Which of the following describes a shrinkage crack?

A shrinkage crack is characterized by being more than 1/8 inch wide and is typically caused by the natural curing process of concrete. As concrete dries, it can lose moisture and shrink, leading to cracks. The specific mention of being more than 1/8 inch wide is significant because shrinkage cracks are common in newly poured concrete and can indicate normal, expected behavior rather than a structural issue.

Understanding this phenomenon is crucial in property and building inspections because it differentiates between normal wear and potential problems that indicate structural failures. Unlike other crack types that might indicate deeper issues, shrinkage cracks are often superficial and do not compromise the integrity of the structure.