Are you worried that your house foundation may be failing? You’re not alone. Structural issues with the foundation can cause major damage and must be addressed as soon as possible. However, not many homeowners know the signs to look out for that might indicate a failing foundation. In this article, we’ll discuss some signs that your house foundation is failing, so you can take action immediately. Let’s get to the list.
Cracks in Exterior and Interior Walls
One of the major signs that your house foundation is failing is that you start to see cracks in your exterior and interior walls. Foundation shifting or settling can cause these types of cracks, which are usually wider at the top than they are at the bottom. You might also see horizontal or stair-step cracking in brick or block walls.
If these cracks appear on your home’s exterior, they can be an indication that the house is out of level. You will need experts to inspect the foundation to ensure it isn’t shifting or sinking. You can find companies who’ll fix foundation issues and restore your home to its original level. They will use piers or other foundation repair products to raise and level the house to ensure the foundation is secure.
Doors or Windows That Stick
Another sign that your house foundation may be failing is if you find it difficult to open or close doors and windows in your home. This is because a problem with the foundation can cause the structure of your home to shift and warp. These changes can cause doors and windows to stick, or they may even not close all the way.
If you start noticing this sign, it’s a good idea to call in foundation experts who can assess the situation and determine if there are problems with the foundation of your house. They can then recommend solutions and repairs that can improve the stability of the foundation and take care of any issues with doors or windows that stick.
In some cases, simple repairs like replacing loose door hinges or investing in new windows may be enough to fix the sticking issue. However, if your foundation has more serious underlying problems, major repairs may be necessary.
Gaps in Wall Corners
Gaps that start appearing in your wall corners can also be a sign that your house foundation is failing. These gaps, which usually appear between walls and flooring, are caused by the settling or shifting of the foundation underneath the house. It’s important to fix these issues as soon as possible because they can lead to more structural problems in the future.
The best way to repair these gaps is to fill them with a flexible filler. You can buy ready-made products specifically designed for this purpose or mix up your own using a combination of cement, sand, and water. This will stabilize the gap over time and make it less likely to open up again. However, if the gaps are very large, you may need to have the house foundation repaired by a professional.
Uneven or Sloping Floors
Another sign that your house foundation is failing is if you start to notice sloping or uneven floors in your home. This can be caused by a problem with the foundation, such as settling or shifting. Uneven floors can also lead to serious structural problems in the future, so it’s important to address this issue right away.
The best way to repair uneven floors is to use a concrete grinder. This tool will allow you to level the floor and make it even again. If the sloping is too severe, you may need to have the foundation assessed by experts who can recommend solutions for your particular situation. Additionally, you may need to have the foundation reinforced or repaired in order to ensure it is secure and stable.
Visible Gaps Around Doors and Windows
Visible gaps around doors and windows can also be a sign that your house’s foundation is failing. This happens because the shifting of the foundation causes walls to move and warp, leaving gaps in areas where the structure should be tight and secure.
If you notice visible gaps around your doors and windows, it’s important to have an expert inspect the foundation of your house to determine the severity of the issue. The sooner you take action, the less likely you’ll have to deal with costly repairs down the line. It may be as simple as adding a few extra shims around your doors and windows or require more extensive work, such as foundation underpinning. Either way, it’s best to get it taken care of sooner rather than later.
Cabinets or Counters Separated From Walls
If you notice that your cabinets or counters are separating from the walls, it could be another sign that your house’s foundation is failing. This happens because the walls start to move due to the shifting of the soil underneath, and the pressure from the weight of the countertops or cabinets becomes too much.
If you notice this issue, call a professional right away to inspect your home and see if the foundation needs repairs or if it is something simpler such as drywall repair. This kind of problem should never be taken lightly since it can affect the structural integrity of your home and cause major damage down the line. Moreover, it could be a sign of larger issues with the foundation, so getting ahead of any problems as soon as possible is important.
Warped or Cracked Siding
If you find that your siding is warped or cracked, it could be a sign of foundation issues. This happens because the shifting of the soil beneath your home can cause pressure that affects the walls, which then causes cracks and warping in the siding. It can also result from improper installation or old age, but it’s always best to get your home inspected and ensure the foundation is up to par.
If you find that the siding needs to be replaced, it’s important to get it done quickly and professionally so you don’t have any further issues. It might also be a good idea to re-inspect the foundation after having a new best to inspect your home and ensure the foundation is up to par.
It’s important to be aware of any potential signs that your house foundation may need repairs. These include cabinets and counters separating from the walls, warped or cracked siding, windows and doors not aligning properly, water damage in the basement, cracks in the walls and floors, and more. If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to call a professional immediately so you can get your home’s foundation checked and repaired. That way, you can ensure your home is safe and secure for years.
