A damaged foundation is a major problem for your home. When the structural integrity of your foundation becomes unsound, your floors and walls can begin to buckle, slowly warping the shape of your home. A home in this condition will gradually become more uncomfortable to live in and will have little chance of selling at a desirable price on the housing market.
Luckily, a general contractor can ameliorate a damaged foundation. Because foundation problems usually involve water seepage as well, and water in your home is a prime source of mold, you should consider hiring a mold removal and remediation expert as well.
But before you can take steps to reverse the damage, you first must be able to recognize it.
Cracks and Gaps
One of the major signs that your foundation needs repairs is the appearance of cracks in various surfaces in your home. Cracks running through brick, concrete, or dry wall are signs that the structure of your home has been damaged and is shifting. Gaps that appear at the points at which walls and ceilings or walls and floor meet are further signs of a settling house.
Bowed Floors and Walls
When your foundation loses its integrity, all of the supporting structures that depend on it begin to lose their shapes as well. Uneven floors and walls that bow or bend are signs that something is wrong underneath your home. Likewise, windows and doors that won’t open properly indicate floors and walls that are out of alignment and point toward a structural problem with the foundation.
Repairing Your Foundation
If your home shows signs of having a damaged foundation, you should be concerned, but don’t panic. A general contractor can reinforce your walls and floors, drain off the invading water at the root of the problem, and begin a program of mold removal and remediation. With the right help, you can be sure of having a comfortable, good looking house for years to come.