You have heard the term “Home away from home,” and no, it is not just a cliche because home is everything for most people. When they have to be away for a road trip or business trip, they are very much connected to their homes and crave its warmth in other places of retreat, and for some homeowners, they will still end up saying, “Oh! There is no place like home.”
Aside from the shelter and comfort, a home provides, and the fact that it can be passed on, as an inheritance, some homes are their owners biggest investment. So then, when they see articles like this one that further highlights how to protect and preserve their homes, they are quick to jump at it.
That said, when the house has a foundation problem, for instance, that is a big deal, and you want to have it fixed before it causes more damages but, how do you even know when there is a foundation problem?
Is it always so glaring, and what are the signs to look out for?
Well, that is easy, and you can find out more here:
1. Look out for cracks in the wall or floor
It is somewhat easy to identify this one, especially when you start out by checking your windows. Keep in mind that some of the cracks you see near the door frames and windows of your home are a result of the expansion of the drywall. So, don’t panic when you spot it. A spackling paint can fix that up but, if it is a horizontal crack or even a stair-step crack, that could be a sign that there is a water build-up behind the foundation and the best time to call an expert for help.
2. Examine The Walls
It should be a thing of concern when the walls of the house starts to shift. Don’t wave it off because that is an indication that the foundation is shifting too, which could result in a collapse of the entire house. When you begin to see a part of the wall pulling away from the rest of the house, be smart enough to seek professional advice.
3. Identify Sources Of Mold
When mold starts to build up around the house, it is a clear sign that moisture is equally accumulating. Check the areas that are prone to mold damages, then map out the areas that could be letting the water in. You are also likely to see the crack or gap caused by a foundation problem in the process.
4. Inspect Your Windows
Take an inspection walk around your house, and try to open and close your windows and doors. If you notice that they are not closing easily, that is because the foundation of the house is starting to shift, and it is moving the window and door frame. Look out for an expert around or ask your friends and family to refer someone who can help you fix it.
5. Inspect Your Chimney
A house that has been for more than 30 years is more likely to have this foundation problem. When the chimney begins to shift or look off-kilter, you know that trouble is calling. Get professional help before it affects the whole structure.
6. Identify Nails Popping Out Of Drywall
Here is another sign that you should not ignore. If you see a nail sticking out of the drywall, that might not be an issue but, when you start to notice a lot of them, it is time to sound the alarm because it is a sure sign of a foundation problem.
7. Look For Cracked Tiles
Tiles can be fragile and therefore break easily. However, when you begin to notice several cracks in your wall tiles, without being able to identify the cause, you may have to seek professional advice because that might be another foundation problem rearing its head.
8. Look Out For Uneven Floors
In the case of an uneven floor in your home, that could be another foundation damage. How do you know when the ground is beginning to get uneven? Try this: Spill some water in the areas you think are dissimilar, if the water flows freely in one direction, then the floor is irregular, and you should check it.
9. Check On The Expansion Joint Separation Of Your Home
The expansion joints are installed in every home to make up for changing weather conditions like rain, humidity, etc. However, when the foundation cracks, it could result in a separation of the expansion joint, which further results in more cracking.
10. Investigate The Gaps Between Walls And Exterior Walls
A gap between these walls of your window and front door is another indication that your foundation is shifting and will need repairs. If you do not quickly attend to it, it can become an entry point for water and home destroying insects like termites.
With these tips in mind, you may have more concerns on how to best handle these foundation repairs especially because they rarely give you an early notice.
Remember that most of these problems already require that you have a home inspection to be able to identify them. When your home is insured, you can rest assured these repairs would not end up being a burdensome task.
HOW HOME INSURANCE CAN HELP YOU BEAR FOUNDATION DAMAGES
A standard homeowner’s policy provides protection for your home just against explicit, recognized perils. According to theAA Insurance, it’s crucial to read your home insurance policy’s revelations page to know what hazards are named.
In the event that your foundation damage is the consequence of a secured chance — such as a tornado, explosion, or fire — your homeowner’s policy may reimburse you for the repairs up to your coverage limits
If you live in places in Ireland that are prone to natural disasters, you can consult with foundation specialists, to help you determine what system is best to adopt. Also, check your policy declaration page to see what perils are named and how to take advantage of them.
