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Warning Signs of Foundation Problems You Shouldn’t Ignore
Sometimes, the damage runs so deep that patching it up won’t be enough. Whether it’s years of neglect, extreme weather, or poor construction, there comes a point when your foundation may be too far gone. The trouble is that most homeowners don’t know what to look for until it’s too late. In this article, we’ll break down the key signs that your foundation may be beyond repair and what your next steps should be if you spot them.
How to Spot Foundation Problems on Your Own?
- While hiring a foundation inspector is the most reliable way to assess your foundation, it might not always be necessary right away. You can perform a basic check yourself to see if there are any signs that something is wrong.
If you spot anything unusual, then you can bring in a professional to take a closer look. This way, you avoid the cost of an inspection unless it’s really needed. For homes with concrete slab foundations, here are steps you can take to check for issues:
Inspect the Exterior Walls
- Start by walking around the outside of your home. Stand in a corner and look along the wall. The walls should be straight, both vertically and horizontally. Use a level, if necessary, to check for leaning or bulging. If something doesn’t look right, it might be time to call in an expert.
Large Cracks in Concrete
- If you notice cracks in the concrete, whether inside or outside your home, it could be a sign of shifting soil around the foundation. This pressure from expanding and contracting soil can cause the walls to crack or even bulge.
Keep an eye out for significant cracks, as smaller hairline fractures are typically part of the normal settling process and are not a cause for concern.
Check Crawl Spaces
- Crawl spaces under your home are crucial to check for foundation issues. These spaces reveal post and concrete supports as well as piers, which need to be in good condition. Start by inspecting the perimeter walls for any visible signs of damage, then move into the crawl space itself.
Inspect Wooden Components
- Just as you would check a concrete slab, use a screwdriver to probe the wooden posts, piers, and other structural supports in your crawl space. You’re looking for any signs of rot or decay.
Additionally, check for standing water or mold, as these issues can worsen over time and lead to significant damage.
Visual Inspection
- Sometimes, the best tool you have is your own eyes. Look carefully at the foundation’s walls, especially where the slab meets the posts and piers. Check for any sagging subflooring or misalignments. This simple visual inspection can often reveal significant issues early on.
Basement Foundation Checks
- If your home has a basement, it’s similar to checking a concrete slab or crawl space. The posts in the basement support the entire structure, so they should be straight and show no signs of rot.
Test the sturdiness of the posts to ensure they’re solid and not easily movable. If you detect any issues, it could indicate a problem with the foundation.
Warning Signs
While settling is normal over time, certain indoor signs suggest more serious foundation issues:
- Doors that begin to jam or fail to latch properly
- Cracks in the walls, especially around doorways, windows, or where walls meet the ceiling
- Cracks in vinyl or ceramic tile, particularly on concrete floors
- Windows that are difficult to open or close due to shifting
If you notice cracks in your concrete foundation and require professional help, call us at (877) 727-2259. Our experts at Crack-X will inspect your property and take the necessary measures to repair your foundation. Crack-X is a civil structure repair company operating in Maine and New Hampshire.