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6 Common Signs of Foundation Problems

Foundation damage. Stair step cracks on exterior bricks.

As a homeowner, it’s natural to take pride in your home and its upkeep.

However, spotting foundation issues can often be challenging amidst your maintenance routines. Foundation problems can sneak up, potentially causing significant damage if not addressed promptly.  

To help, here are six key indicators that may signal foundation troubles: 

Signs of Foundation Problems

Cracked concrete floor.

1. Cracks in Walls or Floor

Cracks in walls or floors are unmistakable indicators of potential foundation trouble. These fissures, whether found on the interior walls, the home’s exterior, or along the floor, signal that the foundation may be under stress or shifting.

Sticking window at a home.

2. Sticking Doors and Windows

Sticking doors and windows that used to open smoothly might be more than just a minor inconvenience. They can signify that the foundation has moved, altering the frames and making them difficult to operate.

Gap between floor and wall.

3. Gaps Between Wall & Floor

Gaps between walls and floor are telltale signs of foundational movement. As the foundation shifts, it can cause the house to settle unevenly, leading to visible separations.

Sagging floors inside a home.

4. Sagging Floors

Sagging floors are not just an aesthetic issue but can also indicate a deeper problem with the foundation, especially in older properties. This sinking can result from the ground beneath the foundation settling over time.

Brick chimney leaning away from a home.

5. Leaning Chimney

A leaning chimney is a clear warning sign. If it starts to tilt or seems to be detaching from the house, it’s often because the foundation directly below it is failing to provide the necessary support.

Bowing concrete block wall inside a basement.

6. Bowing Basement Walls

Bowing basement walls suggest external pressure, typically from waterlogged soil pressing against the foundation. This scenario demands immediate attention to prevent further damage and ensure the home’s safety.

How to Fix Foundation Damage?


Now that you know what to look for regarding foundation damage, let’s delve into how to address and rectify these issues. Innovative Basement Authority specializes in tackling foundation concerns with custom solutions tailored to your home:

Solutions For Settlement

Piering System: Utilizes push, helical, and slab piers, stabilizing structures by transferring weight to piers anchored in solid ground.

Solutions For Lateral Pressure

Wall Reinforcement: Incorporates wall anchors and wall braces, designed to fortify and realign basement walls against soil moisture changes and hydrostatic pressure.

Understanding these signs and solutions empowers you to take the right steps toward securing your home’s foundation with confidence.

Secure Your Foundation with Innovative Basement Authority

Choosing Innovative Basement Authority for your foundation repair work means you’re getting the benefit of seasoned experts.

Our track record and various solution options set us apart, making us the go-to experts for any foundation-related concern. Our approach is about providing lasting solutions.

With Innovative Basement Authority, you can expect:

  • Proven Expertise: Nearly 20 years of experience tackling all types of foundation issues.
  • Preventative Approach: We believe in catching problems early to prevent minor issues from escalating into costly repairs.

Waiting can only make foundation problems worse. By scheduling a free inspection with us today. Trust Innovative Basement Authority to provide the expertise and care your foundation needs.

FAQs

Foundation pier installation requires professional equipment and expertise for proper placement and effectiveness.

Yes, seasonal changes, particularly freeze-thaw cycles and varying moisture levels in the soil, can impact foundation cracks by causing expansion and contraction in the foundation materials.

It’s advisable to inspect your foundation at least once a year for any signs of damage such as cracks, leaks, or uneven flooring. Additional inspections should be conducted after extreme weather events like heavy rain or drought.

Leah Leitow

Leah Leitow

Content Writer

Leah is a Content Writer for Groundworks with nearly ten years of experience working in the foundation repair industry. Her experience ranges from working with homeowners to find the right solution to training inspectors and staff. In her background as a Michigan journalist, she gained invaluable insight into people's lives throughout our state. Leah lives in metro Detroit with her husband and two sons.

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