10 Signs Your Home Is in Need of Slab Foundation Repair in VA or NC

As the earth beneath us shifts, so do the trends in home construction — over 67% of new single-family homes utilize the solid embrace of slab foundations. But what happens when that steadfast support starts to show signs of stress?

Your living space rests upon it, and the slightest crack could mean a call for slab foundation repair. A habitable home requires a solid foundation free of damage, and recognizing the early warning signs can save you from future headaches.

In the rolling terrains of VA and NC, let’s hammer down on the top 10 indicators that your slab foundation may need some professional attention.

1. Cracks in the Walls and Floors

One sign of foundation problems is the presence of cracks in your home’s walls, floors, or ceilings. Changes in soil composition beneath your foundation can lead to shifting or settling, causing cracks. These cracks may start small but can worsen if left unaddressed.

Pay attention to diagonal cracks, especially near doorways or windows. You should also check for any horizontal fissures in the walls. Additionally, keep an eye out for brick cracks in your home’s exterior.

If you notice any of these issues, get in touch with professional foundation repair in VA or NC promptly. It will help you prevent further damage.

2. Doors and Windows That Stick

Are you having trouble opening and closing your windows and doors?
If the soil around your home isn’t properly compacted during construction, it can settle over time. Settling of the foundation can cause structural elements to become misaligned.

As the foundation moves, the frames of your doors and windows can shift out of their original positions. This can result in sticking or jamming.

Misaligned doors and windows are symptomatic of foundation issues.
If you notice that your doors and windows are sticking, have your foundation inspected by experts. They can assess the cause of the problem and recommend solutions to address it.

3. Sloping or Sagging

When walking through your home, it should feel steady and level. However, if you notice areas where the floor seems slanted or sagging, it may be a red flag for foundation problems.

Uneven floors are often caused by uneven settling of the foundation. This can occur due to issues like hydrostatic pressure, soil shrinkage, and poorly compacted soil. As a result, you may experience sloping or sagging floors.

To identify uneven floors, place a marble on your floor and see which direction it moves toward. If your floors are uneven, contact a foundation inspector for a home assessment as soon as possible.

4. Gaps Around Doors and Windows

Check for gaps between door and window frames and the walls or floors in your home. When your foundation shifts, it can cause the frames of doors and windows to pull away from their original positions. This leads to gaps between your window and door frames.

Since they allow drafts to enter, these gaps can affect your home’s energy efficiency. They can also serve as entry points for pests and moisture, causing further damage to your home.

If you notice gaps around your doors and windows, ensure you address the underlying foundation issues. A foundation repair company will help you maintain the integrity of your home.

5. Visible Evidence of Movement

While slab foundations are generally stable, they can experience movement and settlement. This can lead to visible signs of damage. Here are some of the most common visible signs of foundation movement in your home:

• Exterior stair-step brick cracks
• Gapping or separation of exterior trims
• Bulging and bowing of the foundation
• Movement of wood trim/built-ins and other inside fixtures

These visible signs of movement in slab foundations may be due to soil expansion and moisture. If you notice them, call the experts. They may try underpinning, slab jacking, or other foundation repair techniques.

6. Mold or Mildew Growth

Excessive moisture beneath your foundation can lead to mold and mildew growth inside your home. If you see them forming on walls or ceilings, it may indicate a moisture problem.

Mold problems often stem from underlying foundation issues such as cracks or improper drainage. If left unchecked, mold and mildew can exacerbate existing foundation problems. This is why you should hire a slab foundation repair company in VA or NC.

7. Damaged Porch or Stoop

Your home’s porch or stoop is often exposed to the elements. As a result, it is vulnerable to foundation-related damage. If you observe cracks, sinking, or unevenness in these structures, it may be a sign of foundation issues.

Addressing these problems with foundation experts can help prevent further deterioration. This will help restore the stability of your home’s exterior features.

8. Leaning or Tilting Chimney

A chimney that leans or tilts is a clear indication of foundation settlement. As the foundation shifts, it can cause the chimney to separate from the rest of the house. This can lead to instability and safety concerns.

If you notice your chimney exhibiting signs of displacement, hire foundation repair contractors. They can prevent further damage to your foundation.

9. Bowing Basement Walls

If your home has a basement, bowing walls are a common symptom of foundation issues. As the soil exerts pressure on the basement walls, they may begin to bow or bulge inward.

Left unaddressed, this can compromise your home’s structural integrity. To protect your basement, ask for professional assistance from foundation repair experts without delay.

10. Unexplained Water Damage

Look for signs of water damage inside your home, such as stains on walls or ceilings. These signs may be a sign of foundation issues. The unexplained water damage in your home may be due to cracks in the foundation.

Water entering through foundation cracks can worsen foundation problems. Ensure you address the issue before it becomes costly.

Work With Expert Slab Foundation Repair Contractors

A solid foundation is the cornerstone of a safe and stable home. When foundation problems arise, they can compromise the structural integrity of your home. Is your home showing signs of foundation problems?

BAY Crawl Space and Foundation Repair has got you covered. We’re the top-rated slab foundation repair experts in VA and NC. Our team will conduct a thorough home assessment and facilitate the necessary repairs to prevent further damage.

Reach out to us touch with us to get a free inspection.