All new foundations settle. In other words, they gradually sink into the soil over time. While this may sound concerning, most forms of settling are normal and pose no risk to your home. But there’s one form of settling, called differential settling, that can cause severe and lasting damage. Learn how to spot the signs your home’s foundation is settling too much below.
Cracks in the Foundation
Not all cracks are causes for concern, but ones that are big, deep, or leaking generally aren’t normal. Stair-step cracking, which forms the outline of a staircase and is most common in brick and concrete foundations, is a sure sign of differential settling. When in doubt, have a pro examine cracks to be safe.
Sticky Doors and Windows
Are your doors and windows sticking? Doors and windows can stick for various reasons. And one of the reasons is settling. You may notice the frames of your door or window are uneven or pulling away from the drywall and sticking. If so, there’s a solid chance that a foundation problem is behind it.
Water in Your Basement
Does your basement resemble a murky swimming pool? If water can enter your basement freely, the foundation is likely compromised. Settling is a common cause of this. Standing water can ruin your home’s structure and lead to mold and mildew growth, so this is a problem you should fix sooner rather than later.
A Tilting Chimney
Is your chimney tilting or tearing away from your home’s foundation? This is a rare but serious sign your home’s foundation is settling too much, and you should address it immediately.
If you notice one or more of the issues on this list, you should call your local foundation repair contractor. An experienced contractor can pinpoint the cause of the settling and fix it to restore your peace of mind.
