Home - Home and Garden - 14 Warning Signs Of Home Foundation Problems

14 warning signs of home foundation problems

14 warning signs of home foundation problems

A house’s foundation is its fundamental support system. It serves as the bedrock upon which the entire house is built, and any problems with it can lead to significant structural problems. Early detection and timely repairs of these issues are important as they can save homeowners from extensive restorations down the road. Here are some of the most common indicators that warrant a careful assessment of one’s foundation for the long-term stability of the house.

Cracks in the foundation or exterior walls
One of the most obvious signs is the presence of cracks in the foundation itself or the exterior walls of the house. Different types of cracks may indicate different issues, and not all cracks may suggest severe damage. For example, hairline shrinkage cracks due to concrete drying are usually harmless, while vertical cracks due to settling may not be severe. Horizontal and stair-step cracks, on the other hand, are more alarming and usually indicate foundation issues. Paying close attention to the width and length of these cracks can provide valuable information about the extent of the problem.

Interior wall cracks
Another telltale sign that indicates significant stress on the foundation is the presence of cracks on a house’ interior walls, drywall, or sheetrock walls. The size and width of these cracks can vary, with wider cracks typically signifying more damage.

Cracks in ceilings
Ceiling cracks may form near the junction of walls and ceilings or across the ceiling’s surface. These can also signify foundation issues, especially if they are not associated with typical wear and tear or moisture damage. Addressing such cracks promptly is essential to maintain the structural integrity of the home.

Chimney displacement
Homeowners should keep an eye out for signs of chimney separation, where the chimney begins to pull away from the main structure of the house and can look slanted or shifted. This can be a clear indicator of foundation movement and should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.

Gaps around windows and doors
Doors and windows may develop gaps around their frames, allowing moisture, drafts, and pests to enter the home. While not always a surefire sign of foundation problems, they should be investigated, as they may indicate structural shifts in the house.

Doors and windows don’t function properly
Homeowners may observe that the doors and windows, including kitchen cabinet ones, no longer latch smoothly, show uneven spacing, pull away from the wall, or seem to stick in their frames. This is often due to the distortion of the door and window openings caused by foundation movement. Such issues can also result in drafts and decreased energy efficiency in the home.

Sagging floors
Homeowners might notice that the floors slope in certain areas or feel uneven underfoot. This unevenness can occur due to the shifting or sinking of the foundation, which, if not addressed promptly, can lead to structural problems throughout the house.

Cracking tiles
Cracks on the floor tiling can result from a variety of factors, including settling of the foundation, temperature fluctuations, or subfloor issues. While some cracks may be minor, others can indicate more significant underlying problems. Ignoring tile floor cracks can lead to moisture penetration and the potential for further damage over time.

Soft floorboard
This issue can often go unnoticed until it’s too late. When floorboards feel soft or give way underfoot, it typically indicates underlying structural problems. It can be related to moisture damage, termite damage, or rot. Soft floorboards can compromise the safety and stability of a home, posing a potential hazard to its occupants.

Sinking ground around the house
This issue can come up due to drainage problems or water leakage, and is best addressed as early as possible. One can walk along the outer end of one’s house to check for any sinking or sagging.

Buckling basement walls
In basements with foundation issues, walls may exhibit noticeable bowing or buckling. These inward or outward deformations can be caused by soil pressure or water damage.

Musty odors and mold growth in the basement
Foundation problems can lead to water intrusion in the basement or crawl space, creating a damp environment. This can give rise to musty odors and promote the growth of mold and mildew. If one notices these issues, it’s essential to address the foundation and waterproofing concerns.

Basement pests and insect activity
An increase in pests and insect activity in the basement, such as termites or ants, could be linked to foundation problems. As the foundation cracks or shifts, it can create entry points for pests seeking shelter and moisture.

Stair-step brick cracks
Exterior stair-step brick cracks are a distinctive sign of potential structural problems in a house or a building. These cracks typically manifest in a diagonal or stair-step pattern along brick walls, especially near corners or where walls meet.

