Signs of Foundation Problems  

A home is the biggest investment most people ever make in a lifetime. Understanding and catching signs of foundation issues is vital in protecting this investment and the safety of your home. There are many reasons that foundation problems arise. Most originate because of the soil houses are built upon. Some soil types can be too dry, too soft or poorly compacted. Other reasons for foundation issues come from deteriorating beam supports in a crawl space or basement. Here are some signs, from the interior and exterior, that can signal foundation problems.  

Signs Inside of your Home:  

Sagging Floors  

If you have a crawl space, you may notice that there are gaps between your floors and walls, or the floors are ‘bouncy’. Moisture issues in a basement or crawl space may cause wood rot on important beams that support the floors above. Whether the issue is because of sinking or insufficient beam support, it needs to be addressed right away.  

Wall Failure or Cracks 

Some signs that you might see outside, you’ll also see inside. Cracks or bowing walls seen on the interior can be a scary sight. Cracks will often start out narrow and widen as they move up the wall. Bowing or tipping walls are signs of settlement.  

Drywall Cracks  

Cracks in the walls of your home are a good indicator of settlement. Signs include cracks that extend outward from corners of doors and windows, follow drywall seams, or drywall tape that buckles, pulls or rips.  

Signs Outside of your Home:  

Stair-step Cracking 

These types of cracks are common in brick or block walls. As a home settles more, vertical cracks may widen. This may mean that the wall is rotating. 

Separating Chimneys 

Brick chimneys are very heavy, and most are built on separate foundations that are not connected to the home. This increases the chances of settlement.  

Problem Doors and Windows  

This is another sign that may be seen from the outside and the inside. Where there is an opening, like a door or window, there is a weaker part of a wall. For this reason, these areas often show the first signs of a problem. In the case of foundation issues, doors and windows can be out of square, separate from the frame, or there is cracking that extends from the corners.  

If you notice one or more of these signs, no need to fret, Cleveland Basement Systems has an abundance of solutions for your foundation needs. Give us a call at 1-440-281-8156 today to get scheduled with a FREE in-home estimate and meet with an expert inspector.