When there is an issue with your home’s foundation, it can be challenging to identify just how bad the damage might be, or even if there is an issue at all. Foundation issues can often mimic benign conditions when they first start showing up. For example, bricks crack as a regular part of wear and tear. The little basement crack in the wall could be nothing. Or it could be a sign that the foundation is sinking into the earth. Here are some external warning signs that your foundation has a problem.
Exterior Cracks
Small cracks in the exterior walls are usually not a big problem. However, larger exterior cracks with a zigzag pattern could indicate an issue with the foundation. Cracked bricks or bricks that protrude from the wall should also be evaluated.
A Wall Pulling Away from the House
If you see that your exterior wall is pulling away from the rest of your home, you’re looking at a serious red flag of a foundation issue. If the problem is not addressed promptly, the wall could collapse. This dangerous situation can lead to grave structural damage and even possibly injure you and the rest of the home’s occupants. A foundation repair company, someone like Atlas Master Co, should be contacted immediately.
Corner Pop
This is when the outside corner of a foundation has a significant crack or completely separates from the foundation. Corner pop is typically a sign of a more considerable foundation problem. However, it could also result from imposing expansion forces on the concrete and masonry of a brick home, which does not always indicate a foundation issue. The foundation will need to be examined by a professional to make an end determination.
Foundation Settling or Sinking
Does your home appear to be sinking? You may see that one side of your house sits lower than the other. Your foundation may need to be lifted and may require the installation of exterior foundation piers. These will be located around the perimeter of the foundation to raise it.
You may notice a foundation upheaval. Heaving typically affects the perimeter of a concrete slab foundation. However, the impact is felt in the doorways, hallways, and other areas. Moisture generated by heavy rains or plumbing problems is the primary cause of upheavals. In these situations, you will require the assistance of a slab foundation repair service.
If you observe something unusual happening with your foundation, you want the situation to be investigated further. Especially if it means the difference between your house standing properly and being torn apart. An evaluation often indicates that you have nothing to worry about. However, if there is a problem, you want to catch it as soon as possible in order to minimize the damage it could cause.
