The Difference Between Major and Minor Foundation Repair Issues

Your home is a major investment, and you want it to stand the test of time so you can get the most out of your money and continue to enjoy it for as long as possible. Homes and other buildings do settle over time, and a small degree of movement in the foundation beneath the structure is not unusual. However, when the foundation moves more than it should, it can lead to a host of issues.

Foundation issues can be one of the most devastating problems that a home can experience. However, the good news is that they can often be repaired if they are caught early, preventing catastrophic damage and keeping expenses to a minimum.

Foundation problems that are left unchecked can lead to problems such as settling, uneven floors and cracked walls. Eventually, they can cause a major structural problem that puts the entire home in jeopardy. Here is a look at the difference between major and minor foundation repair issues and what you should do when you encounter them.

Minor Foundation Problems

Normal foundation settling can cause a range of foundation problems that are generally considered to be minor. A minor foundation problem should not be a cause for panic as these tend to be more affordable to repair and less urgent. Nevertheless, they cannot be ignored. Many major foundation problems begin as minor ones, such as cracks in the foundation that allow pests and rodents to get inside the home.

Some examples of minor foundation problems include small cracks of up to 1/16 of an inch wide in the foundation or the home’s interior or exterior walls. Another minor foundation problem is a light amount of moisture, a few mold spots or some small signs of water.

When a door sticks at the top or bottom, it can be another sign of a minor foundation problem. When your home’s doors and windows are originally hung, they are square and placed perfectly. If you need to adjust your doors constantly or are struggling to operate your windows, it could mean that the foundation has moved.

Even the smallest hairline cracks do need to be addressed, particularly in a cold climate where freezing can be a concern. Water exerts significant force as it freezes, which means that when a tiny crack fills with water that then freezes, the foundation could be compromised.

Another way to check for uneven, minor settling in your home is by placing a golf ball or ping pong ball on your floor. if it rolls, it means that your floors are sloped. This is a strong sign that your foundation has been settling unevenly as floors are perfectly level when they are placed.

Major Foundation Problems

Many major foundation problems are easier to identify because they tend to be more extensive. These can also be significantly costlier to repair than minor problems and tend to require more immediate attention.

Large cracks in the house’s foundation or interior exterior walls measuring more than 1/16 of an inch are considered major foundation problems. Other major foundation problems include sloping or squeaking floors; basement walls that are bowing; sinking floors or walls; significant gaps between door and window frames; and countertops or cabinets that are separating from the wall. One of the more dangerous types of major foundation problems is excessive mold and water damage, which can put the health of your home’s inhabitants at risk.

Keep in mind that different types of cracks can indicate different types of problems. For example, horizontal cracks tend to be more urgent than vertical ones because they could indicate that the perimeter of the home’s foundation is under significant pressure. Even worse are diagonal cracks, which may cause the sheetrock within the home’s walls to tear apart slowly. In brick foundations, foundation cracks that have a staircase appearance are considered very urgent.

Tips for Avoiding Foundation Problems

Here are some steps you can take to minimize major and minor foundation issues.

Inspect Your Foundation

You should carry out regular inspections of your foundation so you can catch problems as early as possible. At least twice a year, walk around your home’s perimeter and check carefully for any cracks or obvious signs of water damage.

You should also take a look inside, checking for cracks in the ceiling or walls, windows and doors that aren’t opening and closing correctly, and water in the basement. If you notice any sign of trouble or are unsure, contact a professional right away. You can also hire contractors to carry out a foundation inspection.

Set Up and Maintain a Proper Drainage System

Poor drainage is one of the top causes of foundation problems. Therefore, it is essential to take steps to ensure that water cannot pool around your home, causing the soil around the foundation to expand and putting pressure on it or leading to foundation upheaval.

Ensure your home has properly installed gutters and downspouts that guide the water at least 10 feet away from the home’s foundation and into the yard. It is important to regularly check your gutters and clear them of any twigs, leaves or other debris that can block them and stop the proper flow of water. In addition to protecting your foundation, this can also protect your siding, landscaping and roof.

Check the Slope of Your Yard

Ensure that the ground around your home slopes away from your foundation instead of toward it. If the opposite occurs, level the slope using fill dirt on the lower side, then grade it so the yard slopes away from the house by at least 6 inches for every 10 feet. This will facilitate drainage in addition to stopping water from pooling close to the foundation.

Contact the Foundation Specialists at Dirt Connections Today

Whether your home is experiencing the first signs of minor foundation issues or a major problem is underway, immediate attention can minimize the damage and your repair expenses. Contact the experienced contractors at Dirt Connections in Northern Virginia today to learn more about our services.