Why Foundational Repairs are Imperative

When a foundation warps, it leads to door frames changing.

The foundation is one of the most essential parts of a home, as a weak foundation causes other damage and can put residents in danger. Resolving issues in the foundation is urgent but can also come at a cost. Living with a small crack in the wall may not seem alarming, but these cracks quickly worsen and become more expensive to repair. Consider what foundational damage looks like to know when to call a professional for a repair.

When foundational repair is needed

The most obvious sign of a foundation problem is one or more cracks running through the floor. However, hairline cracks can also be caused by regular seasonal temperature changes. These are known as seasonal settlement cracks and aren’t of much concern. However, deep cracks that sink into the ground indicate a more severe structural issue. When in doubt, call a professional to diagnose the issue; foundational issues are severe and require immediate attention.

Other signs of foundational damage might not be as apparent as a floor crack. An uneven floor, cracked walls, and a tilted chimney are all signs of foundation problems. If any or all of these are present, foundation repairs are likely necessary. Consider the following common signs of structural damage to a foundation to be able to identify and treat them swiftly.

Visible displacement in expansion joints

Expansion joints allow buildings to expand safely in warm weather. Still, if large spaces start to form between the joints, this could be a sign of a foundational issue that must be addressed immediately so that the joints can function properly and avoid further damage.

Frieze-board separation

Freeze boards help prevent moisture buildup under the siding of a house and shouldn't be widely separated. The home's foundation is likely weak or damaged if a rift forms between them near the top.

Doors and door frame shapes

When a foundation warps, it leads to door frames changing. If a door becomes more challenging to close or no longer fits the frames, it's likely due to a foundation problem.

Water bill inconsistencies

This method only applies to areas that have an active meter. If there is a significant increase in the water bill, foundation movement could impact the pipes. The pressure is likely creating leaks within the water supply.

A cost-benefit analysis

Foundation repairs vary depending on the extent and complexity of the job. However, dealing with the problem sooner rather than later saves on cost, as foundational damage worsens over time. As more stresses are imparted on the already shaky foundation, this pressure can lead to further warping. When repairs are done, this excess damage increases the service's cost.

If doubtful, weigh the cost of the repair against the resale value. A house with a damaged foundation sells for less on the market. While some buyers specifically look for homes with issues like these to buy, financing is another issue. Many mortgage and loan companies refuse to fund property purchases with apparent structural damage, regardless of what the buyers want. This leaves the home stuck on the market and unable to move towards a purchase.

The best long-term solution

Short-term fixes for foundation problems create more problems than they solve. It may seem like a simple DIY job to cover over the crack with a bit of putty or cement, but this fixes the symptom rather than the problem. Foundation issues are structural and deal with the core of the construction, so they require expert input to find the problem and repair it. It’s inadvisable to solve these issues independently, as the most the average homeowner can do is make cosmetic patches to hide the symptoms. However, when it comes time to sell, most buyers ask for an inspection before putting money down, bringing forth the issues that have likely only worsened with time. Do not let a simple problem spiral out of control; contact an expert repair company when symptoms of foundation problems are detected.

Accurate Builders of the Chesapeake provide foundation, basement, and crawlspace installation and repair for the greater Baltimore area homeowners.