Your Home’s Foundation Matters
Your home’s foundation is one of the most critical components of its structural integrity. Over time, foundation problems can develop due to shifting soil, water damage, and natural settling. If left unaddressed, these issues can lead to costly repairs and even compromise your home’s safety.
So, how do you know if your foundation needs professional attention? Here are the top five warning signs that indicate your East Texas home may need foundation repair.
1. Cracks in Walls, Floors, or Ceiling
One of the most common indicators of foundation damage is cracking. While small, hairline cracks are normal due to natural settling, large, horizontal, or stair-step cracks in walls, ceilings, or floors could signal a foundation shift.
What to look for:
- Cracks wider than 1/8 inch
- Horizontal cracks in brick or drywall
- Stair-step cracks in brick or block walls
- Gaps forming where walls meet the ceiling
Learn more: Our Foundation Repair Services
2. Doors and Windows That Stick or Won’t Close Properly
Have you noticed that doors and windows are harder to open or close? When a foundation shifts, it can cause misalignment, making doors and windows difficult to operate.
What to check:
- Doors that no longer latch properly
- Windows that stick or have gaps
- Interior doors that swing open or shut on their own
Related service: House Leveling Solutions
3. Uneven or Sloping Floors
If your home’s floors feel uneven, bouncy, or sloped, it could be a result of foundation movement. A shifting foundation can cause the floor joists to warp or sink, leading to an unstable walking surface.
How to check for uneven floors:
- Use a level to check for sloping
- Roll a ball across the floor—if it moves in one direction, there could be an issue
- Look for separations between the floor and baseboards
Explore: Pier & Beam Foundation Repair
4. Gaps Between Walls and the Exterior or Interior of Your Home
If you’re seeing gaps between walls, windows, or doors, this is a sign that your foundation may be shifting. In severe cases, you might even notice a separation between your home’s brickwork and exterior siding.
Common signs of foundation-related gaps:
- Space forming between cabinets and walls
- Gaps between crown molding and the ceiling
- Exterior walls pulling away from the house
Need help? Request a Free Foundation Inspection
5. Standing Water Near Your Home’s Foundation
Water is a foundation’s worst enemy. Poor drainage around your home can lead to excess moisture, which causes soil expansion and contraction—a major cause of foundation damage.
Look for these water-related issues:
- Pooling water around your foundation
- Soil erosion near your home’s perimeter
- Water stains in your crawl space or basement
Solution: Proper drainage and grading can prevent foundation damage.
Related service: Drainage Solutions for Foundation Protection
What to Do If You Notice These Signs
If you recognize one or more of these warning signs, don’t wait! Early detection can prevent costly repairs down the road. At Rite-Way Foundation, we specialize in foundation repair in East Texas, providing expert assessments and tailored solutions.
Call us today at [YOUR PHONE NUMBER] for a free foundation inspection!
Serving East Texas, Longview, Tyler, Carthage, Palestine, Huntsville, Jasper, Lufkin, Livingston, Nacogdoches, The Woodlands, and Conroe
- More on foundation issues from the National Foundation Repair Association