Signs of Foundation Issues

When it comes to a home, you need a strong foundation. Your home needs to be built on firm ground with no signs of cracks or sinking. These problems can signal defects in the structure of the home.

Foundation issues are not something you want to mess with. They can cause a variety of issues in a home, from slopes to sticky doors to a leaning chimney.

Do you have problems with your foundation? Here are some signs you might.

Wall Cracks

If you notice wall cracks on the exterior of the home, then you may have problems with your foundation. While hairline cracks are not usually serious, large cracks in a zigzag pattern may signal a foundational issue. Vertical cracks that are greater than ¼ inch wide are the most worrisome.

Cracks in interior walls are not always major, as drywall is not very strong and can be affected by plumbing leaks and humidity. However, if the walls are crumbling, sagging, or bowing, or there are diagonal cracks or cracks running along the floor or ceiling, then those are possible signs of foundation issues.

Sinking Ground

Moisture can cause issues with your foundation, which is why most homes are graded so that rain or melted snow flows away from the foundation. If you see water pooling around the foundation of your home, you may have an issue with landscape erosion or a sinking foundation.

Drainage Issues

An unlevel foundation can cause problems with the plumbing, such as a restricted flow. Drainage issues can cause many issues, though, so be sure to assess your foundation, walls, siding, and floors.

Separated Cabinets and Counters

Foundation problems can lead to unlevel floors and walls. You may notice this issue by looking at the position of your cabinets and countertops. Are they separated from the wall or sloping? If so, there may be an issue with your foundation.

Bouncy Floors

A bounce house may seem fun, but if your home has floors that sag or bounce, then you have serious issues. This can indicate a settled foundation or rotted structural beams. Look for cracks on concrete slab floors.

 Mildew Smell

Mold or mildew smells in the home are not always caused by a failing foundation. However, they can still be problematic. A persistent mildew smell in your basement or crawl space could mean that moisture is seeping through the foundation. Moisture can result in rotting as well as attract pests, such as cockroaches, centipedes, and slugs, which feed off of mold.

Contact Us Today

A home or other building can experience various issues. Defects with the foundation are often serious and can affect the structural integrity of the home.

Construction projects can experience unforeseen issues such as defects. Whether you are a contractor or a homeowner, a Florida defective construction claim lawyer from Linkhorst & Hockin, P.A. can assist you with a claim. Schedule a consultation by calling 561-626-8880 or fill out the online form.

Source:

forbes.com/home-improvement/foundation/signs-of-house-foundation-problems/