What affects the foundation of a house?
Several factors affect the foundation of a house. One of them is the type of soil beneath the house, as some soils can shift or settle over time. Water also plays a significant role; too much water can cause soil to expand and put pressure on the foundation, while too little water can make the soil shrink and create gaps. Tree roots near the house can also be a problem, as they can draw moisture from the soil and cause it to dry out. Finally, construction quality and maintenance, like poor construction, neglected repairs, or poor remodeling, can lead to foundation issues over time.

How to fix foundation problems of a house?
To fix foundation problems in a house, there are different ways to go about it, depending on the issue. These methods include adding support under the foundation, lifting sunken areas, making sure water doesn’t get in, or fixing uneven floors. One might also need to deal with moisture and pests in crawl spaces, repair damaged parts, strengthen walls, or stabilize the ground. It’s essential to consult a constructor or foundation repair expert like a structural engineer who can recommend the best solution for one’s specific problem. This will ensure the safety of one’s home and avert further damage.

Previous Read

13 Tips to Make a Low-Vision Friendly Home

If you are one of the millions affected by macular degeneration, you must know that this degenerative eye disease can make everyday activities difficult. Even something as simple as reading a book or watching TV can be challenging. For example, you can do a few things to stay comfortably at home with low vision. In this article, we will share 13 tips on making a low-vision-friendly home to make everyday living easier. What is macular degeneration? It is a condition that impacts the macula, which is the central part of the retina, and occurs when the macula deteriorates or breaks down. Macular degeneration symptoms Symptoms of macular degeneration include blurred or distorted vision, difficulty reading or seeing fine details, and a change in color perception. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see an eye doctor for a comprehensive dilated eye exam. Why does a low-vision-friendly home play a crucial part in patients with macular degeneration? A low-vision-friendly home design helps people with macular degeneration live as independently as possible while still enjoying their surroundings. In addition, it can provide them with a safe and functional environment to improve their contrast and visibility. Helpful tips for a low-vision friendly home Use bright and contrasting colors Using bright colors can help make objects more visible and easier to see. This will help to increase the visibility of things in your environment and make it easier to navigate. Make sure there is plenty of natural light during the day, and consider installing additional lighting fixtures to help brighten up the space. Keep things organized and uncluttered One of the most important things you can do to help manage macular degeneration is to keep things organized and uncluttered. Try keeping all your documents in one place (like on a computer or filing cabinet) rather than scattering them around the house. And be sure to create systems (like color-coding) so that everything is easy to identify. In addition, avoid clutter by storing items that don't have a specific purpose (like decorations). Use clear labels To make your home low-vision friendly, you'll need to use clear labels on everything in the room so that people with macular degeneration can identify what's important. For example, label all furniture and appliances to indicate where they should sit or stand to avoid obstructing views. Incorporate different textures One of the best ways to make a home for someone with macular degeneration is to incorporate different textures and patterns into the space. This can help stimulate the senses, which in turn can improve moods and cognitive function. Use tactile cues One way to make things easier is to use tactile cues – little touches or nudges that help you know where something is. For example, if you're trying to find a mug in the kitchen cabinet, feel around for it until you find the right spot, and then grab it. You can also put a rug at the base of your stairs so that you can feel it when you've reached the bottom step or place a mat in front of your door so that you know when you've reached the threshold. Use ramping and raised edges Ramping is a gradual incline that can make it easier to get around your home. Raised edges can help you avoid bumping into furniture or tripping over objects. Install handrails Handrails are a great way to make homes more accessible for people with low vision. It can be installed on stairs, hallways, and anywhere else helpful. Handrails provide a stable surface for people to hold on to while navigating around the house to help them stay upright. Use non-slip flooring One simple tip is to use non-slip flooring throughout your home. This can help prevent falls and other accidents, especially for those with low vision. In these cases, you must have as much traction as possible when walking around your home so that you don't fall and injure yourself. Make doorways and hallways wider This will allow you to navigate more easily around your home and avoid obstacles while walking. Wider doorways also make it easier for caregivers or family members to get in and out of the house without going through tight spaces. Install assistive technology This can help with everything from reading and writing to cooking and cleaning. There are several different types of assistive technology available, so it's crucial to find one that's right for your needs. For example, if you need help with reading, special magnifiers and software can enlarge text on a screen or piece of paper. Some devices read text aloud, which can be very helpful for cooking or following a recipe. Installing assistive technology in your home can make a big difference in your quality of life if you have macular degeneration. It can help you stay independent and connected to the things you love. Modify your appliances One of the most important things is to modify your appliances. For example, if you have a stovetop with knobs on the front, you can replace those knobs with ones that are easier to see and use. Also, keep cords and wires hidden to help prevent trips and falls and reduce visual clutter. Use non-slip mats in the bath and shower Slippery surfaces can make it difficult for those with macular degeneration to get around safely and increase their risk of falling. To make your home as low-vision friendly as possible, put non-slip mats in the bath and shower. These mats help keep water from pooling on the floor, creating a non-slippery surface, providing an extra layer of traction, and preventing falls. Use bright paint on doors One simple tip is to use bright paint on your doors. This will make them easier to see, especially if you have trouble with contrast sensitivity. For example, you can add a reflective tape strip to the door's top and bottom for even more visibility. Conclusion A low-vision-friendly home can make a big difference in the lives of people with macular degeneration to maintain their independence and quality of life.

