Crack in load-bearing wall

[Snuffle]

Hello
We have identified a crack in one of our exterior walls (which faces another townhouse) as the wallpaper has split. It extends from the floor into a corner and then 2dm further up to the ceiling. We have widened it a little to see how far it extends and it seems to go at least 5cm into the wall. What do you think about it, what should be done, and how big is the risk that it might worsen?

We have seen it before and it seems like it has gotten larger.

Best regards, Snuffle

 

[Swetrot]

If it's a new house, it's normal for it to shift a little as the wood dries. But if it's an older house, there's a reason to consider why it has started to move. Oftentimes, it's about moisture that has caused supporting parts to rot, and then it starts to move. The chance of it getting worse is nearly 100%. Costs usually rise exponentially with time.

A good tip is to contact a structural engineer or similar professional to take a look at it. If it's a townhouse that is a condominium, you should contact the maintenance manager immediately. And have a chat with the neighbor on the other side of the wall and ask them to check what's happened with their wall.

 

[Snuffle]

Could it have anything to do with the house being used only during the summer before but now also being used in the winter?

As far as I know, the entire foundation and underlying floor are cast in concrete (house from around the 1900s).

 

[Swetrot]

Yes, that can naturally be a reason for it starting to move. The question still remains, however, what it is in the construction that has been damaged so that it moves.