Hello, fellow Pittsburgh homeowners!
If your home were a human body, its foundation would be the skeleton. It holds everything up, keeps everything in place, and when it’s in good shape, you hardly ever think about it. But just like your skeleton, your home’s foundation can develop problems, and when that happens, the rest of your home feels the effects.
That’s why it’s essential to keep an eye on the health of your home’s foundation. But how can you tell if your foundation needs some TLC? Here are the top five signs that your foundation might be in need of repair.
1. Cracks in the Walls or Foundation
This one might seem obvious, but it’s not just about noticing a crack. It’s about recognizing when a crack could indicate a more serious problem. Hairline cracks can be typical in a home’s natural settling process, but large, horizontal cracks or a stair-step pattern in your brickwork can signal serious foundation issues.
2. Sticking Doors and Windows
Do you struggle to open or close your doors and windows? This could be a sign that your foundation has shifted. As the foundation moves, it can distort the frames of your doors and windows, making them harder to operate. It’s easy to dismiss sticking doors and windows as minor annoyances, but they could be your home telling you that something’s wrong down under!
3. Uneven or Sagging Floors
If you’ve noticed that your once-level floors now dip and sag, this could be due to foundation trouble. Uneven floors are not just a tripping hazard, but they can also indicate that your home’s foundation is settling unevenly.
4. Gaps Around Window Frames or Exterior Doors
Noticing a chilly draft, or that it’s easier to peek outside around the edge of your window or door? Gaps can be a sign that your home’s foundation has shifted. As the foundation moves, it can pull apart the frames of your windows and doors, creating these gaps.
5. A Leaning or Tilting Chimney
If you have a chimney, take a good look at it. Is it leaning or tilting away from your home? This can be a sign of a shifting foundation. Your chimney and your home’s foundation share a close relationship, so if one is struggling, the other probably is too.
Spotting these signs early and getting a professional inspection can save you time, money, and a lot of stress down the line. If you’ve noticed any of these top five signs, it’s a good idea to hire a professional Pittsburgh foundation repair company. Remember, it’s not just about preserving your home’s structure. It’s about protecting the place where you create memories with your family.
So, fellow Pittsburgh and South Hills homeowners, take a stroll around your property today and keep an eye out for these signs. Your home will thank you! And should you find any of these signs, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Dr. Dry. As a Pittsburgh area foundation repair business, we’ve got the expertise to keep your home standing strong for years to come.
Stay safe and dry, Pittsburgh!