A home holds the greatest value for a family. It is also an expensive investment you will make. Therefore, protecting it at all costs is absolutely necessary. Any construction issues are comparatively less dangerous than foundation problems. The foundation is critical to the longevity of the building and you should be aware of the common signs of foundation problems.
In these cases, the expertise of engineering consultants in Chennai is essential. They would recognize the symptoms at an early stage before they turn into a cause for concern. Here are some of the telltale signs of foundation problems.
1 – Exterior cracks and fissures
Not all cracks on the building need elaborate action. Some of them can be fixed with a layer of plaster. But, some cracks signal foundation problems. This begs the question of how to know whether it’s a benign crack or a serious one. You need to take action if there are:
- Long horizontal cracks on the wall
- Cracks that are wider than ¼ inch
- Diagonal cracks on doorframe corners
- Cracks that seem to grow bigger as time progresses
When you start noticing these signs, take the assistance of structural design consultants in Chennai to fix the issue.
2 – Foundation settling
Foundation sinking is a clear sign that your house needs immediate attention. If you observe that one side of the house is lower than the other, or the middle of the house is sinking, then you need the help of structural consultants in Chennai. They would suggest lifting the foundation and installing interior or exterior foundation piers.
Your house may react to foundation settling differently based on the type and quality of the foundation. For instance, slab foundation does not react to sinking as much as beam and piers foundations.
3 – Foundation upheaval
The upward force due to expansion or contraction in the soil is foundation upheaval. It is the opposite of foundation settling. It can affect the perimeter of the concrete slab. In addition to that, you can also see the effect in the interiors like doorways and hallways.
Slab foundations can move upwards to an extent of 1’ – 2’. Excess moisture due to heavy rains or pipe leaks under the slab is the main cause.
4 – Uneven doors
If you have trouble getting to align your doors or closing them, your foundation is the problem. Interior doors might become sticky or drag at the top. For instance, the top left side would stand a little higher than the right. Therefore, you need to consult a structural engineer in Chennai to fix the issue.
5 – Expansion joint separation
The expansion joint provides for extra movement caused by variations in temperature, humidity, or shifting of the earth. This joint can separate when the foundation is having some issues. It causes major cracks on the inside and outside walls of the house.
6 – Sagging floors
If the floor appears to be uneven or sagging, then it is a sign that your foundation is failing. In pier or beam foundations, floors squeak or sag while in concrete slabs, it becomes uneven. What may start as a ½’ unevenness can easily go up to 1 ½ to 2’ over time.
At Jacob Engineers, a team of exceptional structural consultants will evaluate the nature and level of foundational damage and render corrective measures. Consult our experts today!