Debbie A lot is riding on your home’s foundation. If there’s any damage to the structure, it’s important to find a contractor to fix it immediately.
This will help to prevent the problem from getting worse. It’s also essential to know the signs that you should look for. These include 1.
Your Home Is Leaking Water
There are a few different types of leaks that can affect your home. Some can be fixed with a quick plumbing repair, but others require a professional. Water leaking through your foundation indicates you must immediately hire a foundation repair contractor.
A reputable foundation repair contractor will evaluate your home and the surrounding area to determine needed support. They will typically develop a plan to support the site that needs work. These supports are placed in the affected areas to help keep your home in its original position and prevent it from sinking over time.
The most important thing to look for in a foundation repair contractor is experience in the local area. Each municipality has different soil conditions, so your contractor must be worked in the area before. Ask the contractor how long they’ve been in business and how many jobs they have done locally.
Many people worry that cracks in the exterior of their homes are a bad sign, but not all cracks are equal. Small vertical cracks about one-sixteenth of an inch wide aren’t a big deal, but horizontal cracks and stair-step patterns might indicate a problem with your foundation. If your house is leaning, it’s also a sign that you must get a professional involved.
You See Cracks or Cracked Walls
Home improvements, DIY jobs and general sprucing-up tasks that need to be done around the house can seem endless. But one thing that shouldn’t be ignored is a crack in your foundation. Small cracks less than a quarter inch wide are common and generally not a sign of any major issues. However, wider cracks are cause for concern and require the attention of a professional.
When hiring a contractor to work on your foundation, you’ll want to ask them for references. This will allow you to get an idea of the quality of their work from people who have already been impressed.
Also, be sure to determine whether they use in-house employees or subcontractors. This will help you determine how much control the contractor has over their crews. Hiring a company that uses in-house employees is important for several reasons, including avoiding miscommunication and ensuring that all work is checked for quality.
Various things can cause cracks in your walls, but most are signs you need to hire a foundation repair contractor. Depending on the severity of the damage, a contractor will recommend different steps to fix it, which could include installing a pier and beam system. This can be very expensive, so it’s best to address the issue sooner rather than later.
You See Crawling Bugs
Seeing crawling bugs in your home is never a good sign. They’re a nuisance and lead to costly damage that can be difficult to repair. If you see any of these pests in your home, it’s important to catch them early so they don’t get out of control.
Crawling insects are often seen in damp areas like crawl spaces and basements, where moisture can cause several issues. These creatures are drawn to moist conditions because they provide shelter, darkness and food sources. They can spread bacteria and contaminate foods, making them a serious health hazard.
A common example is the American cockroach, which can spread deadly diseases like salmonella and typhoid. They’re also prone to breeding at an astounding rate, making them one of the most dangerous household pests. Black droppings, skin traces and musty odors can easily spot cockroaches.
Other examples include millipedes, centipedes and crickets, which can all cause significant damage to your home and belongings. These pests feed on various items, including paper and wood products. They can also destroy insulation and cause other problems in your home. Targeted traps and baits can help you catch these unwanted pests while minimizing the chance of catching non-targeted species. This is especially important when trying to avoid indiscriminate killing.
Your Home Is Moving
When a home has foundation problems, the ground moves beneath it. This puts pressure on the walls and floors of the house. This often results in the feet needing to be more balanced. If you notice that one side of the floor is lower than another, it’s a sign that your foundation needs repair. This can also lead to doors that are harder to close and may cause the walls of your home to crack or chip.
Foundation problems are common, and many can be repaired inexpensively. However, some issues can be expensive and require a complete foundation overhaul. If you aren’t ready to spend that much money, ask a contractor about temporary solutions. While they won’t last, they may buy you some time to save up for a full renovation.
When looking for a foundation repair contractor, get quotes from multiple companies before deciding. Don’t be afraid to ask a contractor about their work history and references. A good contractor should be proud of their work and be happy to provide you with a list of satisfied customers. If a contractor is reluctant to provide you with references, it’s a red flag.
