10 Signs of Foundation Problems

Darren Driscoll • Apr 02, 2013

signs of foundation problemsWe’ve spent a lot of time talking about how gutters help you protect your foundations, but we’ve never taken the time to talk about the different signs of foundation problems in your home. Foundation problems are very serious, and it’s a good idea to understand how to notice them so that you can have them addressed right away.

It’s especially good to acquaint yourself with this list if you’re buying a home for the first time. Some homeowners opt to sell their homes when they notice foundation problems rather than handling the expensive repairs themselves.

Sure, you’ll have a home inspector come look at the home of your dreams eventually, but if you know the signs of foundation problems you’ll never get that far. You’ll simply move on to the next home before putting down your earnest money and paying the inspector.

Some of the signs of foundation problems are similar to the signs of a sinkhole. This is not surprising since they are both signs of problems underneath your home.

If you’re not sure which you are dealing with it’s best to just call someone out to have a look at your home. An engineer can help you tell the difference. Don’t assume one or the other. You want to be accurate when dealing with your insurance company since this could affect the way the claim is handled.

The signs are:

  1. Doors and windows that are difficult to close.
  2. Floors that slope, or that separate from the walls.
  3. Nails which “pop” out of your walls.
  4. Cracks in your sheetrock.
  5. Walls that bend, buckle, or warp.
  6. A roof that leaks, even if it’s brand new.
  7. If your home is made of brick: diagonal cracks in the brick and mortar.
  8. Cracks in the exposed concrete at the base of the home.
  9. Your crown molding is separating or cracking, especially if the cracks extend into the ceiling.
  10. There are significant cracks in your floor.

These foundation problems will not always be caused by issues with your gutters. There are other things that can cause foundation problems, including the expansion of tree roots that are planted too close to your home.

There are a few sites on the internet which encourage you to do “diy foundation repair.” This is a terrible idea.

Unless you are a professional foundation contractor yourself you should always get help with this kind of problem. A damaged foundation can create an unsafe home, and if you don’t know what you’re doing you will just give yourself a false sense of security. Contact your insurance company and do whatever it takes to get the problem fixed.

Rain Control Gutters has been a trusted gutter contractor serving St. Petersburg, Largo, Clearwater, and the rest of the Tampa Bay metro area for over 35 years. We help homeowners protect their homes by installing seamless aluminum gutters to prevent water damage to major structures like home foundations. Call us today for a free estimate.

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