Whether or not you currently own a home or are going through a Tampa home inspection, a home with a cracked foundation is not good news. There can be many reasons for cracking foundation in the floors or walls, some less serious than others, though all should be inspected by a trained Tampa home inspector. If you are buying a home or already own a home that may have issues, here is what to look for and what to do.
Exterior cracks
This is by far the easiest way to determine if you may have foundational cracking before a Tampa home inspector even comes out. Many homes will be surrounded by a slab of concrete, so if this is cracking that could indicate further issues. You can also walk the perimeter of the home to check for cracks along the walls. These may be from settling, a natural process, or they could point to structural problems.
Sloping floors
This sign may be less obvious if you aren’t really paying attention but can present itself if the cracks are more severe. Sloping floors can lead to misaligned doors, water drainage problems and cracking or damage to floor coverings. You may even run into problems with staircases, suggesting the foundation is cracked and warping.
If you have these or other signs of foundational cracks, call a trained professional. If you believe the cracks are minor, you can consult your local inspector to see if there are other causes for concern. You may also want to work with a structural engineer, who can determine the exact severity of the cracking and the damage that has been done to the home. Some cracking is natural as the earth settles beneath your home, and if small, these should not cause panic. Other cracks, those that are larger in size, should be taken seriously as they can product severe damage to your home if left untreated.
Concerned about foundational problems in your potential dream home? Call Radiant Property Inspections today and we can take a look. Our dedicated staff is ready to help and answer your questions.
