What should I do about cracks in the foundation/crawl space?
Newer home owner here. I have these cracks on the foundation of the house. Behind them is a crawl space open to dirt. How should I fix or address these? Do they need to be fixed? I try and DIY as much as I can so don't be afraid to suggest a DIY solution. I'm also not above getting professional help, I just haven't had to thus far.
When you bought the home, what did your home inspector say about the foundation cracks?
Call a professional to do a foundation inspection. Your cracks might be nothing or they could be serious. Only a foundation expert can tell you for sure.
No stranger on the internet will have better advice than the honest local expert.
The only advice I can give for household things is that if you want your investment to actually mature properly, you have to listen to the professionals. They'll save you lots of money in the long run.
I wouldn't be overly concerned that the concrete cracked...it does that sometimes. Be concerned if you have heaving/unevenness in the support of your home. As others have said - contact a professional. I would suggest an engineer, not a foundation repair salesman...you get where I'm going with that - the foundation company will always suggest large-scale repairs. An engineer that has no financial dog in the fight will cost a bit but will give an hones opinion.
Relevant post from a couple weeks ago: YSK: Noticing cracks in your drywall or foundation? Beware of foundation companies
I’m not an engineer.
If the crack is moving then you need to address it pronto. If it’s not moving and has been there for years then it’s probably fine.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lime_mortar
If its line mortar replace it with lime mortar otherwise you will have a foundation failure down the line. The lime mortar is a sacrificial material. If you use normal cement, moisture will instead pass through the rocks and eventually those will fail. Old houses are all about sacrificing materials to maintain the bones of the house.