What are some common structural and foundation issues in a home?
What are some common structural and foundation issues in a home?*
The house is the most expensive investment one makes in life. When home inspectors do a visual inspection of any property, they look for many issues. Here is a list of such issues.
1. Negative drainage
Home inspectors check if the home is situated on a negative gradient slope towards the foundation. In such cases, water penetration is likely to damage the foundation.
2. Large trees nearby
Home inspectors also check if there is a large tree nearby. Large trees should be at least 10 feet away from the home to prevent any root or moisture damage to the foundation.
3. Foundation cracks and fractures
Cracks and fractures are tell-tale signs of foundation problems. So, a home inspector always checks if there is any visible crack. It includes horizontal cracks, diagonal cracks, brick/mortar joint cracks, and stair-step cracks.
4. Settling or sinking foundation
In case the house has settling or sinking issues, it could be a foundation problem. It leads to major structural changes and shows up cracks.
5. Foundation upheaval
It is opposite to settlement and happens when typical soil condition raises the house high. The home inspectors check this as it is another sign of foundation problems.
6. Windows and doors are not opening properly
Windows and doors are the weakest and most susceptible parts of a house structure. And for this, they show the first sign of structural and foundation problems. That is why the home inspectors look for this.
7. Gaps in exterior window frames and doors
In most cases, such issues arise out of foundation problems. It is why the home inspectors look for it.
8. Sagging or uneven floors
Home inspectors check this because it can happen due to foundation problems, improper construction, and/or improper repairs. These may also lead to visible cracks.
9. Damp crawl space
Heavy moisture in the crawl space is an indication of developing a foundation problem. It is also a sign that the wooden beams beneath started to rot due to excessive moisture and could lead to major issues.
10. Separating counters and cabinets
Home inspectors also check for tilting cabinets as they could be signs of foundation damage. Such things indicate that everything is sloping and not hanging correctly.
11. Bowing or leaning walls
Home inspectors are also fastidious about these. It is because these strongly indicate foundation problems.
12. Sagging roof
Sagging roofs are the biggest deal-breakers and that is why the home inspectors always take note of this. It is a strong indication of structural inadequacy and can cause multiple problems to the property.
13. Insect infestations
Termites and similar pests are the silent destroyers of a home. It is why the home inspectors check for this minutely.
14. Moisture related damage
Most buildings fail due to the presence of moisture. It is why home inspectors always check for any water intrusion.
Summing up
A home inspection is the most stressful part of the selling process. One should, therefore, deal with these problems at the earliest, so that the home does not fail in the inspection.
A Home Inspection Frequently Asked Question
*Disclaimer: This article has been written by a third party and permission has been granted to Charlottetown Home Inspections to publish the article on this website. As such, the article is provided for general information and educational purposes only, and does not constitute advice. Charlottetown Home Inspections cannot vouch for the accuracy or completeness of the information. The reader is encouraged to do his or her own due diligence and additional research, and to speak to a professional home inspector for the most up to date, accurate and reliable information.
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