What’s the Difference Between Foundation Problems and Settling?

May 16, 2021

Purchasing a home is a major investment. That’s why it’s imperative to ensure your Mississauga home is structurally sound and solid so that you can avoid any surprises down the road. The structural integrity is quite literally the foundation of your home, generally comprised of concrete and steel. Over time, the wear and tear from the elements and other various factors can erode and weaken that foundation. But the problem is being aware of when something needs to be addressed, and knowing what the difference between foundation problems and settling? Here’s some info to help you determine the difference and how they should be addressed.

Signs of Settling

Envision the Leaning Tower of Pisa. It’s the most common example of settling. This is something that occurs naturally over time to the foundation of your home – although not as extreme as in Pisa – or any building, as the combination of weather and soil cause it to shift.

Soil conditions and weather are the two major factors that cause this to happen. Soil can expand and contract as the moisture levels within it change, causing whatever is on top of the soil to move with it. But not all settling is bad. In fact, it is a natural process that occurs to most foundations. The important factor is knowing when it is severe and in need of attention. That’s where your foundation comes into play.

But if you begin to notice your windows or doors starting to jam or stick all of a sudden, this could highlight some structural problems due to shifting and settling that may need some attention.

Foundation Problems

Foundation problems can result from a variety of factors, including settling.  If settling goes unnoticed or unaddressed, it can lead to a damaged foundation in the future.

Some additional signs and causes of poor foundation can be found most commonly in visible cracks along walls, above doorways and windows. Look above and below, from ceiling to floor for any noticeable signs. Particularly, when you start to notice any horizontal cracks, it might be time to hire a professional to assess the situation.

So if you start to notice any minor cracks developing throughout your Mississauga home, it’s important to take note and monitor them. It’s always a good idea to measure and assess them a few months later to see whether they’ve grown. Any sudden door jams or horizontal cracks might need more immediate attention. If you’re unsure about the structural integrity of your home, call up your local foundation repair company in the Mississauga area to advise you on how to proceed.

With these tips, you will be better prepared to take on a foundation waterproofing project. If you have any questions or require a free foundation consultation on your home, contact The Crack Doctor today!

Latest Foundation Crack Repair Tips

crack doctor expert beside sump pump

More About Waterproofing Your Home