How to Recognize the Signs of a Damaged Foundation

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Your home's foundation is the most important part of your house. It's what stabilizes the entire building and ensures it doesn't crumble or shift. Unfortunately, foundation problems aren't always obvious to homeowners. But, it's essential to be able to recognize the signs that your foundation needs repairs to prevent further damage to your home and keep your family safe.

In this blog post, we'll be discussing the signs that your home's foundation needs to be repaired so you'll know what to look out for and when to consult a professional.

1. Cracks and gaps

One of the most common signs of foundation damage is cracks in the walls, ceilings, or floors in your home. Small hairline cracks could be a sign of minor settling, but bigger or wider cracks indicate more significant foundation damage. Pay attention to gaps between the walls and the ceiling or floor, which may indicate that the foundation is separating from the framing of your home.

2. Uneven floors

If the floors in your home feel unlevel or slope in one direction, this could be due to a sinking or shifting foundation. This can happen because of changes in the soil, water damage, or other environmental factors. Failing to address this issue can lead to bigger problems, such as doors that won't close properly, so be sure to get professional help if you notice your floors are uneven.

3. Windows and doors that don't close properly

If you notice that your doors and windows aren't closing properly and appear to be sticking or jamming, this could be a sign of foundation problems. A shifting foundation can cause your home's frames to warp, making it difficult to close doors or windows properly.

4. Cracks in the foundation walls

If you can see cracks in your foundation wall, you should act promptly to avoid further damage or even collapse. These can be caused by shrinkage of the concrete, settling, or excavation near the foundation. A professional should be called in to investigate the cause and recommend a solution.

5. Crumbling or chipping concrete

Crumbling or chipping concrete foundations can be due to many reasons, such as extreme weather or moisture problems. If you find pieces of concrete on your basement floor or in the yard around your home, this may indicate that your foundation needs repairs. Like cracks, even small chips should be addressed quickly to avoid more severe deterioration.

Recognizing the signs of foundation damage early can mean avoiding more expensive repairs down the line. If you notice any of the issues we’ve listed, it’s important to get in touch with a foundation specialist immediately. Foundation repair professionals can not only help you determine the cause of the damage, but they can also propose and perform a solution that will fix the problem and help your home regain its structural stability.

Contact a local foundation repair contractor to learn more. 

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