House Foundation Cracks and Other Signs the House You’re Buying Is Structurally Defective
Are you in the market for a house? Buying a house is not a small investment, whether you’re a prospective homeowner or an investor. The fact that there are many options available makes it even harder to determine which would be a good financial decision.
Making the wrong decision when you purchase a home could mean that you’ll spend months in debt with little hope of even breaking even on your investment. It is therefore important to minimize the risks involved in purchasing a house by ensuring it’s in good condition. The best place to begin is with the foundation.
Signs that a house has structural issues
- House foundation cracks
Keep your eyes peeled for house foundation cracks. While not every crack is a sign of structural problems, they are a sign of a problem that needs further looking into.
Some cracks such as shrinkage cracks are completely normal and shouldn’t be a cause for alarm. Cracks that are wider than ¼ inch, however, are a sign of a foundation problem. It is best practice to get a foundation repair contractor to inspect the foundation and determine whether the cracks are a sign of structural problems or not. They will also advise you on the best way to repair the cracks and what the cracks were caused by in the first place.
- Sticking windows and doors
Are the windows or doors difficult to open? Do they fit properly into their frames when shut? These are often signs of rotting structural supports or uneven floors. Both of these are a result of foundation issues that should be attended to prevent further structural damage.
- Uneven floors
Check the floors to see whether they are level. Sloping floors are almost always a sign of a foundation problem. Don’t be fooled by the ‘that’s just the character of the home’, sales pitch. A slopping floor is often an indication of a problem that will most likely require expensive repair.
- More cracks in window or door frames
Cracks around window and door frames could be the normal hairline cracks caused by shrinkage. They could also be the result of a foundation problem resulting in structural defects. It is wise to have these investigated by a foundation repair professional.
It’s important to have the home inspected by a foundation repair professional whether you notice house foundation cracks or not. Be sure that you’re investing in a property that has strong bones.
Rob VanSuilichem
Serving Michigan homeowners for over 32 years, Everdry is one of the Nation’s largest and most experienced waterproofer. Locally owned, operated and staffed, Everdry professionals take a personal one-on-one approach in educating homeowners so they truly understand all their options for creating a safe, dry, healthy and usable space in their basements.
What Sets Us Apart
- Unbeatable quality due to the experience of the owners and staff.
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Credentials Include:
- Members of the Home Builders Association
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The aforementioned memberships are important because we benefit from the constant exchange of information and knowledge. We are updated on everything from installation techniques, to customer service improvements. You benefit in the knowledge that these third party inspection agencies require us to meet stringent requirements to remain members in good standing.
Better Business Bureau
We have been nominated and won the prestigious Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award for Ethics many times, Chosen as a W.Mich.BBB Torch finalist in 2014 & 2015, Won the Torch Award for Ethics in 2016, Won the Eastern Michigan BBB Torch Award in 2019 and was also chosen as a Western Michigan BBB Torch finalist in 2019. Won the Eastern Michigan BBB Torch Award in 2023 and Finalist for the Western Michigan BBB Torch Award in 2020 & 2021!
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To create raving fans of our customers and employees through frequent contact, constant training, a commitment to excellence and unlimited opportunity.