Is Your Home Settling?
When you notice cracks in your walls or uneven floors, your first thought might be, “Is my house just settling?” It’s a common question among homeowners, and understanding the intricacies of home settling can help put your mind at ease. As a homeowner, it’s essential to know the signs of foundation settlement. Foundation settlement can occur in any type of foundation, including brick walls, poured concrete walls, block walls, and stone walls. Home settling is a common problem, particularly in older homes or homes built on unstable soil. If you suspect your home is experiencing foundation settlement, there are a few signs you should be aware of.
Signs of Foundation Settlement
Home settling is a natural process where a house gradually sinks into the ground as the soil beneath it shifts. This can be due to various factors, such as changes in moisture content, soil composition, or the weight of the structure itself. While some settling is normal in your home, excessive settling can lead to structural issues that need to be addressed.
Examples of home settling:
- Cracks in Walls and Floors: If you notice cracks in your walls or floors, it could be a sign of foundation settlement. Pay particular attention to cracks that appear in a stair-step pattern or those that are wider than a quarter-inch.
- Uneven Floors: If your floors are uneven, it could be due to home settling. You may notice sloping or sagging in certain areas of your home.
- Sticking Doors and Windows: If your doors or windows are sticking, it could be due to foundation settlement. This is because as the foundation shifts, it can cause the frames to become misaligned.
- Gaps Around Windows and Doors: If you notice gaps between your windows or doors and the frames, it could be due to home settling. This can also lead to drafts and pest infestations in your home.
- Cracks in the Exterior Walls: If you notice cracks in the exterior walls, it could be due to foundation settlement. Look for cracks in the brickwork or masonry.
These are just a few signs of home settling. If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to contact professionals so we can evaluate the situation and determine the best solutions and create a repair plan.
Solutions for Foundation Settlement
One of the most effective solutions for home settling is installing foundation piers. Our USA-based manufacturers design foundation piers to support the weight of the home and transfer it to a more stable soil layer. There are two main types of foundation piers: push piers and helical piers.
Push piers:
Our team drives the piers into the ground using hydraulic equipment until they reach a stable soil layer. After that, the crew transfers the weight of the home onto the piers, which provides additional support and stability.
Helical piers:
Our team installs the piers using a similar process. Instead of being driven into the ground, they are screwed into the soil. This provides additional stability, particularly in areas where the soil is soft or unstable.
Installing foundation piers can help extend the life of your foundation over time. By providing additional support and stability, they can prevent further settlement and reduce the risk of foundation damage. It’s important to note that foundation repair is not a DIY project. These repairs require specialized knowledge and equipment. Licensed and experienced foundation specialists should be the only professionals performing these integral repairs.
Conclusion: Next Steps
Understanding and addressing home settling is crucial to maintaining the safety and value of your beloved residence. At TFS, The Foundation Specialists, we are committed to helping you protect the place you call home. Our expert team is ready to provide the guidance and solutions you need to tackle any foundation, concrete, sloping floor, or wet basement issues.
We proudly offer free inspections to homeowners, ensuring you receive a thorough evaluation without any financial obligation. Our local customer care team is dedicated to providing personalized service and will match you with the best specialist to address your specific concerns. Whether it’s foundational adjustments, moisture control, or structural reinforcement, our professionals are equipped with the knowledge and tools to ensure your home’s stability and security.
Don’t wait until small issues become major problems. Reach out to us today and let TFS, The Foundation Specialists, help you maintain the integrity of your home. Together, we can ensure a safe and comfortable environment for you and your family for years to come.
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