Signs of Foundation Settlement
February 5th, 2013
All foundations settle, don't they? The interesting thing about foundation settlement is in most instance
s the settlement occurs over time. During this time, we as humans adapt to the changes. Here in the Central United States, and more specifically, Central Iowa, the drought has advanced time, and foundations have taken a real beating this past year.
In the lake areas of Iowa, the lack of vegetation to hold the soil has been an issue. This issue is noted when the rains have come and washed away the soil. Although it didn’t rain a lot, the rain we received did cause damage from run off and from cracks in the ground around the foundations. The “run off” sent the soil down towards the lake, causing “wash out” and the wash out weakened the strength of the soil holding the significant weight of the foundations and structures above and settlement occurred. Homes with proper drainage and landscaping were not hit as hard.
Depending on where the settlement has occurred, whether it is a corner or the house, the corner and one side, a corner and two sides, maybe you are on a slab, and possibly two sides of the house have dropped and settled up-heaving the center. If you can’t see the possible damage clearly, other signs of settlement could be windows that do not open and close properly, doors that do not open and close properly, cracks in the drywall around the interior window frames and door jams, and sliding doors that stick and do not open and close properly. In any case, fixing and repairing the foundation is imperative.
Now what?
We have learned from experience that foundation settlement will not reverse it self or repair itself. So, a repair and stablilization is the answer. In many instances you can lift the settlement back into place, however there are times when stablilization is the only answer. A trained professional is the key, and can answer all of your questions.
What should you do?
First, give us a call and schedule a foundation inspection and evaluation. This in home evaluation is free to you and your family. We will be happy to assist you in any way we can.