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Yes, you can replace a cinder block foundation. If a block foundation is too severely damaged to repair cracks and other issues, replacing the entire foundation is a viable option. The job will require a professional and can take between one to seven days on average to complete, depending on how complex the problem is.

The best foundation repair method will depend on the issue you’re having, but usually, foundation instability is best fixed using supportive piers, like steel piers or helical piers. A professional foundation repair contractor or structural engineer should always decide what the best course of action is, and even then, it’s imperative that you also take measures to treat the underlying issue as well, like soil erosion or oversaturation from runoff.

The best way to determine if ceiling cracks are structural is to hire a ceiling contractor to inspect the cracks and provide a professional opinion. That said, you might be able to make an educated guess based on the size and appearance of the crack. Larger cracks, cracks accompanied by sagging or discoloration, and cracks that travel from the ceiling down the walls are all signs of structural issues.

Most single-story homes don't have foundations strong enough to support a second story, but they can be reinforced for an addition. A structural engineer can assess your foundation and what needs to be done to get it ready. They'll look at any cracks or unevenness in your current foundation and consider any special framing or beams your home needs, especially if it’s in a high-wind or hurricane area.

“To support a second story, many structural engineers will require that you install additional concrete piers in the crawlspace,” says Tschudi. “This involves hand excavating, pouring a large concrete footing—usually with specially coated rebar—and then building concrete piers right up to the girders.”