The Top 5 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Ignore Foundation Issues

If you suspect you have a foundation problem, it's natural to have concerns and questions swirling in your mind. What's it going to take to fix it? How serious is it? And what if it never gets fixed? 

We go over what could happen if foundation issues are ignored in this blog. Here's everything you need to know.

First of all, what is a foundation problem?

Your home's foundation is your home's support. Without one, your house would start looking like the Leaning Tower of Pisa. A foundation problem can happen when that support starts to crack or shift, due to soil erosion, water damage, or bad construction.

It can show up in your home as cracks in the drywall, windows that don't open, or uneven floors. These signs are warnings from your home that it needs attention. 

What happens if you ignore a foundation problem?

Let's say, you notice a crack in your wall. Or maybe you had a contractor come out and confirm you have an issue. What happens if you turn a blind eye and don't get it fixed? Here are the potential consequences. 

1. Your home value lowers

Whether you plan on selling your home or not, your home value will lower with a foundation problem. And if you're like most people, your home is one of the biggest investments you'll ever make so protecting that value keeps your investment safe and growing. When you sell, a home inspector will examine the condition of your home and find out about the issue. 

The buyer will either walk away entirely or ask for a steep discount on the price - which can be up to 30%! 

2. Pest infestations and mold

Pests like rodents and insects are always looking for a new home. And if your foundation has significant cracks on the exterior, then you might be housing a few new furry or long-legged friends in the crack openings. In addition, water can seep through those cracks, enter your home, and create the perfect environment for mold to grow. 

3. Structural damage

Structural damage is one of the most significant concerns when it comes to your home's foundations. Even if you have a tiny crack right now, foundation problems tend to worsen gradually, which results in structural weaknesses. A compromised foundation can cause load-bearing walls to shift or crack, putting immense stress on the overall structure of your home. In severe cases, ignored foundation issues can lead to walls collapsing or colliding with each other. 

4. Expensive repairs

As we said above, foundation problems do not go away; they get progressively worse. And the worse they get, the more expensive and complicated the repair gets. By allowing these issues to persist, you are potentially turning a minor repair into a full-blown foundation replacement. 

5. Safety

When you ignore foundation issues, they get gradually worse, and therefore, create a huge safety risk for you, your family, and your home.  

Here's what to do if you have foundation issues

If you think you have a foundation issue, it's important to act promptly. Addressing problems early can help prevent further and save your home and your wallet. It's best to reach out to a reputable foundation repair contractor and schedule a home inspection. These professionals will assess the extent of the damage and recommend the appropriate solution. 

Remember, addressing foundation problems promptly is essential to protect your home and investment. And if you're in our service area, we'd love to help. We've been in business for over 45 years and offer free, no-obligation home inspections. Contact us today by starting a chat in the bottom right corner, filling out this form, or calling us at 515-585-6491.