It is critical to know when your foundation is damaged and seek consultation with our repair specialists, but it isn’t always easy to interpret the signs. We can help you determine the signs of foundation damage in Des Moines.
Cracking Foundation
Foundation and basement wall cracks are a common sign of foundation damage, but they aren’t always a reason to worry. Cracks are common in areas where the temperature drops below freezing, such as Des Moines. Old homes also tend to have many cracks as proof of their age rather than foundation damage.
While small cracks, less than 1/8 of an inch in width are typically cosmetic, it is important to identify large and growing cracks as possible signs of foundation damage.
The foundation and basement are not the only locations where you may see cracks. Kitchen and bathroom tiles, masonry, chimneys, plaster walls, and concrete stairs, typically crack due to foundation movements. Any large or growing cracks should be evaluated by our foundation specialists in Des Moines.
Cracks are typically related to moisture around the foundation. Saturated soils enter the pores of the concrete foundation and can exploit and expand cracks. Saturated soils can also cause the bowing of basement walls.
Un-level or Misaligned Structure
A home that is un-level or visually tilting in one direction is likely a sign of foundation damage in Des Moines. Differential settlement is a major cause of an un-level or tilted foundation. Frost heave and moisture-related damage can also be a contributor, vertically shifting the soils beneath the home.
Along with un-level foundations, misalignment is also a common sign of foundation problems. Plumbing fixtures, windows, and doors that are no longer flush with the walls can mean the foundation is experiencing movement. Windows and doors may not close properly or become difficult to open if the foundation shifts.
Sticking doors or windows may not always be a result of foundation damage. Sticking doors and windows are common when the humidity is high, and loose door hinges commonly cause doors to not shut properly. It is essential to consider the humidity and check the door hinge for play before calling our foundation repair experts in Des Moines.
Basement Moisture
Puddles, pools, or floods in the basement are common signs of foundation problems in Des Moines. Saturated soils can enter pores and cracks in the concrete foundation or cinder block basement walls. It can cause excess moisture in the basement and further damage the foundation by exploiting cracks.
Moisture in the basement can also be caused by leaky pipes. Plumbing lines beneath the foundation can leak from foundation movements and result in pooling or dampness. When moisture enters the basement it can cause mildew scents and mold growth. Pests like centipedes, millipedes, and cockroaches are also drawn to damp basements. Our Des Moines foundation repair experts commonly respond to basement and foundation moisture.