Damp basements are one of the more common foundation problems that people experience in their homes.
Yet they are far from the only foundation issues that can affect a home and result in a need for foundation repairs.
What Are Symptoms of Foundation Problems?
Homeowners should take note below of some common symptoms of foundation problems that can occur and the type of repair that may be necessary to correct them.
- Cracks and Fractures - While hairline cracks in concrete or block foundations can be normal as newer homes settle shortly after being built, red flags that foundation problems exist are the presence of larger cracks and fractures or cracks appearing later in the life of the home.
- Foundation Settling or Upheaval - A foundation that experiences uneven settling over time or even upheaval when one end of the foundation pushes upward requires immediate inspection by a foundation expert.
- Sticky Doors and Windows - Doors and windows that bond or do not open and close correctly are a common symptom of foundation issues that have caused a shift in the whole structure of the home that has affected the square of the door and window frames.
- Gaps Around Door and Window Frames - Similarly, those same shifts can result in there being gaps between the door and window frames that separate them from the wall when foundation repairs due to uneven settling become necessary.
- Uneven Floors - Uneven floors that list to one side of the house or floors that sag in the middle are yet another symptom of structural problems that might be due to foundation issues.
- Damp or Leaky Basements and Crawl Spaces - Possibly the most common symptoms of problems that require some kind of foundation repair are dampness in the basement or crawlspace or even actual water leaks.
How Can These Problems Be Fixed With Foundations?
With these many symptoms suggesting different foundation problems, what can be done to remedy them?
That depends on an expert inspection and diagnosis to determine what is causing the issue.
Leaks and dampness due to cracking might be fixed with a simple coating of interior waterproofing or could require a more extensive repair like a sump pump and drain system or exterior drainage put in.
Foundation shifting or upheaval causing major cracks or generally unbalancing the home might need foundation repair support using piers or other means of stabilization both outside and inside.
Adding All This Up
Because there are many different techniques that can be used to correct each of these problems, the best foundation repair is often to hire a well known and experienced foundation repair expert and have them take a look at the problem.
With a correct diagnosis of current foundation issues, the best solution can be planned and implemented.