Top 10 Things to Check for Foundation Issues on Your Home This Fall

Fall is a season of change. As the trees shed their leaves and the temperature drops, homeowners should take this transitional period as a reminder to inspect their home’s foundation. Before winter sets in, with its additional challenges and risks, ensuring that your foundation is secure can save you both time and money. Here’s a list of the top 10 things you should check for foundation issues this fall:

1. Visible Cracks: Whether in the walls, floor, or the foundation itself, cracks can indicate settling or movement in the foundation. Even small fissures can grow over time, so address them promptly.
2. Uneven or Sloping Floors: If you notice that your floor has started sloping or feels uneven underfoot, this could be a sign of foundational issues.
3. Doors and Windows that Stick: If doors and windows become difficult to open or close, it may be because the foundation has shifted, causing misalignment.
4. Gaps between the Wall and Floor or Ceiling: A gap can indicate that the house is settling in an uneven manner or that the foundation is moving.
5. Bowing Walls: Walls that appear to be leaning inwards or outwards can be a sign of foundational pressure or shifting.
6. Moisture in the Basement or Crawl Space: Excessive moisture can lead to foundation erosion, mold growth, and other structural issues.
7. Deteriorating Exterior Concrete: Look for chipping, flaking, or crumbling in exterior foundation walls.
8. Upwardly Expanding Soil: Also known as “heaving”, this can cause cracks and other structural damage to your home.
9. Sinking or Settling: If one part of your home seems to be sinking or settling more than others, it’s time to call a professional.
10. Trees Planted Too Close: Tree roots can extend beneath your home, causing foundational upheaval or other disturbances.

Why Have Your Foundation Inspected Before Winter?

Winter brings with it a host of challenges for any home foundation:

• Freezing and Thawing: The freeze-thaw cycle can exacerbate existing cracks, making them wider and deeper as water seeps in, freezes, and then expands.
• Increased Moisture: Snow and ice, when melted, result in more water in the soil. This can lead to foundation erosion or increased pressure on basement walls.
• Weight of Snow: A heavy snow accumulation can add weight to the structure, stressing a foundation that may already be compromised.
• Hidden Issues: Snow can obscure visible signs of foundation damage, making springtime discoveries more severe and costly.

In essence, ensuring your foundation is in good shape before winter can save you from exacerbated damage that the colder months can bring. Regular inspections and addressing minor issues early can save significant time and money in the long run.

Remember, your home’s foundation is its most crucial structural element. Don’t wait for major issues to arise. This fall, prioritize an inspection and ensure your home stands firm against the challenges of winter. Should you have concerns or see any signs of potential issues, don’t hesitate to contact the experts at Academy House Leveling. We’re here to help ensure your home’s stability and safety, no matter the season.