What are Some Other Signs of Foundation Damage?

The most obvious signs of foundation damage, of course, are spreading cracks in your basement floor and walls. These cracks, and where they lie, can help you to understand the nature of the damage. Of course, there are other, subtler signs of damage that you may also be able to catch, too.  

• Flooding  

If the air in your basement is humid, you find the walls are wet, or there is dampness around the cracks in your basement flooring, this is a sign that water is seeping up from under the floor. As foundation damage is one of the most common causes of cracks in a basement floor or walls, it is important that you learn to recognize it. If you do not take steps to deal with it, your basement will face frequent flooding.  

Not only that, but the constant water damage can also create other problems, as well. For one, you might detect a musty smell from all the standing water or sewage infiltrating your basement. You might also find mold, mildew, or even pests infesting your basement, too.  

• Ruined Infrastructure  

If your foundation becomes damaged, the rest of your home will start to show signs of damage, too. For instance, you might notice your floor starting to sag or bounce in places. This will often be accompanied by cracks in the corners of your basement. This occurs due to the foundation shifting or even splintering apart your floor’s support beams (also known as joists). These joists carry the weight of you, your family, and all your belongings, which is why it is so crucial to protect them alongside your foundation.  

Similarly, you might notice that your doors and windows are harder to open. A damaged foundation can cause your doorways and windowsills to tilt, effectively trapping your doors and windows in their frames. You might find yourself exerting more effort just to open them as a result. You might also find your walls starting to tilt over time, too, which often means your house is close to collapsing in on itself.