Your home’s roof protects everything below it, but its foundation is the part that holds up everything, including the roof. So, the last thing you want to discover are signs of a damaged foundation because then your home’s solid sturdiness could easily become compromised.
Of course, it’s not always easy to tell worrisome foundation damage from non-serious issues. For example, sometimes a crack in the floor is just a crack that was caused by the house settling, and not a sign that the home is sinking. Here are eight serious warning signs to watch out for that will signal your foundation might be damaged and in need of repair.
Large Cracks in the Exterior
Thin cracks in the exterior are usually just the result of the home settling, but when the cracks are large or run in a zig-zag pattern, then you may have a more serious issue. If your home has a brick exterior and there are cracks in the bricks, or you have bricks protruding from the wall, then you need to call in a professional to inspect the foundation.
Cracked Floor Tiles
Flooring tile is both durable and brittle at the same time, so it’s not uncommon for one to crack should it be hit just right. But if you have multiple tiles developing cracks, then this may be a sign of a damaged foundation.
Cracks in the Drywall
A damaged foundation can also cause problems in the home’s walls. When one part of the home shifts more than the other, cracks can form in the drywall, or the drywall may pull away where the wall meets the ceiling. If a crack has a zig-zag appearance or runs the length of the wall from ceiling to floor, then this is a good sign that you have a foundation issue.
Gaps Between Window (and Door) Frames and Brick Wall
If gaps are noticeable between your window or door frames and the brick, then this is a serious issue that’s indicative of foundation damage.
Doors Out of Square
If your interior doors were once square but no longer are, then this is a sign that the home may be shifting. A professional should be called in to determine whether the shifting is just normal settling, or if a more serious foundation issue is the cause. The same applies if you suddenly notice your floors aren’t even.
Nails Popping Out of Drywall
When nails pop out of drywall, it’s not a guaranteed sign that your foundation is in trouble, but it very well could be. Either way, you should take it as a sign to have your foundation checked in any case.
Gaps in Expansion Joints
An expansion joint allows a home to flex, so it can handle the eventual shifting of the earth that’s caused by the elements and other natural events. But expansion joints are only designed to flex so much. If you notice gaps developing in your home’s expansion joints, then your foundation likely needs to be inspected.
Exterior Walls Pulling Away From the House
This is the most serious sign that your home has a damaged foundation, so you do not want to wait to bring in a professional. Wait too long, and the wall of your home could completely collapse.
Be On The Lookout for Foundation Damage
These are the most common signs of a damaged foundation, but not all of them indicate a guaranteed problem with your foundation. For example, if your window or door frames are not plumb, it may be the result of poor workmanship. In such a case, replacing the windows or doors with ones that are properly installed may be the solution.
If you need new windows or entry door, or you want to get a free estimate for an installation, contact Thompson Creek today.