Footings and Foundations: Signs to Watch For

A certain amount of settling can be expected in every home, and not every crack in the wall spells disaster. So when is a crack just a crack and when is it a sign that your footings and foundations need to be checked? Only an expert can tell you for certain, but there are a few signs you can watch for that could indicate trouble. Serious symptoms include:

· Interior wall cracks, especially near the points where walls join ceilings or other walls or at the corners of windows or doors

· Cracks in brick exteriors

· Floors that sink or slope

· Bowing walls

· Doors that stick or squeak

If you observe one or more of these signs, you might want to examine the interior of your home. Move furniture and look under rugs to check for floor cracks, and check out the walls. Again, a crack doesn’t always spell trouble with your footings and foundations. If the crack runs in a straight line, it’s probably fine. However, if it spreads out like a spider web, that could be cause for concern.

The same rule applies to cracks in the exterior of your home. Uneven lines are far more concerning than those that run straight across or up and down. Also, don’t just assume that signs of problems with footings and foundations are limited to the first story. Two-story homes often show signs of damage on the second floor, so make sure to carefully inspect both levels.

If it turns out problems exist with the footings and foundations of your home, there are permanent solutions. Push piers and helical piers are two of the most common ways to counteract problems. Both of these methods transfer the weight of the structure from weak to competent soil levels. Not only do these methods address the signs of damage, they can possibly restore the structure to its original level.

If you have noticed any signs of damage and suspect you have a problem with your footings and foundations call Baird Foundation Repair at 210-534-4110.