5 warning signs of a house foundation damage
Purchasing a new home is one of life’s big milestones, and helps you build your financial security by owning rather than renting. For some, however, the excitement at buying a new house can be tempered with a nagging worry about whether the foundation will still be sound in 30 years.
The answer to this question is that it depends on how well the house was built to begin with. According to most experts, if you have a solid base for construction – proper soil conditions and construction techniques – there’s no reason why your foundation shouldn’t last as long as the rest of your house. In fact, many houses from 50 or 60 years ago are still standing strong today with their original foundations!
That said, even if your foundation is structurally sound to begin with, it may still need work over time. Here are some of the most common foundation issues you can have happen to your home, along with what to do about them.
Heaving / Uneven Settlement
This is perhaps one of the most common problems for people buying an older home or even a new house in an area where the ground gets really cold in the wintertime. When soil freezes, it causes it to expand and puts pressure on whatever is above it – including foundations. It’s also possible that if water seeps into unfrozen soil during warm summer months due to poor drainage, it may freeze in colder weather, causing heaving even in areas where soils are typically considered ‘friable’ (loose).
Heaving can cause visible cracks in the foundation and allow water to enter the home’s interior, causing damage. If you’re buying a new house and suspect this may be an issue for your location, look for signs of soil erosion around the exterior or puddles during heavy rain. If you have any doubts, seek advice from a professional on how best to address heaving.
Cracks in Masonry Foundation Walls
If there are cracks on the exterior walls of your house, they are almost certainly due to settlement issues within the ground rather than construction errors. While it may be alarming to see cracks that could suggest structural damage, remember that these cracks are not always indicative of a larger problem.
In most cases, the foundation is still sound, and the cracks are simply due to shrinkage as the mortar dries. You can usually repair these cracks with a sealant or caulk from your hardware store. However, if you’re unsure about what’s causing the cracks or notice them worsening over time, consult with a masonry repair contractor before taking further action.
Foundation Heating and Cooling Issues
If you notice unexplained spikes in your energy bills, it might be worth checking if your home’s foundation is a contributing factor. A faulty foundation can cause your home to become too hot or cold, increasing energy consumption. While it may not be feasible to completely repair the foundation, steps such as sealing windows and adding insulation to external walls can help mitigate these issues.
Wet Basements
If your basement is consistently damp or wet year-round, it could be a sign of poor drainage around your home’s exterior. This dampness can contribute to mustiness and even mold growth, particularly during humid summer weather. If heaving occurs in winter, it can worsen the problem. For this issue, you’ll need expert help – contact a drainage professional to reroute downspouts and correct any drainage issues.
Sinking Foundation
The most serious foundation problem occurs when it begins to sink or tilt. This can be due to soil erosion, tree roots growing into the foundation, or a sinking slab. If you notice any major changes in your home’s appearance, such as doors or windows no longer being level, there’s a high chance you have a sinking foundation and will need professional assistance to address it.
Conclusion
These are some of the most common foundation problems homeowners face. While repairs can be costly and time-consuming, remember that most issues can be resolved. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
If your home’s foundation requires repair, seek professional assistance as soon as possible. A faulty foundation can cause a range of problems, from cracks in the walls to wet basements. In some cases, a complete foundation rebuild may be necessary.
Foundation repairs can be an investment, but it’s important to address these issues promptly to maintain the integrity of your home. If you’re experiencing any of the common foundation problems listed above, don’t hesitate to contact Atlantic Brick and Stone for a free consultation.