Identify Foundation Settlement Before It's Too Late!

Promptly addressing any indications of foundation issues is crucial to prevent the problem from worsening and becoming more costly. After all, the foundation is responsible for supporting your entire house!

So, how can you identify early signs of foundation problems?

Let's start outside. Take a stroll around your house and inspect the foundation walls for any stair-step cracking. If you had previously noticed cracks and observe that they have widened since your last assessment, it indicates outward rotation of the wall. Next, examine your doors and windows. Are they misaligned or separating from the framing? Do you spot cracks extending from the corners of doors or windows? Is there newly applied caulking around windows or doors, possibly a quick fix attempted by previous homeowners to address the cracks?

Now, cast your gaze upwards. How does your chimney appear? Is it separating from the rest of the house? A leaning chimney is one of the most prevalent signs of foundation settlement, commonly observed in older homes.

Now, let's venture inside your home. Do you experience any difficulty with doors sticking as you move from room to room? Have you previously had to plane them or replace locking mechanisms? Proceeding upstairs, pay close attention to the walls, particularly around the windows, as drywall cracks often manifest there. Be vigilant for any cracks around drywall seams, corners of doors, or buckling drywall tape. If you notice such issues, it is advisable to have your foundation professionally inspected.

Now, why is all this happening to your house, you may wonder?

The majority of houses in Ohio are situated on soil, with wet clay being a common component. Clay expands when saturated with water and contracts when the soil lacks moisture. During drought periods, the soil's dryness causes the clay to shrink, creating voids where your home can settle.

If you recognize any of the signs mentioned above, there's no need to panic! MidState Basement Systems offers a range of tailored solutions to address your unique situation. Our team is equipped to assist you in mitigating foundation issues and ensuring the stability of your home.