Foundation cracks typically develop from several factors including soil movement from freeze-thaw cycles, hydrostatic pressure from water-saturated soil, natural settling of your home's foundation, and thermal expansion and contraction of concrete. In the Midwest, clay soils that expand and contract with temperature changes create additional stress on foundation walls. Poor drainage, plumbing leaks, and extreme weather conditions can also contribute to crack formation, which is why professional evaluation is essential to address both the crack and its underlying cause.