House Hunting? Red Flags to Look for When Assessing Foundation Issues

When house hunting, it’s crucial to keep an eye out for potential problems that could lead to costly repairs down the line. Perhaps the most critical aspect of a home that buyers should be aware of is the foundation.

The foundation serves as the bedrock of a house, supporting its entire structure and keeping it safe and secure. However, foundation issues can be a hidden menace, often concealed beneath the surface, difficult for the average home buyer to identify, and presents costly challenges if not identified early on.

In this article, we will review the red flags you should look for when assessing potential foundation issues during your house-hunting journey, and what to do if you spot any.

Summary:

1. Cracks in the Foundation
2. Uneven, Sagging or Bouncing Floors
3. Sticking Doors and Windows
4. Water Damage
5. Bowing or Leaning Walls
6. Cracks in Exterior Brick
7. Musty Odors
8. Don’t Ignore These Warning Signs

Warning Sign #1: Cracks in the Foundation

A home’s foundation should be solid and free from cracks or fractures. Although minor hairline cracks can be a normal part of settling, larger cracks, particularly those wider than 1/8 inch, could signal serious foundation issues.

Cracks that are horizontal or run in a zigzag pattern are especially concerning, as they may indicate that the foundation is shifting or that there’s pressure from soil or water. Look for cracks both inside and outside the house; check walls, floors, and especially the basement.

If you notice significant foundation cracks, it’s a red flag that the foundation may be compromised, and a professional inspection would be a wise next step.

Warning Sign #2: Uneven, Sagging or Bouncing Floors

As you walk through a potential new home, pay close attention to the way the floors feel under your feet. Uneven or sloping floors can be a clear sign of foundation problems. Over time, shifts in the foundation can cause floors to sag, dip, bounce or become unlevel.

You might notice this issue visually, or you may feel it as you walk from room to room. It’s also worth checking for gaps between the floor and the wall, or between the floor and baseboards.

Warning Sign #3: Sticking Doors and Windows

While touring a potential new home, make it a point to open and close doors and windows. If you notice that doors and windows are sticking or difficult to operate, this could be a sign of foundation issues.

When a house’s foundation shifts, it can warp the frames of doors and windows, making them difficult to open and close. It’s important to note that while some sticking can be due to paint or humidity, consistent issues across multiple doors and windows could be a red flag for foundation problems.

Warning Sign #4: Water Damage

One of the key things to look for when assessing a home’s foundation is signs of water damage. This can manifest in various ways, from damp spots or mold on walls and floors, to water stains on the ceiling, or pooling water around the base of the house.

Water damage can be an indication of poor drainage, which can lead to foundation problems over time as water seeps into the foundation, causing it to crack, shift, or erode. Be sure to also check the basement or crawl space for signs of moisture or water damage. If water is consistently present or there are noticeable water trails, it could mean that the foundation is not effectively keeping water out, which is a serious concern.

Warning Sign #5: Bowing or Leaning Walls

If you notice that walls are bowing inward or outward, or seem to be leaning, this could be a serious indication of foundation issues. These problems can occur when the soil around the foundation expands and contracts due to moisture levels, exerting pressure on the walls and causing them to shift. This is not just an aesthetic concern; over time, leaning or bowing walls can lead to significant structural damage.

Look for horizontal cracks, which are particularly concerning as they often indicate pressure from the soil outside. It’s also worth checking if the house seems ‘off-level’ or tilting as a whole, which can happen if one part of the foundation sinks more than others.

Warning Sign #6: Cracks in the Exterior Brick

As you walk around the outside of a home, take a close look at the brickwork. Cracks in the exterior brick can be a significant red flag when it comes to foundation issues.

These cracks often form a stair-step pattern or run diagonally across the wall, and are usually caused by the house settling unevenly, leading to stress and eventual breakage in the bricks. While small hairline cracks can be normal due to natural settling over time, larger cracks, especially those wider than 1/4 inch, could indicate serious foundation problems.

Warning Sign #7: Musty Odors

If you detect musty or moldy odors, particularly in the basement or lower levels of the house, it could be a sign of foundation issues. These smells often indicate the presence of moisture or water intrusion, which can occur if the foundation has cracks or isn’t properly sealed.

Over time, this excess moisture can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and other damage, not to mention potential health issues for the home’s inhabitants. Keep in mind that while dehumidifiers and air fresheners might mask the smell temporarily, they won’t address the underlying problem.

Don’t Ignore These Warning Signs

If you do come across any of these issues, it’s important to have a professional foundation repair company assess the situation and provide solutions before making a purchase. For Milwaukee foundation repair, reach out to us at Zablocki Waterproofing.

Our team of experts is here to help ensure your new home has a solid foundation for years to come. We can diagnose any problem related to foundation repair, foundation beaming and bracing, and basement waterproofing. Call us today so we can help you!