An uneven foundation can result in some unusual symptoms inside your house. Depending on what you have done to cause the foundation to become uneven, you could end up with cracks on walls or ceilings, plumbing problems that create slow drainage or backups, and door jams. You need to be able to identify when your house’s foundation could be uneven so you can fix it before the problems become too expensive.
Foundation problems have several possible causes. Poor construction, expansive soil, erosion, and invasive tree roots can all cause foundation problems. Once the problem is identified and diagnosed by your local building inspector, you’ll need to repair and strengthen the foundation, so your home is safe from structural damage.
The common causes of foundation issue
It’s not uncommon for a home to settle. This can happen over the years due to changes in temperature and moisture. However, sometimes the reason for settling has little to do with age. There are other reasons for this, including poor installation and backfilling of soil around the foundation.
Signs You May Need House Levelling
Home foundations settle over time because they are constantly exposed to the elements. Whether it’s an unassuming rainy day or earthquake, homes will be exposed to some sort of force that leads to foundation settling. It’s typically a gradual process and requires proactive action as it progresses. Here are five indicators that it’s time to level your home.
Sloping Floors
If you have sloping floors, you have a problem. Sloping and bowed floors are a dead giveaway your home is unlevel. Sloping floors can result in vertigo, trip hazards, and the floor pulling away from the wall.
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Visible cracks in the walls
One of the most common signs that a house has foundation damage is visible cracks in the outer walls. If you live in an old brick home and see cracks in the brickwork, it might be a sign that your foundation isn’t stable.
Sticking doors and windows
If these doors and windows are rooms in your home, you may notice that the space between them is uneven or that things inside one room have shifted relative to another. Is your foundation shifting? You’ll know if it’s from foundation settling when your windows and doors stick or don’t line up correctly.
Bowing basement walls
Bowed basement walls can develop for a variety of reasons. The foundation could be settling or shifting for a number of reasons, and it’s important to determine the cause of your bowed walls before you make any permanent changes.
Conclusion
While it is true that foundation repair methods involve a scientific process and many tools, some home owners like to give it a try on their own. While this might be possible, it is always advisable to let the professionals do the job. There are some things you can do yourself, but foundation repair isn’t one of them. If you have house levelling problems in Melbourne, call a foundation repair specialist or a structural engineer who can assess your home and point you toward the best solution for your situation.