Signs of Foundation Problems in San Antonio
COMMON FOUNDATION PROBLEMS IN OLDER HOMES
Besides problems with plumbing and wiring, older homes can have some serious foundation problems. Look for these common signs of foundation problems in San Antonio homes:
CRACKS
Take a good look at the foundation for cracks. Small cracks are fairly common and would be the same case in an older home. But large, deep cracks can be an indication there is a bigger problem. Walk around the entire house and take a close look. Peek in behind plants and shrubs that could be hiding cracks on the exterior of the house foundation. Look at gaps between foundation and the driveway and/or sidewalks that could indicate foundation movement or damage.
EXTERIOR CONCRETE STEPS & STAIRS
Small cracks can occur when the house settles, from the cold and heat causing the cement to expand and shrink, or moisture in the soil. Having them filled in is a good idea but the problem may be bigger than what you may think.
Check all areas for cracks, inside and out. Check the exterior stairs leading up to the house, cracks in the walls, floors and ceiling in the basement, cracks or shifting bricks in the fireplace and chimney.
SAGGING FLOORS
If there are noticeable dips, pockets, or areas of the floors sagging, there could be a serious problem. Check underneath for the support beams and make sure there is no stress or warping with them.
Sagging or dips in the floor are one of the best indications there could be a concern with the foundation. It can also be caused by something heavy sitting in the same place for a long period of time, like a heavy appliance, from moisture or just the beans and floorboards wearing out. That’s why you need to check underneath, to make sure it isn’t the foundation.
GAPS IN WINDOW AND DOOR FRAMES
When the foundation slips or sinks on one side, it will cause the door and window frames to pull away. Check over the doors and window, along the sides, and underneath for large gaps that may have occurred.
Also, if doors don’t close properly, fit into the frame, swing-open, or hang on a tilt, this could be a problem. The same for the windows, if they don’t work properly like they don’t slide easily or are stuck, then it could be a sign there is a bigger problem.
INTERIOR STAIRS
If there is more than one level to the home, check the staircases. Look for uneven stairs, gaps, sagging, and areas where they may have pulled away from the wall. Old wooden stairs or even carpeted stairs can get worn down and shift, but large gaps or sloping stairs could be an indication there is damage to the foundation.
AREAS THAT ARE DAMP
Check for damp areas on the walls, the ceiling, the floors, and particularly in lower levels of homes. Even if there are no visible cracks or damage, there could be some damage behind damp areas or areas that look like they used to be damp.
Check in crawl spaces for areas that are or have been damp and examine for damage. There could be cracks, gaps, or wet areas that have gone unnoticed. Foundation experts are trained to get into seemingly impossible areas to inspect for foundation damage.
CALL AN EXPERT
Before you buy, have the home checked out by the professsional, reputable foundation repair experts at San Antonio Foundation Repair. We offer free estimates, call today!
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