Horizontal cracks in foundation walls are usually caused by all of the following EXCEPT?

Horizontal cracks in foundation walls typically occur due to various external forces acting on the structure. Soil pressure, which can build up as soil shifts or expands due to moisture changes, is a common cause of these cracks. Improper backfilling can also lead to issues, as uneven or excessive load from improperly placed soil around a foundation may exert lateral pressure on the walls, resulting in horizontal cracking. Hydrostatic pressure occurs when water accumulates around the foundation, creating additional force on the walls and causing cracking as well.

Sinking footings tend to lead to vertical cracks or settlement issues rather than horizontal cracking. This scenario generally results from structural problems or inadequate support at the base of the foundation. Since horizontal cracks are specifically linked to lateral forces and pressures, sinking footings is the exception in this context.