Building Foundation Problems

As we progress in society, we are learning more all the time how to efficiently build homes and where to build them. But this hasn't always been the case, and even still we make mistakes and have foundation problems. While these mistakes are generally fixable, learning how to identify these problems before they cause irreparable damage is the key – as well as understanding how they can happen. Here are a few common problems that homeowners face; instances in which it may be time to hire a professional:



Seawalls: Starting off with the most obvious one on the list, seawalls can be a delicate environmental problem for your home. Even if your home isn't build directly on the wall, the cracking of it can have far-reaching effects. Once the wall starts to cave even a little, there is no protection from the erosion of the sea to begin its thrashing of the land behind it. The seawall must be repaired as soon as possible in order to ensure your safety in your home.



Crawl Spaces: Many times, crawl spaces can develop small cracks that expand and contract, depending on the temperature outside. When it rains – or doesn't rain – they can grow exponentially. The crawl spaces often sit on soil that swells as well, causing more damage and [eventual] collapse of the space. While many of us don't pay much attention to our crawl spaces – as many of them were already in the house when we purchased it – it is crucial to pay attention to them, and may be wise to have an expert take a look at its structural health.



Rain Gutters: Typically the most common cause of building foundation problems – moisture or lack thereof – rain gutters and drains can clog, causing erosion in the soil around foundations. Pay attention to where your drainage system is dumping the water, and make sure it's away from the foundation. Similarly, if you live in a dry climate, as you water your lawn, water the soil near the foundation as well, ensuring the ground's health.



Drywall Cracks: Walls "move" over time, and proof of this can usually be found around windows and door frames. As the drywall moves, so does the framing – but not always in the same direction. This is a phenomenon not unlike the science behind earthquakes, although clearly not as horrific – and is readily fixable if the right professional is hired to inspect and repair.



These are a few signs to look for, as well as being some of the most common problems home and business owners face as the years take their toll on their structures. Take a close look at your foundation, and if you're not sure if there's real or just surface damage, calling a professional to inspect may be the safest route to take.



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