Your foundation supports the rest of your home. When it gets damaged, the structural integrity of your home can be compromised. Environmental stress and inadequate construction are two things that can cause problems for your foundation. The signs of foundation damage can appear on the interior or exterior of your home.
Cracks in the Walls
Cracks maybe be noticeable in the the drywall on the inside of the home. They can also appear outside your home on the exterior bricks. Cracks with a zigzag appearance are especially indicative of foundation issues because this shape often means the house is settling.
Uneven Floors
If the floors in a home have become noticeably sloped or uneven, this can mean that a foundation repair is needed. This problem can occur when one side of the foundation sinks into the ground further than the other. Sometimes, uneven floors can be caused by another issue, such as rotting joists.
Wet Basement
A damage foundation can allow moisture into your basement. If you notice water or mildew downstairs, it could mean you need repairs. Certain types of bugs, like centipedes and roaches, thrive in moist areas, so seeing these creatures can also indicate a foundation problem.
Sticking Doors and Windows
When doors and windows won’t open and close as smoothly as they used to, this could mean there’s something wrong with your foundation. As a house settles, it can tilt slightly. The doors and windows may not fit in their frames properly anymore.
A Cracked or Tilted Chimney
A tilted or cracked chimney can be an indication that your foundation has a problem. In most cases, chimneys are installed at the time the house is built, and they are reliant on the foundation for stability. A damaged chimney can be dangerous, so it’s best to get it looked at as quickly as possible.
If your foundation is damaged, you may need an exterior foundation repair. A contractor will be able to assess the situation and advise you on what kind of work needs to be done. When signs of damage appear, get them looked at before problems grow worse. A damaged foundation can impact the integrity and value of your home.
Gabriel