What to Look for When Inspecting Your Foundation
A faulty foundation can cause significant problems not just in the house but also in the surrounding area. If you are looking at buying a home or have purchased one in the past, paying attention to a few key indicators will help you determine whether your foundation is in good shape. Here is a checklist you can use to inspect your home's foundation.
1. Moisture, Mold, and Poor Drainage
If your basement or crawl space is consistently damp, this can indicate a foundation problem. Water can cause mold and mildew to multiply. Dealing with any moisture problems should be a priority to avoid ending up with more expensive problems in the future. Also, when checking your basement, you'll want to note areas where water drains poorly. Seal cracks and holes in the foundation's exterior and ensure that gutters work correctly.
2. Walls Are Buckling or Leaning, and Window or Doors Won't Close Correctly
If your foundation walls bend or buckle, they may have a weak spot. A couple of small cracks in the foundation don't necessarily mean that you have a problem, but if the cracks are large or getting more extensive, you'll want to pay for a professional inspection. The same goes for doors and windows that don't close properly because of foundation problems. When looking at the exterior of your home, you'll also want to keep an eye out for signs that the foundation is sinking into the ground. Sometimes this will be noticeable only when you look closely, but the sinking is evident other times.
3. Crumbling and Chipping Concrete
If the Concrete on your foundation is crumbling or chipping, it may be a sign that you have loose or shifting soil under the Concrete. If you find cracks in your foundation and live in an area with lots of rain and snow, contact a professional to help you decide what foundation repair is needed.
4. Cracks, Fissures, and Ruptures
Check the exterior walls and foundation for any cracks, fissures, or ruptures that may indicate shifting of the foundation or movement in the surrounding earth. If you are in an area where earthquakes are common, noticing any cracks will be especially important. These flaws must be addressed carefully because they can cause more significant problems.
The visual checklist presented in this article shows you how to recognize potential foundation problems. If you are new to home inspection, identifying these signs can be helpful. Seeking professional advice from a home inspector is recommended for those looking to get their foundations checked. Park Range Construction provides foundation inspection and repair services. Contact us today for all your foundation needs.
Published on 3-7-2023