Next Read

13 air conditioner mistakes that waste energy and money

Air conditioners are not only effective in facilitating cool air but also in removing excess moisture, dehumidifying the room, and removing mold and pollutants from the air. Such functions help manage asthma attacks and other respiratory conditions among those prone to these diseases. Maintaining an air conditioner is important to ensure its optimal functioning over time. With that in mind, here are 13 common mistakes to avoid that can increase energy and money wastage: Not cleaning the coils and fins of the AC The coils and fins of an air conditioning system help absorb heat effectively. With time, dust and grime accumulate in the air conditioner’s coils and fins, reducing its efficiency and increasing maintenance costs in the long run. Therefore, it is important to regularly clean the coils and fins of an AC, particularly when the weather is windy or stormy. Ignoring the drain Drains redirect accumulated water outside the premises where they are installed and prevent the development of mold and mildew. If the air conditioner’s drain gets clogged with time, it can cause severe damage to the surrounding areas, including walls and floors. One should check the AC’s drain every now and then and promptly treat any drainage issues to prevent such damage. Lowering the AC temperature too much Contrary to popular belief, setting the AC temperature very low does not ensure faster cooling. In fact, air conditioners require just as much energy to lower the temperature to one or two degrees as they do to lower it by 10-15 degrees. Therefore, lowering the AC temperature makes no significant difference in terms of cooling. Moreover, lowering the temperature by one unit increases energy consumption by 6 percent. So, it is more cost-effective to maintain AC temperature rather than change it frequently. Not using ceiling or table fans Any type of fan can considerably help with ventilation and ensure air cooling in a room. It also reduces the need to have the AC turned on at all times. Installing two to three ceiling fans in large rooms and at least one fan in smaller ones can help reduce energy consumption and lower electricity bills. Not placing the thermostats in the right place If a thermostat is placed in an area receiving direct sunlight or near a lamp or some other source of light, it could affect the thermostat readings and exert pressure on the air conditioning system, even if the weather is actually cool. Hence, it is important to install thermostats at the right locations to prevent the AC from overworking. Blocking AC vents Sometimes, one may accidentally place a piece of furniture in front of the AC vent without realizing that the vent is getting blocked. Blocking the AC vent can reduce air circulation considerably, causing one to have the AC turned on for longer periods than required. For this reason, one should ensure that the AC vents are not obstructed. Forgetting to turn off the AC when stepping out One of the most common mistakes that can considerably increase energy consumption is forgetting to turn off the AC when it is not in use. Having the AC turned on for long periods can cause one’s electricity bills to shoot up significantly. It is important to turn off the AC each time before stepping out, even if it is for a brief while. Not having a programmable thermostat It is common for people to forget to adjust their thermostat when leaving the house in a hurry. However, installing a programmable thermostat can automatically regulate the temperature while away, resulting in significant savings on electricity bills. Not getting the AC checked and serviced regularly Servicing an air conditioning system can help detect any issues and remedy them promptly. It can also help clean the various components of an AC and increase its efficiency and durability. It is advisable to get an AC system serviced at least once a year and more frequently if the AC is older. Not having blinds drawn Bright sunlight can considerably increase pressure on one’s air conditioning system and raise electricity bills. Blinds and curtains protect one’s home from direct sunlight and keep it cool throughout, particularly during the summer. One should have the blinds drawn when the AC is turned on during the day. Not closing the windows regularly It is important to close the windows of a room each time the AC is turned on, as keeping them open can cause excess moisture to enter the home. This increases pressure on the AC system, causing electricity bills to shoot up. Installing an oversized AC An oversized air conditioning unit causes the room to cool down unusually fast, which reduces the coil’s ability to condense water efficiently. Consequently, the moisture is redirected to the room, causing an increase in energy consumption. Turning the AC on during winters Turning on the AC during snowy weather can unnecessarily increase energy consumption. Instead, it is best to enjoy naturally cool weather whenever possible rather than having the AC turned on throughout the year. If the nights are colder than the days, the best option is to turn them on only during the day. This simple change can help reduce energy usage and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Trending Articles

