Cracks in walls, sloping floors or doors that suddenly won’t close can be alarming for any homeowner. Unfortunately, these signs often trigger a flood of misinformation about what’s really happening beneath a house—and whether it spells disaster. When it comes to structural movement, reblocking is one of the most misunderstood solutions, surrounded by persistent myths that can lead to poor decisions or unnecessary stress.
Let’s unpack the most common myths about house movement and reblocking, and replace them with clear, practical facts—so you can make informed choices with confidence.
Myth 1: Any House Movement Means the House Is Unsafe
One of the biggest misconceptions is that all house movement is dangerous. In reality, some degree of movement is normal, especially in older Australian homes built on reactive clay soils.
Seasonal changes—like prolonged dry spells followed by heavy rain—can cause soil to expand and contract. This often leads to minor shifts that don’t compromise structural integrity. Reblocking is typically recommended only when movement is ongoing, uneven, or causing functional issues, not for every crack or creak.
Myth 2: Reblocking Is Only Needed for Very Old Homes
While reblocking is common in older timber homes, it’s not exclusive to them. Even newer houses can experience foundation issues due to:
- Poor original soil preparation
- Inadequate drainage
- Changes to surrounding ground levels
- Tree root interference
Age alone doesn’t determine whether a house needs reblocking—ground conditions and foundation performance do.
Myth 3: Cracks Automatically Mean Reblocking Is Required
Cracks are often the first thing homeowners notice, but not all cracks indicate foundation failure. Hairline cracks in plaster or brickwork can result from normal settling, temperature changes, or even renovations. Reblocking is usually considered only when cracks are:
- Growing over time
- Wider than a few millimetres
- Accompanied by sloping floors or misaligned doors and windows
A proper assessment is essential before jumping to conclusions.
Myth 4: Reblocking Is Just a Cosmetic Fix
This myth couldn’t be further from the truth. Reblocking addresses the root cause of structural movement by restoring level support beneath the house. While it can improve visible issues like cracks or uneven floors, its primary purpose is to stabilise the structure—not just make it look better. In fact, ignoring the need for reblocking can allow movement to worsen, leading to more extensive and expensive repairs down the track.
Myth 5: Once a House Is Reblocked, It Will Never Move Again
Reblocking significantly improves stability, but it doesn’t make a house immune to all future movement. Soil conditions, drainage changes, and environmental factors still play a role. That said, a properly reblocked house is far better equipped to handle normal ground movement, especially when combined with good drainage and ongoing maintenance.
Myth 6: Reblocking Takes Months and Disrupts Daily Life
Many homeowners imagine reblocking as a long, invasive process. In reality, most residential reblocking projects are completed within days, not months. While there may be some short-term disruption, experienced professionals work methodically to minimise impact, allowing occupants to remain informed and comfortable throughout the process.
Myth 7: House Movement Always Lowers Property Value
Structural issues can affect property value—but addressed issues are far less concerning than ignored ones. A documented reblocking job often reassures buyers, showing that the home has been professionally stabilised and maintained. In many cases, reblocking can actually protect or improve a property’s long-term value by preventing further deterioration.
Understanding the Reality of Reblocking and House Movement
House movement is not always a crisis, but it should never be ignored either. The key is understanding the difference between normal settling and structural problems that require intervention. When done at the right time and for the right reasons, reblocking is a proactive solution that restores stability and peace of mind. If you’re noticing persistent movement or structural changes, learning more about reblocking and how it works can help you take the next step with clarity—rather than fear.
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