The Signs of a Failing Building Foundation

Any structure, whether it be a residential home or a commercial building, needs a solid foundation to support the structure. Without that foundation, the structure cannot safely house people; the same is true when there’s a failing foundation.

There can be several reasons for a foundation to deteriorate over time, but contractors need to know the signs of a failing building foundation to act fast enough to fix it. If contractors fail to do the job correctly, the building with the broken foundation will no longer be safe to inhabit.

Keep an Eye Out for Cracks

After construction completes on a new building, the foundation will naturally settle over the next two to three years, resulting in minor, superficial cracks. But serious issues start to occur if those small cracks develop into serious fissures.

Typically, horizontal cracks that are roughly two inches wide are a common sign of significant foundational damage, most likely resulting from excess water pressure on the foundation. Never discount any type of crack on an interior or exterior wall; while it may be small, it can grow into something more serious.

Signs of Settling or Sinking

A sinking foundation can take several forms, whether it’s the entire structure sinking evenly, one side becoming lower than the other, or the center of the building sinking before the edges. Whatever the scenario, these are not safe conditions for a building’s occupants, and major repair work is necessary.

Foundational sinking occurs when one or more sides of the foundation have excess moisture, weakening the solid ground and resulting in the sink. Different foundations react differently to sinking, making each repair job specific to the building.

Uneven Floors

When the foundation fails, it affects the rest of the structure in tangible ways. One of the most common signs of a building’s failing foundation occurs when the floor begins to noticeably sag or becomes unlevel.

These signs not only serve as an early warning of more serious problems but also pose a safety risk to anyone inhabiting the structure. Tripping and slipping hazards are the norm when it comes to a sagging, uneven floor, and individuals risk their safety until these foundation issues are resolved.

Correct the Mistakes Effectively

As a contractor, it’s essential to address foundational problems and possess the correct tools for the job. Always keep an eye out for those signs that point to foundation issues, and never let them go without mention to a property owner. A keen eye can save property owners a lot of money when you catch these issues early and eliminate unnecessary risk.