As a homeowner, you have probably already invested a lot in your house and don’t want unnecessary expenses, like when a foundation goes south (sometimes, literally). While we cannot always completely prevent foundation issues from developing, catching them early can save you from an astronomical bill and major disruption to your life.
Develop an Inspection Routine
Before we get to the signs of potential foundation issues, it’s worth mentioning that the habit of routinely inspecting your home will serve you well. A good way to spot problems early is to examine the house for issues every four to six months. Look for any of the following:
Wall Cracks
One of the most obvious and recognizable signs of foundation issues is cracks in the walls, both interior and exterior. Interior cracks usually form around doors and windows, while exterior damage tends to appear near the foundation. Also, keep an eye out for cracks that appear on the floor.
Gaps Between Walls and Windows
Nobody wants to see a gaping space between their windows and walls because this can be a sign of foundation issues or plumbing problems. When the foundation is responsible, the area of separation tends to be between 1/4 and 1/2 of an inch.
Noisy or Misshapen Floorboards
If your home has wooden floorboards, take note of how they sound. Squeaky floorboards might just be old, but they can also hint at foundation issues. Similarly, bouncing and sagging floorboards aren’t always indicative of a foundation problem, but it warrants a closer look as the floor can warp due to moisture in your basement or foundation.
Cabinets Separate From the Wall
A settling foundation or soil compaction can cause cabinets and even counters to display a space away from the wall. Make sure that this is not due to poor cabinet installation by having a professional check the health of your foundation.
Water Tends to Pool Around Your Foundation
When it comes to how to recognize foundation issues early, add this tip at the top of your checklist. When water has a habit of gathering around the foundation of your home, it needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. It could be a sign that the foundation is sinking. If that is the case, ignoring the issue could lead to further significant structural damage.
Doors That Get Stuck
Once again, a door that resists your attempts to open or close it can have several factors unrelated to your foundation. Things like humidity and incorrect hinge alignment can cause doors to get stuck. However, when a dodgy foundation is responsible, stuck doors will be accompanied by other signs such as cabinet separation, cracked walls, and floor problems.
The Walls Look Wrong
A sound wall is crack-free and straight. Apart from cracks and fractures, any wall abnormality can also point to foundation issues. These include walls that are bowed, warped, or otherwise strange-looking.
A Damaged Chimney
Very often, when a foundation sinks, the chimney can develop cracks or start to lean to one side. Considering that a falling chimney poses a serious health risk to your family and pets, it’s important to act immediately when you notice anything wrong.
Spot a Problem? Call an Expert
Some homeowners do a stellar job when they repair the problems that pop up around the house. But foundation repair is one of those times when DIY is not the answer. Repairs involve specialist assessments, procedures, and craftsmen. Should you notice anything of concern around your home and foundation, don’t hesitate to call a structural engineer to inspect your house and provide expert advice.