Foundation problems can be caused by a variety of topics – poor drainage, climate conditions such as drought, poor soil conditions, and plumbing leaks, to name a few. 

The foundation is one of the essential parts of any home, if not the most important. The foundation is what supports your home, keeps moisture out, resists movement, and insulates from the heat and cold. 

Unfortunately, while most foundations last a lifetime without any issues, there are instances in which a foundation can fail somehow. 

Foundation problems can create issues throughout your home, so knowing the signs of foundation troubles. The earlier you detect the warning signs of foundation problems, the more quickly a foundation repair contractor can address the damage before it gets out of hand. 

Whether you’re buying a home and concerned about its foundation, or you’re a homeowner and think you may be dealing with foundation problems, we’re here to help. Here are 11 warning signs of foundation failure that you should watch.

 

1. Exterior wall cracks

Look out for cracks along the exterior walls of your home. Should inspect small, thin cracks on the surface. However, large exterior cracks shaped in a zigzag pattern may signify foundation problems. Additionally, bricks that protrude from the wall should always be checked. 

 

2. Interior wall cracks

You’ll also want to keep an eye out for cracks along the walls inside your home. Cracks heading in a diagonal direction off the corners of door and window frames are a sign you need to get your foundation checked. 

The more extensive and prolonged the crack line is, the bigger the problem. Should be monitored more minor cracks for changes. If they grow larger or quickly, you may have foundation problems. 

 

3. Bowing walls

Bowing walls are another indication of foundation problems. Finally, you’ll want to look out for diagonal cracks inside or outside the wall, as these cracks can indicate turning.

You can fix the bowing issue, but you also need to address the foundation problems causing the bowing, so it doesn’t happen again.

 

4. Uneven and sagging floors 

Uneven floors are typically an indication that the foundation is settling or shifting underneath. If you suspect your floors are uneven or sagging, roll a marble across the floor and see if it takes a straight path or veers towards the center of the room.

While this isn’t the most scientific method, it will give you a rough estimation of the problem. Sometimes the sloping is caused by bad structural design, but the issue can be traced back to the foundation in most cases. 

 

5. Basement and crawl space moisture

If you have cracks in your foundation, you can be sure that water will find them and make its way into your basement or crawl space.

These damp spaces can omit a foul, musty odor, which you will likely begin to smell. If you notice this type of odor or visible water in your basement or crawl space, it’s imperative to determine the source of the issue and then take steps to minimize moisture.

 

6. Crooked doors and door frame separation

When foundations move from their original position, it can create a crooked or “out-of-square” door. That means the door frame opening no longer has 90-degree angles at each corner. Out-of-square doors are a common sign of foundation problems. 

A simple way to identify this problem is to step back a few feet from the door and examine the top edge of the door in the frame.

You should see a consistent gap between the door and the shelf across from left to right.

If one side has a more significant gap than the other, the door is “out-of-square,” and you may have more substantial foundation issues.

 

7. Sticking doors or windows

If you notice your windows and doors are becoming harder to close, it could signify foundation problems. As an unstable foundation shifts, the shape of frames can warp. That can cause doors and windows not to close correctly.  

 

8. Gaps between walls, windows, or doors

Besides the fact that you don’t want cold or hot air leaking into your home, gaps between walls, windows, and doors can indicate foundation problems.

Look for gaps in other interior areas of your home as well. For example, gaps above your kitchen cabinets or between the wall and countertop could indicate foundation problems. 

 

9. Drywall cracks and nails popping out of the drywall

If you notice the head of a pin peeking out through your drywall and paint, be sure to monitor it. One or two nail pops here, or there can be an easy fix. However, if they occur frequently, it could mean more significant foundation problems.

 

10. A cracked or leaning chimney

If your chimney starts leaning or you notice cracks in it, you may think you have an issue with your chimney. However, these warning signs are often indicators of foundation problems.

If you notice your chimney looks crooked, immediately bring in a professional to repair and reinforce it. 

A tilting chimney poses a severe threat to your family and your home as it can collapse entirely. But, equally important, you’ll need to address the foundation issues at the root of the problem. If not, your chimney reinforcement may not hold. 

 

11. Cracked floor tile

Of course, they can damage floor tiles by dropping things on them. However, when this happens, the damage is usually limited to a small area.

If you see a crack that runs across multiple tiles or tiles lifted off the floor, don’t ignore the issue, as there could be a problem with your foundation.

Don’t panic if you notice one or two of these warning signs. All homes settle to some extent. However, if the issues arise more frequently, you may have a more significant problem.

If you’re concerned about foundation damage, you should contact a foundation repair contractor and have them inspect your home. An experienced professional should find the source of your problem and stop further damage.

 

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If you are interested in acquiring your new home or selling the one you already have, do not hesitate to contact our EXP Realty consultants. We guarantee quality attention and the best homes in the area, with personalized marketing strategies to achieve the most significant benefit.

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