For most people, a home is the most valuable asset they possess. Therefore, it is essential to make sure that your home is not in distress. Remember, your foundation is what holds your home in place. It is crucial to ensure that your foundation is exempt from any major flaws and faults. So what is the difference between foundation problems vs. settling?
With proper maintenance and care, your foundation can last for generations. Without a proper foundation, various structural problems can plague your home, leading to costly repair.
Foundation Problems vs. Settling
Usually, home foundation construction requires poured concrete. Over time, the concrete may begin cracking as a result of settling. Although settling is a common phenomenon, over time, settling can cause foundation problems. Settling is typically due to weather or surrounding soil.
What Is Foundation Settling?
Settling is a common term used to describe the gradual sinking of the house over time. Settling occurs when the soil beneath the foundation begins to shift. Generally, it’s not a severe problem. Most settling occurs a few years after construction. However, too much of settling can be worrisome.
The gradual movement of the soil beneath the home causes foundation settling. Therefore, it makes sense to analyze the surrounding soil type.
Besides, the levels of moisture determine the expansion and contraction of the soil. Soil expansion typically affects the foundations of many homes.
Foundation settling can cause many problems. Some of the most common issues are water intrusion, jammed windows and doors, cracking or masonry work, etc. Immediate action can significantly lower the resulting damage from foundation settling.
What Are Foundation Problems?
Foundation problems occur when foundation settling becomes extreme. Foundation issues, in most cases, lead to a compromise of the building affected. In most cases, these issues lead to a costly repair, involving demolition and reconstruction.
Sagging, bowing, or dipping floors may be indicators of problematic foundation. Gaps around exterior doors or window frames may signal serious foundation problems as well. Sometimes, foundation upheaval can cause your home to be unsafe to inhabit. Foundation fractures such as cracks in walls or floors could signal a potentially dangerous foundation problem, including settlement cracks.
Whatsoever the causes, be it minor foundation problems vs. settling, the experts at Kent Foundation Repair will go deep into the root of the issues and find the potential causes. Call today for a free estimate.
