Normal and Not Normal Signs of Foundation Settling | Crawl Space Waterproofing | Charlotte NC

NORMAL AND NOT NORMAL SIGNS OF FOUNDATION SETTLING

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SETTLEMENT

Usually, homes will settle over the years, and it causes some perfectly normal signs. However, other symptoms can be atypical and need the expertise of a foundation repair expert. And here below, we will explain some signs to determine whether you have normal settling or need a foundation repair.

Many homeowners can be alarmed if they note cracks in walls and floors in their basements. However, settling consists of a process associated with natural changes taking place in a foundation over the years because of time and weather. Likewise, experienced contractors can be prepared to build a house on a determined soil and predict how much a foundation will settle in the future.

FOUNDATION PROBLEMS On the other hand, foundation problems can be ongoing settlements due to site factors after the initial settlement happened. For example, concrete shrinkage may vary depending on several factors, such as the material, weather, humidity, groundwater, and concrete mixture.

In the first instance, settlement can be unnoticeable and typical in any construction process (small cracks that keep the same size over the years). But larger issues occur when you note jagged cracks running at 45-degree angles.

Another sign of foundation problems arises if you see sticking doors and windows because their frames have gaps caused by continuous settlement.

FOUNDATION EXPANSION

Foundation expansion is another structural problem, especially in foundations that use brick. This issue is caused by the natural tendency of this material to expand over time. Foundation expansion can worsen because of factors beneath the ground that grow more due to moisture.

CRACKS Cracks and fissures may appear in any structure due to unexpected factors, such as settlement, expansion, lateral movements due to slope collapses, or earthquakes. However, their causes can also be related to material alteration due to overloads, vibrations caused by traffic, or work with heavy machinery nearby.

Cracks and fissures can affect building performance and produce impermeability loss, corrosion, decomposition, and progressive deterioration. If you see cracked walls and floors, try to identify their path, length, size, and tendency. Also, you must check the affected building elements to understand the magnitude of the risk.

For further information, call your trusted experts on crawl space waterproofing in Charlotte, NC.

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