5 Signs of Foundation Problems in Your Home

5 Signs of Foundation Problems in Your Home

 A damaged foundation can lead to big — and expensive — problems for your home. We share the signs to watch for so you can get ahead of foundation problems before they arise.

How much do you know about your home’s foundation? Structural problems in the home can seem overwhelming, confusing and costly. Signs of foundation damage to your home can appear in different ways, some obvious and large, others small and unassuming. Generally, it is safe to live in a house with a small amount of foundation damage, but over time those minor cracks can turn into a costly foundation repair. That’s why it’s important to be aware of the different ways foundational damage can appear, and when to be prepared to call a professional.

Top 5 Signs of Foundation Problems

1. Foundation Cracks

   Cracks in the foundation of your home can be obvious, such as on the exterior of your home on walls or steps. They can also be found hidden in the interior of sheetrock or other hard to see places. Slab foundations are most vulnerable to foundation cracks, especially in cold climates.

   Small cracks on walls or steps are usually not an immediate issue, but definitely something to keep an eye on. Cracks that are large in a zig-zag or step pattern are a clear sign of foundation problems that should be checked out by a professional.

2. Foundation Settling

   You may notice your home beginning to settle over time. The main distinction between normal house settling versus foundation problems is whether the home settles more than a few inches. This can often lead to a visible problem such as half of your home sitting lower than the other half. This is an important warning sign of foundation damage to have checked out immediately. It could be required to lift or install foundation piers to the structure of your home.

3. Sticking Doors

   When the doors in your home begin to stick while opening or closing, this can be a sign of movement in the foundation. This can be due to the humidity of where you live and often happens a few days after recent heavy rain or flooding. If you see cracks around the door frame in addition to the door becoming stuck, bring in a certified contractor to have a look.

4. Slanting Floors

   If you’ve noticed your floors are slanting, uneven or bowing, this could be a sign of foundation issues. Uneven floors could be affected differently based on the foundation of your home. If your foundation issues have impacted the pier and beam foundation, the floors can sag. If you have concrete slabs on top of the pier and beam, they are more likely to be uneven and unlevel.

5. Water Intrusion

   If the floors or walls of your home begin to feel damp or wet, it’s an indication the foundation of your home could have cracks. Bring in a contractor and plumber immediately to prevent further water from seeping into your home and causing mold damage, which may not be covered by your homeowners insurance policy.

Is your home protected in case of a foundational issue? Connect with your Farm Bureau agent today to review your policy or see what coverage options are available today.