5 Ways to Identify a House With Foundation Issues
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Purchasing a home is exhilarating, but it isn't without its fair share of stressors. For many homeowners, realizing post-move-in that there are signs of foundation problems can be the biggest nightmare of all. Learning how to spot the warning signs of a bad foundation is key to sidestepping pricey repairs and structural instability. So, before you commit, equip yourself with the knowledge needed to safeguard both your investment and your peace of mind.
To navigate this learning curve, we connected with Bob Brown, a certified Foundation Repair Specialist and author of the recently published Foundation Repair Secrets: Learn How to Protect Yourself and Save Thousands. As we review these telltale signs, keep in mind that none of these warning signs, especially in a single instance, can mean much, according to Brown. However, a grouping of them in a pattern will tell you something is happening. Here are the top five things he wants you to look for:
1. Cracks
"Look for cracks in walls both inside and on exterior walls, including drywall, stucco and brick," recommends Brown. "Cracks in stucco are a less reliable sign, because it is also subject to thermal cracking. It is very difficult to identify exterior signs of stress in a house with siding."
2. Inoperable Doors and Windows
Open and close all the doors and windows when you're looking for a home. "You might notice that they don't work quite right. "You might notice that they're sticky, and maybe even visibly out of square," shares Brown. The doors might be obvious, but don't forget to check the windows. "Quite often, people will shave the doors so that they operate properly to cover up signs of stress, but they often miss the windows frames."
3. Uneven Floors
"If the floors are noticeably out of level in some areas, that could be a red flag for structural issues," warns Brown. Bring a rubber ball or marble with you when you look at homes. Test for level on solid surfaces, such as tile and hardwood floors.
4. Cracks in the Floors
When it comes to identifying potential foundation issues, keep an eye out for hairline cracks in the tile or mortar. "You might also notice subtle shifts beneath wall-to-wall carpeting," shares Brown. Moreover, in look at the basement walls and floor and check for cracks or dislocations.
5. Regional Soil or Weather Issues
"Know the area you are dealing with," stresses Brown. "Some areas are considerably more problematic than others. In some parts of Dallas or Houston, for example, it’s only a matter of time before every house has problems. Some parts of Phoenix are problematic, and some parts are not. Knowing which are problematic can help you keep an eye out for problems." Working with a local home inspector/foundation expert and a forensic engineer who is thoroughly knowledgeable about structural damage in the area will be best able to help you learn more about possible issues with water damage, expansive clay soil, and freeze/thaw cycles.
Related: How Does the Weather Affect Your Home’s Foundation?
How can drainage issues cause major issues for a home's foundation?
Drainage issues create moisture buildup around a building's foundation. When excess moisture isn't diverted, it can accumulate in the soil surrounding the home, leading to soil erosion, expansion, contraction, and even water intrusion that can cause musty smells and mold in a crawl space. This constant shifting puts pressure on the foundation, ultimately causing both vertical and horizontal cracks over time. Additionally, prolonged exposure to moisture can weaken the foundation's structural integrity, leading to
Do the warning signs present for homes with slab foundations?
Yes, the same signs of foundation issues apply to homes built on a slab foundation. Severe foundation cracks can cause exterior cracks in brick mortar, uneven floors, or gaps caused by foundation settlement with visible damage between the slab and walls or around door and window frames.
