Cracking in new construction?

[traveler]

When is cracking in new construction an issue?

We have added on to your house and have lots of hairline cracks. I am used to a very different style of building (frame and drywall and insulation) so have no idea if this is an issue of build quality or just settling. The new portion of the house has the cracks, the older portion does not. What do I need to look for? What should send up signals of alarm?

Regardless, I am calling the builder to come fix the cracks. I would just like to have a bit of knowledge before I do.

Thanks in advance.

[EMM]

It is a question of degrees, all new properties settle, the ground in carvoeiro is not the most stable, we do get regular earth tremors and small quakes.
Extreme temp variations and the ground drying out after the winter rains all contribute to this.

I would monitor the cracks to see it they get bigger and if they are just in the outer skin or go deeper into the structural part of the building.

[ANDY]

I have built 2 villas in the last 5 years and both had some minor hairline cracks in some places, as long as they are hairline and not more then that, this is quet normal just call your builder back in to cover over and re paint, and put your foot down if he just wants to repair the cracks and not repaint he has to leave as it was as it was on compliation. Under the builders qarentee ( 5 years on new builds).
Hope this helps

[traveler]

Thanks all.

I do have concern about one as it appears to go all the way through. Otherwise, they are pretty hairline though quite unattractive.

[matoserrao99]

Hairline cracks are normal in virtually all plaster/ render finish new builds and can continue appearing for several years, especially here with the heat range, tremors etc, nothing to worry about.
Easy way to check if more damage has been done is to slap the wall where the crack is with the palm of your hand, then slap 1 foot either side.
they should all sound solid, if the crack sounds hollow then the block behind it has split.
Unless of course you've finished with UK style plasterboard in which case it all sounds hollow
99% of the time its a smidge of filler, worked into the crack,leave it to dry, rub over with fine sandpaper, lick of paint and bobs your uncle.

Most good builders would have told you they would come back and check in 6-12 months without even being asked

Good Luck