01

All About Age-related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the top causes of vision loss in people aged sixty and older. It is a disease that hampers your sharp, central vision. Central vision is pivotal to helping you see objects clearly and do tasks like driving and reading. AMD impairs your macula, the part of the eye that helps you see fine detail. It is not painful, but it kills the cells in the macula. It starts with blurred vision, but you gradually lose central sight. Seeing crooked lines is one of the initial AMD signs. In this guide, we will discuss everything related to AMD in detail. Types of AMD Dry People with dry AMD have drusen or yellow spots in the macula. Small drusen might not necessarily impair your vision, but as they grow in size and increase in number, they distort and dim your vision, especially as you read. Over time the condition worsens, and the light-sensitive cells in the macula get thinner and die eventually. If it is in the atrophic form, you will experience a blind spot in the center of the vision. Consequently, it worsens, and you lose central sight. Wet Blood vessels grow below the macula.
02

9 Laundry Detergents for Fresh Smelling Clothes

There’s nothing worse than putting on a shirt that smells of body odor or rancid sweat. It’s even more frustrating when you wash it and it still smells terrible. Many people are looking for ways to keep their clothes smelling great without using harsh chemicals. If you’re looking for a laundry detergent that keeps your clothes smelling fresh, we have some suggestions for you. Keep reading to find the perfect laundry detergent for your needs. Method Laundry Detergent With Method Laundry Detergent, you can enjoy your laundry experience while knowing that you’re doing good for the environment. This plant-based detergent uses 66 loads worth of stain-lifting power to clean your clothes, while the fresh air scent of lavender and cypress will leave them smelling great. Moreover, it’s vegan and cruelty-free, so you can feel good about using it. This mild detergent has an effective formula that is both safe for you and the environment, and it is reasonably priced at $14.49 for 53.5 fl oz. Additionally, it comes with various fresh scents to choose from, so you can enjoy clean and fragrant clothes without harsh chemicals. ZUM Frankincense & Myrrh Laundry Detergent This detergent is made with gentle ingredients, sensitive launderers in mind, and a mix of saponified coconut oil and deep-cleansing agents to lift stains and leave your clothes smelling great.
03

Tips to Manage Age-related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition threatening one’s eyesight and general health. In AMD, the macula, the part of the eye that helps produce the most detailed and sharpest vision, starts to break down and thin, resulting in vision loss. It is one of the most prevalent causes of blindness in people aged 60 or older. Though there is no definite cure for AMD, some things can postpone its onset or lower its severity. Being aware of family history Family history and genetics are one of the leading causes of AMD. So, if you have a first-degree relative with AMD, your chances of developing it are also higher. Hence, you must be vigilant and educate yourself on the potential AMD signs, such as the inability to adapt to low light conditions, difficulty identifying faces, and straight lines looking wavy. Knowledge of these symptoms can help you reach out to an ophthalmologist and get timely treatment while AMD is still in an early stage. Getting routine comprehensive medical checkups In the early stages of AMD, you might not experience any symptoms. Hence, routine comprehensive eye exams with an ophthalmologist can help with timely diagnosis and treatment. It holds even for adults 40 or older with no risk factors or signs because this is when you may develop early AMD symptoms or experience changes in vision.
04

