Most people focus on improving their homes above the surface, but they never seem to look below. It might be because homeowners don’t usually suspect something can go wrong with the foundation of their house.
However, it can be important to look out for signs of problems with the foundation. Otherwise, you might have a big issue to deal with if you don’t look after the smaller ones.
To help you out, here are a few signs that your home’s foundation needs repairs.
Cracks in the Wall or Floor
If you see a crack in your wall, you shouldn’t instantly start worrying. Mostly, the crack might be in the flooring or the paint on the walls. These hairline cracks can be easily fixed most of the time, and won’t give you much trouble.
However, sometimes cracks can be quite dangerous especially if they are wide and horizontal or it seems like the crack gets bigger as it goes. These could be signs of damage to the foundation. If you do see any concerning cracks on the wall or the floor, then you should call a foundation repair service.
Cracked Chimney
If you have a fireplace in your house with a chimney, you should inspect it to make sure it is in good condition. That’s because an unleveled or unbalanced foundation can cause cracks and damage to the chimney.
The easiest way to check the chimney, instead of popping your head in the fireplace, you can look at the exterior of your home to see if there is any space between the chimney and the rest of your house.
Static Structure Separating From the Wall
Static structures in your home are the cabinets, counters, closets, and other structures that stand still and are attached to the walls. Nothing other than unscrewing them from the wall or breaking them down should separate them from the wall.
However, foundation problems can lead to unleveled walls and floors. If that happens, the static structures can be thrown off and separated from the walls or floors. Since the de-leveling might be hard to notice, you can easily see the structures detaching.
Gaps between the Walls and the Windows
There might be plenty of insulation and other materials between the windows and the walls. Sometimes, your windows might get damaged or the insulation becomes less effective and it can cause a space between your walls and windows. In that case, you don’t have to worry about the foundation.
However, sometimes a shifting foundation can be the cause for the gap between your windows and walls. It won’t happen immediately enough for you to notice. The gap usually takes a long time to form and it can create space for moisture and insects to enter the house as well.
Unpleasant Scents in the Basement
Since the basements are not usually well kept, they can often end up having an unusual smell. Probably something in your storage or someone forgot a sandwich they were having that one time. But, unpleasant smells can also indicate mildew. It forms when moisture gets in through minor cracks in the foundation. While cracks that small aren’t cause for concern, having too much moisture can rot the beams, and having rotting beams in the foundation is a massive problem.