Do you have a moment to talk about your home's foundation?
A major structural problem with your home is probably every homeowner’s worst nightmare. Structural problems left unattended decrease your homes’ value and only worsen over time. Problems with your foundation can lead to other potential home repairs, so it’s important to get them fixed as soon as possible. Fortunately, there are a few easy ways to tell that your foundation is in need of repair. Here are four signs that you need foundation repairs.
Uneven or Cracked Windows and Doors - Hairline cracks on windows can be a sign that the foundation beneath your home is shifting. Monitor the cracks to see if they widen, which means that the foundation is shifting. Also, check to make sure that windows and doors open and close properly. Uneven windows and doors that do not fit squarely, or doors that stick or malfunction, indicate the foundation needs to be repaired. You can further assess the severity of the foundation shift by measuring the gap between the top of the door and the frame.
Cracks in the Concrete - Cracks in the exposed concrete at the base of your home could signal a problem with the foundation. Smaller cracks may indicate a non-structural problem, while deep, vertical cracks indicate potential structural issues. If you are unsure about the severity of these cracks, contact a foundation repair specialist to assess the situation.
Standing Water - Mildew growing on the outside of your house near the bottom of the walls may indicate a drainage problem. If there is standing water around your home or water is not properly absorbing into the soil, there may be an issue with the foundation.
Cracked Floors - Tile that is broken or cracked suggests that the foundation beneath the flooring may also be cracked. Tile that is loose or hollow-sounding may mean that the foundation beneath has dipped downward, creating an uneven surface for your home. Contact a foundation repair specialist before it is too late.
If you are seeing any of the above signs of foundation problems around your home, you probably need to have an evaluation done. Let’s say, for the purpose of this blog, that you’ve scheduled that and someone has come out, taken a look, and told you that you do indeed have some foundational issues. What can you do about it?
1) Maybe you’re not particularly fond of your home…Can you sell your house for a reduced price rather than repair the foundation?
If you are financing the sale yourself, this poses no problem. Loaning institutions generally will not close a loan without repairs being done or scheduled. However, beware as some state laws impose severe penalties for fraudulently concealing a structural problem from a buyer.
2) Maybe you’re not quite ready to move yet…will your home be less marketable in the future because you have had the foundation repaired?
Quite the contrary. If the foundation of your home is repaired by a reputable contractor it is considered stronger after the repairs are performed. Therefore, appraisal values will be the same, as if the problem had never developed. If you are planning on selling your home after the foundation repair work is performed the warranty from the contractor and their reputation are more important than ever.
3) Maybe you love your home and you want to continue loving it for many years to come…how do you find a qualified and efficient team to work on your foundation?
Start by taking a look online at the contractors located in your area. Check out their services, their certifications, what kind of warranties they offer, and their Google Reviews and Better Business Bureau rating. If you feel comfortable reaching out to them, schedule a free consultation. Don’t be afraid to schedule consultations with more than one contractor. Aim to find a qualified and competent contractor that you feel comfortable interacting with. Don’t necessarily go with the contractor who tells you what you want to hear. Sometimes the truth is painful, especially when home repairs are needed. However, a time consuming or slightly more expensive yet permanent repair might be worth it instead of taking the cheaper and easier route that will need to be re-addressed in only a few years.
Looking for more? Give us a call or fill out our Contact Form. We’ll be happy to address any questions you might have about our services or about your home foundation.