Most home foundations will experience some degree of shifting with age.
A shifting foundation is something most homes will experience as they age. There are several reasons for a shifting foundation, and some are more difficult or costly to fix than others. Water pressure is among the most common causes, particularly in cold regions with freeze and thaw cycles. Whatever the cause of the shift, it must be addressed as soon as possible to prevent serious, often costly, consequences. Does this Spark an idea?
Causes of Shifting
Among the most common causes of foundation problems is related to soil moisture. It is essential that the soil surrounding the foundation is kept evenly moist and has proper drainage. Tree roots are also a serious issue, and occasionally require root barriers to prevent problems. If a problem with the foundation is left unchecked, the severity of the damage will increase dramatically -- along with the cost of repairs and the time it takes to complete them. It is essential to thoroughly inspect a foundation prior to purchasing a home and run routine checks for cracks and other signs of foundation trouble. The sooner the problem is addressed, the easier it is to fix.
Flooring Problems
Uneven flooring is among the first symptoms of a foundation problem. It often starts small and gets worse with time. Flooring issues will appear in several ways, usually starting with cracks and pops before progressing to sagging as much as a few inches. In these later stages repairs become critical and often costly. A professional is usually required to fix the foundation, plus the floor must usually be pulled up and replaced.
Door and Window Problems
Most homes will experience some difficulty with doors and windows, particularly in areas with high humidity. Look for doors or windows that stick, don't latch or won't stay closed. If left unchecked, the doors, windows and frames will need to be replaced.
Cracks
Most concrete foundations will experience some minor cracks that will not affect the home's structural integrity. As the foundation shifts, these cracks become larger and deeper, and will eventually be large enough to permit water into the home. Cracks that are 1/16 inch or less are treated with a thorough coat of concrete waterproofing paint, which costs approximately $25 per gallon, according to houselogic.com. If the crack returns, it is usually indicative of excessive water pressure on the foundation. Stairstep cracks, bulging or cracks more than 1/4-inch wide must be dealt with immediately.
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