How to Spot Foundation Issues in an Older Home (And What to Do About It)
When it comes to residential real estate, a home is generally classified as old if it was built more than 50 years ago. For these homeowners, it’s essential to know the warning signs of some of the most common foundation problems. Monitoring and taking action if you spot any issues can save you thousands of dollars before the problem causes any significant damage.
Why do older houses have issues with their foundation?
Although it can depend on where you live and the construction quality of your home, it’s likely that older houses can develop foundation problems at some point.
For example, homes built before 1940 don’t have as stable foundations as the modern concrete slabs we use today. But it’s not always about the quality of the construction. Erosion can be another culprit that causes the soil underneath your foundation to move over time. Tree roots can also pose a significant threat to your home’s foundations.
In Texas, particularly in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, extreme weather conditions can include extreme temperatures, droughts, tornadoes, and flash floods, which can all impact your home’s foundation. For example, ground swells can occur due to temperature and moisture. In addition, porous soil can expand and contract. A foundation can also sink into the ground if the soil is highly absorbent, affecting a home’s structural integrity.
Unfortunately, these issues aren’t easy to detect as a homeowner, but there are signs you can watch for to indicate potential problems.
What are the warning signs of foundation issues?
Being aware of any warning signs can help you avoid extensive and potentially hazardous damage. Here are the most common warning signs:
– Doors and windows sticking: If you’ve noticed your doors or windows often get stuck, it may signify a foundation shift in your home.
– Uneven floors: Uneven floors can point to a more significant foundation issue. If you notice any unevenness or bowing to your floors, it’s always good to check with a professional like Align Foundation Repair to rule out any foundational issues.
– Wall cracks: If you’ve noticed any cracks in your drywall, it can signify that your foundation is slowly shifting. Fissures can typically occur along the seams of your walls, where the drywall meets. If your home has large exterior cracks, it’s typically an issue with its foundation.
– Slab leak: Slab leaking refers to a pipe leak within or underneath your home’s foundation. It typically develops in your home’s incoming water line or the outgoing sewer line. While a few things can lead to a slab leak, it can result from a foundation that’s shifted or settled due to age. This can put stress on the pipes and make them more vulnerable to breakage.
– Cracked foundation: While small hairline cracks may not seem like a significant issue, it’s essential to get your foundation checked to be sure.
What to do if you notice issues?
If you love DIY projects, it can be tempting to consider solving any foundation repair issues yourself. But when it comes to the structural integrity of your home, it’s essential to get professional advice to keep your home safe.
While various solutions are available to address foundation issues, many can require specific machinery or engineering systems. Using Align Foundation Repair means we’ll come and assess your home and quickly identify whether it’s a foundation issue or something else causing your problems.
Foundation Repair – DFW
If you’re looking for foundation repair service, our local and experienced team at Align Foundation Repair can help. We provide free estimates and foundation checks in the DFW Metroplex area. Contact us to find out more, so you can get peace of mind about your home’s structural integrity.
