There are few things a homeowner fears more than signs of foundation problems. However, they’re more common than you might think. An estimated 25% of homes will experience these issues at some point in their lives.
Foundation issues can render a home unsafe to live in and cost a considerable amount of money to fix. For those reasons, it’s important to repair any problems as soon as you see them.
These are the 3 most troubling signs of foundation damage.
Cracks on the Walls or Floor
If you notice cracks forming on the walls or floor of your home, it may be a sign of a serious issue with your home foundation. Not all cracks are cause for alarm, so you need to know what to look for.
The most worrisome cracks have a few key features. First, if you notice a diagonal crack on an interior wall, it’s likely you have some form of foundational problem.
Second, keep your eyes out for cracks wider than about 1/8th of an inch. These wider cracks could indicate structural problems with your home.
“Stair-step” cracks are another troubling crack to find around your house. These cracks are shaped like a staircase and should be easy to locate. You’ll most likely notice these on an exterior brick wall.
You should be aware that cracks can form on both your interior and exterior walls. Be sure to check the outside of your home.
Tiny hairline cracks aren’t a serious cause for concern. Newly constructed homes will naturally develop these cracks in the first few years of their life.
They’re most commonly found near windows and caused by changes in temperature.
Warped Floors and Ceilings
Sagging floors and ceilings could be a sign of foundation movement. As the foundation shifts, it puts stress on walls and support structures.
Both concrete slabs and pier and beam foundations are affected by this movement, but they’re affected in different ways.
Pier and beam foundations are prone to sagging and will squeak when you walk across them. Concrete slabs that rest on top of the foundation will become slanted.
Doors Won’t Open or Close as They Should
Another common sign of foundation damage is doors sticking in the door jam or failing to close properly. Foundation movement can cause the door frames to warp, making them harder to open and close.
Check all of the doors in your home regularly. If you notice that a few of them are plagued by this issue, you’ll want to contact a foundation repair company immediately.
Stay Vigilant for Signs of Foundation Problems
Many homes experience foundation issues. It’s just a reality of being a homeowner. Fortunately, the signs of foundation problems are easy to spot.
Large cracks, sagging floors, and sticky doors are all issues that are hard to ignore.
While they’re not always indicative of a major complication like foundation cracks, it’s always a good idea to get in touch with foundation repair services like Lux Foundation Solutions if you notice something awry.
