For something that literally supports the structure of your home, the foundation is underappreciated.
The foundation supports the entire housing structure and ensures stability, safety, and longevity. If there are problems with the foundation, you need to address it pronto since delaying the matter could lead to more problems requiring a higher price tag to successfully remedy.
Foundation issues could result from things ranging from wear and tear over time to soil movement. Whatever the cause, it should be fixed immediately since catastrophic problems could be the end result otherwise.
Recognizing the early signs of foundation problems is vital. Keep reading to see seven telltale signs that the foundation of your home may be on shaky ground.
- Cracks in Walls and Ceilings
If you notice cracks on the interior walls or ceilings, take notice since cracks are frightening telltale signs that your home’s foundation might need some attention. Hairline cracks aren’t uncommon in older residences, but big, horizontal, or jagged cracks could be signs of something more serious.
Sometimes cracks appear out of nowhere or widen noticeably over a relatively short period. If you notice these things, contact a business offering foundation repair solutions. The sooner you get professional help, the better your odds of correcting the issue. Waiting too long could lead to a crisis situation.
2. Uneven or Sloping Floors
Do you notice differences in the floors in your home? If they appear sloped or uneven all of a sudden, the reason for this could be foundation movement.
You should also take notice if you notice that you can suddenly push items across, say, the living room floor with almost no effort. That could be because of sloping floors. While the problem could be the subfloor, it could also be the foundation.
3. Sticking Doors and Windows
Another telltale sign that your foundation might be in trouble is if you find that it’s suddenly difficult to open or close your windows or doors. If the foundation shifts, the frames of the windows and doors could become misaligned, which could make them harder to operate.
4. Gaps Around Window Frames or Exterior Doors
Foundation problems often rear their ugly heads as gaps around doors or windows — both on the interior and the exterior.
Exterior doors may no longer sit flush in their frames, and windows may have visible gaps between the frame and the wall. In addition to messing up your energy efficiency and causing higher utility bills, this issue can cause moisture and pest issues.
5. Cracks in Exterior Brick or Concrete
Signs of foundation issues can be found outside as well as inside. If you see cracks in concrete, brickwork, or stone around the foundation, don’t ignore what could be foundation issues. Foundation stress can cause cracks.
6. Bowing or Leaning Wall
It can be disconcerting to see basement walls leaning inward or bulging. You’ll know for certain that such an occurrence isn’t normal by any stretch of anyone’s imagination. Such developments can stem from problems with the foundation of your home. Get help immediately since the collapse of the wall can occur if the inward-leaning or bulging wall isn’t fixed.
7. Water Damage or Moisture in the Basement
Persistent moisture, pooling water, or mold formation in the basement or crawl space may point to drainage problems possibly caused by foundation issues. Inadequate grading or clogged gutters are possible culprits if your foundation issues cause such problems. If ignored for too long, the water and moisture can erode the soil and cause foundation movement.
Foundation issues are serious and can jeopardize safety, home valuation, and structural integrity. If you notice any of these seven signs, act quickly by calling a business specializing in foundation repair solutions. Time is of the essence, so it’s not the sort of thing to put on the back burner.
