Foundation repair is something that every homeowner dreads having to deal with simply because it is such a big deal. After all, your foundation is what holds up and supports your entire home. If the integrity of your foundation is compromised, that means that everything you call ‘home’ is being affected.
But it’s bigger than that. You and your family have built a life in your home. Each room has a special memory attached to it. In many ways, you compare all other homes to your own as though it were the greatest “home worthiness” litmus test. The last thing you ever want to deal with as a homeowner is the possibility that there could be some serious issues right under your feet.
Although thinking in this manner can be a real bummer, it just may be the right way of thinking to get you involved in the assessment of your home’s foundation right now. Even if you’re pretty sure everything is OK, you still want to do your best to stay ahead of the game.
So, exactly when should you call an expert about foundation repair in your home? Here are a few tips:
Cracks in Drywall – Perhaps the most common issues homeowners see, cracks in your drywall means that your home is shifting. Be sure to look in common areas near door frames, as well as areas where walls meet the ceiling. In other words, look everywhere.
Doors and Windows Are Having Issues – Doors can stick, but it’s not just room doors. How well is your kitchen cabinetry holding up? Are there any doors getting harder to open or close?
Floors Are Uneven and Creaking – If you’ve ever tossed a ball to your dog and noticed it rolls in certain directions much more than others, you’re looking at some uneven areas. If you have tile, it can be greatly affected by foundation issues, so always look for any cracking or bumpy areas. You may also notice creaking in your floor. Unevenness in your floorboards is a sign you should note.
Roof Issues – Few people would think that a roof would have issues directly related to the foundation, but if the fireplace is having issues with masonry being compromised, it could mean that your foundation is moving a lot. Two other places to check are bracing for satellite dishes and flashing around roof penetrations.
Some out there might argue that any one of these particular issues is not a full-fledged reason to have foundation repair in your home. While each of these issues, on its own, may not constitute a need for repairs, its presence is enough to let you know that something is brewing.
Every home is different, and depending on the weather in your area, as well as the make-up of your soil, your foundation may show problems that others will not see. This is why home maintenance gurus always suggest homeowners take regular trips around their home to see if anything is amiss. This way, you can call a local, trusted, and experienced foundation repair company to handle things way before it becomes a critical situation.