Foods to Eat and Avoid After Dental Implants

Dental implants are a major surgical procedure. Hence, you must take the necessary post-operative measures to ensure a speedy recovery. One of the first things you will feel after the surgery is hunger, as dental implants demand abstaining from food for six hours since the procedure temporarily impacts your chewing ability. So, you must adhere to selective foods and avoid some, especially for two weeks. Therefore, here’s a list of foods to eat and avoid: Foods to eat Smoothies In the initial days post-surgery, you may be unable to chew your favorite food. So, the next best thing is drinking it as a smoothie. Smoothies are wholesome and tasty meals. You can make them with whatever vegetable or fruits you like, ensuring they have a high nutritional value and are rich in vitamins. Muffins You might be unable to eat the muffins on the first or the second-day post-surgery, but after the initial few days, you can easily enjoy a good muffin. They are easy to chew and are very delicious. Hence, they can be an incredible snack or breakfast option following dental implant surgery. Potatoes They are versatile and soft. You can prepare them in different ways. So, even if you eat the same ingredient, you will not get bored.

Our Blogs

Atrial Fibrillation – Causes, Signs, and Remedies

Atrial Fibrillation – Causes, Signs, and Remedies

Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is characterized by an irregular heart rhythm or arrhythmia in the atria or the heart’s upper two chambers. It causes a disturbance in the typical cycle of the electrical impulses in the heart. The condition results in a rapid and chaotic heart rhythm and poor blood movement from the upper chambers to the ventricles or the lower chambers. Below, we address the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and management of AFib. Causes AFib, or a change in the electrical signals in the heart, can affect anyone, regardless of age. But it is more prevalent in older people. A few risk factors that amplify the condition’s susceptibility are: Heart diseases People with an underlying heart condition, like a heart attack, coronary artery disease, and heart failure, have a greater risk of AFib. Hypertension If left unchecked, high blood pressure can strain the heart and aggravate the risk of this disorder. Familial link People with a family history of AFib have a greater chance of suffering from the condition. Sleep apnea This sleep disorder can also increase a person’s susceptibility to AFib, especially if it is severe. Besides the above, other chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, and thyroid also put a person at risk of this heart problem.
Read More
13 Tips to Make a Low-Vision Friendly Home

13 Tips to Make a Low-Vision Friendly Home

If you are one of the millions affected by macular degeneration, you must know that this degenerative eye disease can make everyday activities difficult. Even something as simple as reading a book or watching TV can be challenging. For example, you can do a few things to stay comfortably at home with low vision. In this article, we will share 13 tips on making a low-vision-friendly home to make everyday living easier. What is macular degeneration? It is a condition that impacts the macula, which is the central part of the retina, and occurs when the macula deteriorates or breaks down. Macular degeneration symptoms Symptoms of macular degeneration include blurred or distorted vision, difficulty reading or seeing fine details, and a change in color perception. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see an eye doctor for a comprehensive dilated eye exam. Why does a low-vision-friendly home play a crucial part in patients with macular degeneration? A low-vision-friendly home design helps people with macular degeneration live as independently as possible while still enjoying their surroundings. In addition, it can provide them with a safe and functional environment to improve their contrast and visibility. Helpful tips for a low-vision friendly home Use bright and contrasting colors Using bright colors can help make objects more visible and easier to see.
Read More
Macular Degeneration – Causes, Symptoms, and More

