Foundation damage doesn’t usually happen suddenly. It’s a gradual process that stays mostly hidden from view.

However, that doesn’t mean the early warning signs of foundation damage are 100 percent invisible.

If you know what to look for, it’s possible to spot many of the red flags. Often, these signs aren’t limited to the foundation itself. Telltale symptoms can manifest elsewhere in the house — even on the upper floors.

Below are just some of the ways to spot foundation failure before it’s too late.

The Early Warning Signs of Foundation Damage

It’s important to remember that all houses settle over time. You shouldn’t be too concerned about occasional creaking or groaning. These are entirely natural.

Here are foundation damage signs that should raise alarms:

1. Water Damage

Any signs of water damage in or around your home need to be addressed as soon as possible:

• External water that doesn’t drain properly is both a cause and symptom of foundation damage. Be on the lookout for unusually wet ground during the dry season and parched soil after heavy rains.
• Internally — check for mold, rot and other signs of possible leaks behind the walls. You should also inspect your plumbing system, toilets and taps for potential leaks.

2. Uneven Floors and Walls

Warped floors, crumbling bricks and cracks in the wall are all worrying signs that your foundation might already be compromised. Conduct thorough inspections — inside and out — top to bottom.

Even sagging chimneys are a common sign of foundation damage.

3. Poorly Fitting Doors and Windows

Do you have windows that no longer close the way they used to close? Is your front door letting cold air enter?

Then your house isn’t just settling. It’s shifting, due to a compromised foundation.

Worse still, you’re likely wasting money on heating and cooling.

What to Do If You See Signs of Foundation Damage?

The moment you discover any of the above warning signs, you should bring in a foundation repair contractor as soon as possible.

That’s because this type of damage doesn’t go away on its own. In fact, it’ll likely become worse, creating even more problems throughout your home. Consequently, your foundation damage repair cost will be significantly higher. Moreover, you’ll also have to pay extra to resolve any secondary issues like leaks, cracks and shifted doorframes.

Yet whereas foundation damage inspections may be a DIY job, the repair process isn’t. This is why you need a trained professional who can assess the scope of the damage and recommend the most appropriate course of action.

Ideally, whomever you choose should be local. This is because the underlying causes of foundation damage are often region-specific. Variables like soil composition, climate and even architectural styles can all change dramatically as you move around the country.

At Foundation Repair Services, we operate primarily in the Carolinas and Southeast — a region known for its unusually heavy rainfall, expansive clay soil varieties, and landslides.

If you live in one of our service areas and suspect your home could be at risk, schedule a free consultation with our foundation damage repair team today.