As we have all heard before, “so long as the foundation is good….” Solid foundations make for solid structures and nobody wants to live in a house with shaky ground, so when we see cracks in our foundations we get a little worried. Does it need to be repaired? How extensive is the damage? What do I do now?
The truth is that you will need to call a professional if you see any cracks or signs of distress, such as bulging, in your foundation or basement walls. Contact a foundation repair company and get an estimate. As always, get several estimates and ask for, then check up on, references. If the company doesn’t have any or doesn’t want to give them to you, then right away you know this is not the company for you. Run the companies through the Better Business Bureau and Chamber of Commerce. You won’t regret getting too much information.
Note: the construction company that you choose might ask for a deposit. This is a common practice, but be cautious and avoid paying with cash by all means.
Some vertical cracks can even be repaired by the average person.
You might be interested to know that there are three main types of foundations: slab-on-grade, crawlspaces, and full-height basements. Full-height basements are the most self-explanatory: they are what provide adequate space for a person to walk around. Crawlspaces are properly named because they allow just enough room to crawl around in, provide storage, and may house a furnace. Slab-on-grade foundations are the most simple: concrete on dirt, with no space in between the structure, foundation, and soil.
While most foundations are made from concrete, some of the older homes foundations are made from stone. This can add to the “quaint” feel of an older and historic house, but most are not waterproof and will need rather consistent repair, or at the very least, constant inspection of the joints. If you live in a structure that is built on top of a stone foundation, it is wise to consult a professional mason in order to assess the solidity of the foundation and what repairs need to be made right away if any. When it comes to stone foundation construction, immediate action is the best way to insure a strong and water tight foundation.
Concrete will shrink and cure and your home will settle. This can and probably will lead to cracks in your foundation. Never try to repair cracks yourself- always call in a professional. What you have heard is true: a solid foundation makes for a solid structure. Check your foundation regularly for any cracks or bulging and your foundation will serve you for many, many decades!
home-inspection
