing any further movement.
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