Signs of a Bad Home Foundation

A bad home foundation can cause cracks in walls and uneven flooring. In some cases, walls can even pull away from the house and cause the entire structure to fall. You can also notice sagging ceilings or floors. If you see any of these symptoms, it’s time to hire a professional to evaluate your home’s foundation. The sooner you get it taken care of, the better.

Small cracks in a brick foundation

Small cracks in a brick foundation are often caused by poor drainage, soil erosion, or hydrostatic pressure. You can avoid these problems by installing a sound drainage system around the foundation. If cracks occur, foundation experts can fix them or seal any gaps. If these cracks are too extensive, there could be an advanced problem involving the foundation and the home’s structural integrity.

The bricks used in brick foundations are porous, so the soil around them expands and contracts in different climates. Over time, the soil can crack the brick, exposing the home to water damage and mold. The most apparent cause is a faulty foundation. However, other factors can also cause cracks in bricks, including excessive temperature and moisture in the soil.

Small cracks in a brick foundation are not dangerous. Still, they are an indication that a foundation problem may be developing. These cracks maybe 10 to 15 inches long and may be caused by contact between the bricks and the foundation slab. However, cracks extending horizontally and larger than an inch are more concerning. Cracks of this kind are common in homes built on hills or soils rapidly degrading.

Uneven flooring

Having uneven flooring in your home can be an indication that there is a problem with the foundation of your home. This can result in long-term issues, including the risk of mold. If you suspect this problem, it’s essential to fix it immediately.

The most common reason for uneven floors is the movement of the foundation. This can be due to dehydration or expansion of soil. In such cases, the home may require a foundation repair. Fortunately, Done Right Foundation Repair can fix most foundation problems.

Rotten wood in piers and beams

If you notice rotten wood in the piers and beams of your home, you should immediately get the foundation checked out. It may signify several problems, including soil movement or infestation of termites. It might also be the result of an improper installation. Either way, rotten wood will result in structural damage to your home.

If the door frames are loose from the brick wall, the door frame is also a sign of a bad home foundation. Besides door frames, the piers and beams of a typical house are made from wooden materials. These materials may become rotted over time because of excess moisture. Rotting wood indicates more severe problems in the home’s foundation.

If the rotted wood in piers and beams is causing the floor to sag, it indicates a bad home foundation. You must replace or reinforce them to prevent the floor from sagging. The rotted wood also encourages mold and termites.

Ceiling cracks

Several factors can lead to the development of ceiling cracks in a home. These cracks can occur naturally with aging, or they may indicate more severe problems. A deeper examination of the damages can help you identify their cause and potential future issues. While everything ages over time, some things age more gracefully than others. The age of your home, the type of roofing material, and the amount of wear and tear are all factors that can cause cracks to occur.

While minor cracks in ceilings are not caused for concern, large ceiling cracks are often an indication of a broader structural problem. These cracks indicate water damage or a more severe issue that will require professional help to resolve. When cracks are present in ceilings, it’s best to have them inspected by a professional.

A wide crack in a home’s ceiling is one of the most common warning signs of a bad home foundation. Large cracks that extend more than one-eighth of an inch are the most dangerous. A wide, long crack in a load-bearing wall is also problematic. Likewise, a sagging or bowing ceiling may indicate an aging foundation.

About Done Right Foundation Repair

Locally Owned, Texas Proud

Done Right Foundation Repair was created over 20 years ago by Chris Felsing with the support of his family. He started with a small team and a big dream, learning the ins and outs of foundation repair as he went. He and his team looked for ways to provide a complete solution to all foundation issues and have worked tirelessly for the past 20 years to master their craft. Our Central Texas locations: Done Right Foundation Repair in Austin, Done Right Foundation Repair in New Braunfels, Done Right Foundation Repair in San Marcos