Every homeowner should perform regular inspections for foundation problems in Pensacola home. Taking just a few hours at most, routine vigilance can help save on repairs by detecting issues early. If you are uncertain what to look for, the following guide can help.
Inside Examination
Your inspection should begin inside the home, where you should look for signs of an uneven or unsupported foundation. These include:
• Doors and windows that do not close/open properly.
• Cracks in the walls, especially along corners of window/door frame openings and ceiling joints.
• Cracks in the linoleum or tiles that sit over concrete flooring.
• Bulges, dips, or soft spots in any section of flooring.
• In basements, the walls should be straight, at a level 90 degree angle from the floor and should register even on a level. If there is any sort of slant, bulge, or large crack in the walls you may have issues.
• In the flooring of basements and concrete floors (such as in garages), hairline cracks are normal, however, anything larger is not.
Outside and Underneath
Once you are done inside, you should inspect the exterior for signs as well. These include:
• House is appearing uneven.
• Visible cracks in the foundation that exceed ¼”.
• Cracks along sections that are stepped, or l-shaped, in particular if it small to hairline are not usually something to worry over, but should be sealed to prevent moisture getting into the home, which could cause serious damage over time.
• The biggest concern to look for is cracks running horizontally, which can be a serious indication of damage.
• If you home does not have a concrete slab foundation, then you will be inspecting inside the crawlspace. You should look for any signs of excessive moisture pooling, water damage, and weakening of the supports. All the support beams should be straight and planted inside solid bases. Bulging and slanted supports can mean a lack of support beneath them or deterioration.
What to Do if You Find or Suspect Problems
If you find one or more serious signs of potential foundation problems, you should Visit Ram Jack Solid Foundations. They can provide a free estimate for any repairs you may need, as well as inform you of any problems you may not have been able to recognize. For homes with a crawlspace, they can also offer encapsulation services to help seal up the area and prevent potential issues.
Never let a problem in your foundation go unattended. If you suspect you may have foundation problems in your Pensacola home, contact Ram Jack Solid Foundations today.