Macular Degeneration – Causes, Symptoms, and More

Macular degeneration is a progressive disease that destroys the macula, the part of the eye that allows you to see fine details. It can make activities like reading, writing, and driving difficult or impossible. The disease typically occurs in older adults and can lead to blindness. While macular degeneration can be managed in its early stages, it has no cure. This article discusses the causes, risk factors, symptoms, and treatments of macular degeneration. What is macular degeneration? Macular degeneration is a disease of the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye. There are two types of macular degeneration: dry and wet. The former develops when the macula dries out and loses its function. Wet macular degeneration is a result of new blood vessels under the retina leaking fluid or blood, causing vision loss. Symptoms of macular degeneration The symptoms of macular degeneration can develop differently in individuals, but here are the typical signs one must note. One of the main symptoms is a gradual loss of central vision, which can progress over time and may not be noticeable at first. Additional symptoms are difficulty reading small print or close-up objects, trouble seeing in dim light or when looking up from a low angle, problems with depth perception and peripheral vision, and poor night vision.
Read More
What is Eczema and How to Treat It

What is Eczema and How to Treat It

Eczema is a chronic skin disease characterized by dry, red, and itchy skin. It typically appears around the arms, elbows, and knees; however, it can show up anywhere. As the condition can flare up due to various triggers, it is vital to understand its nature and how to treat it. This article provides a guide to everything one needs to know about eczema, from its causes and symptoms to treatment options and helpful management tips. What is eczema? Eczema is a skin condition that can be both painful and itchy. It can also be embarrassing, as it often appears as a rash on the face, hands, or other visible areas of the body. Because eczema weakens your skin’s barrier, you’re also more susceptible to infection. Is eczema contagious? There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that eczema is contagious. There are some reports of people with eczema who have also had close family members with it, but these cases are rare and not always linked. Something in the person’s environment (such as dust mites or other allergens) may trigger the condition in someone who has never had it before. Symptoms of eczema Eczema is a skin condition that can be extremely frustrating for those who suffer from it.
Read More
Nasal Polyps – Symptoms, Triggers, and Management

Nasal Polyps – Symptoms, Triggers, and Management

Nasal Polyps are a significantly underrated problem. Most people only experience minor symptoms, so the polyps are often left untreated until they cause more problems. This article will look at the triggers, symptoms, and management of nasal polyps in more detail. We will start by looking at nasal polyps and what causes them. Finally, we will look at the best ways to treat nasal polyps to ensure that one gets rid of them quickly and safely. What are nasal polyps? Nasal polyps are benign growths on the nasal septum, the cartilage that separates one’s nose from the throat. They’re usually harmless but can cause problems if they block the nasal airway or make breathing difficult. Symptoms of nasal polyps Following are some symptoms of nasal polyps: Headaches Nasal polyps may cause headaches due to their enlarged blood vessels in the skull. The pressure from these enlarged vessels may cause pain behind one’s eyes or along the temples. Snoring Snoring is often caused by an obstruction of airflow through the nose during sleep. This obstruction causes the throat to vibrate, producing a noise known as snoring. Nasal congestion When mucus accumulates in the nose due to blocked airflow, it can cause nasal congestion and an unpleasant smell called rhinorrhea (a discharge from the nose).
Read More
10 Effective Tips for Managing Ulcerative Colitis

10 Effective Tips for Managing Ulcerative Colitis

Chronic inflammation of the large intestine, or ulcerative colitis , is a devastating and exhausting disease that can wreak havoc on every aspect of one’s life. From physical health to mental well-being, ulcerative colitis can take a toll on overall health if left untreated. Here are simple ways to manage ulcerative colitis. By following them under a doctor’s supervision, you can take back control of life and manage the condition better. What is ulcerative colitis? Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes long-lasting inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract. UC acts on the innermost walls of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. It is a chronic condition that can last for months or even years. Types of ulcerative colitis Ulcerative proctitis is the most common type and accounts for about two-thirds of all UC cases. People with this type have frequent episodes of diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. Ulcers may form in the rectum or anus. Proctosigmoiditis is less common than ulcerative proctitis but affects more people overall because it causes more severe symptoms, such as bloody diarrhea that may lead to dehydration and malnutrition. Extensive colitis/pancolitis occurs when inflammation spreads beyond the rectum or anus to other parts of the gastrointestinal tract (large intestine and small intestine).
Read More