Foundation Solutions » Why Foundations Fail » Improper Support

Improper Support

Improper Support in a Foundation Leads to Many Structural Problems The foundation of a home is its main support system.

Every part of the home is built upon the foundation. When the foundation has problems, the house has problems. That is why identifying and repairing foundation problems as soon as possible are important.

The last thing you want is problems from your foundation to spread throughout your home.

This only means more money for repairs and more time spent making those repairs.

One of the biggest issues with foundations is improper support. This usually occurs as the soil under the foundation settles and shifts. When the soil changes, the foundation loses its support system.

This leads to the foundation becoming uneven or cracked, which then provides improper support for a home. When a foundation is not supporting the home properly a range of problems will occur.

It is very important that you identify these problems as soon as possible. Some things you can look for are visible cracks, uneven floors or walls and uneven beams.

Visible Cracks

One of the most alarming signs that something is wrong with the foundation of a home is visible cracks in walls. These cracks will usually become noticeable first in the basement or lower level of a home. If you notice cracks in a wall then you should contact a professional right away. Wall cracks are not normal.

These cracks occur because the foundation shifted and the walls are no longer being supported on a level surface. This creates tension on the wall structure and will cause the wall to crack or break due to this tension. Cracks can be deceiving, though. Some cracks are cosmetic issues.

That is why you need to have a professional look at the situation and do a complete analysis. A professional will be able to determine the extent of the cracking and the cause.

Uneven Floors or Walls

Another sign you may see when your foundation is going bad is uneven flooring or walls. This may be obvious as you walk across and can feel the unevenness. You may also notice furniture is slanting. In severe cases you will even see spaces between the walls and floor or the walls and the ceiling where they are pulling apart or moving apart.

Everything in your home should be fit together tightly. Cracks or separation is not normal and something that requires a professional inspection.

Uneven Beams

If you have exposed beams in your home, either in ceilings or in the basement, then you can check beams for early signs that something is wrong.

Beams should be flush against the ceiling. They should not be bowed or sag in any way. Beams are a major support within the home and when they start to fail, you have a very dangerous situation. Failing beams can be a direct result of a failing foundation, so get a professional to inspect the situation.

When your foundation is providing improper support to your home, you will start to see signs that something is wrong. These little things all add up.

Eventually your whole home will be weakened by the fact that the foundation is failing. You do not want to lose your home because you failed to pay attention to the warning signs.

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