Dealing with a sinking foundation or cracked basement walls in your Muncie home is a headache. It can be confusing and even scary. But figuring out common foundation problems in Muncie, Indiana, is essential.

That way you can address the issue early on before it becomes a bigger, more costly fix. This article is about those common foundation problems in Muncie, Indiana.

Causes of Foundation Problems in Muncie

Before looking at solutions, let’s explore the common causes of foundation problems in Muncie.

Soil Composition and Drainage

Poor drainage around your home exacerbates the expansion and contraction of soil.

These changes create pressure on foundations, leading to cracks and shifts. This can lead to foundation damage and even foundation failure.

Age and Construction Quality

Like people, houses age. Over time, building materials deteriorate, leading to foundation issues.

Poor construction practices during your home’s original build, like inadequate foundation waterproofing or improper grading, can cause future troubles.

Plumbing Leaks

A hidden plumbing leak can erode the soil around your foundation.

This erosion can slowly cause your home to settle unevenly, creating pressure points that eventually show up as foundation problems.

Tree Roots

While beautiful, mature trees in your yard could be secretly undermining your foundation.

Tree roots grow aggressively seeking water, disrupting the soil around your home’s foundation and leading to unpredictable movement and damage.

Temperature Fluctuations

Muncie experiences extreme Midwest temperature swings, from frigid winters to scorching summers. This results in continuous freeze-thaw cycles.

Over time, that causes stress, leading to cracking, and other foundation problems.

5 Signs of Foundation Problems in Muncie

Here are a few signs that you might need foundation repairs in Muncie, IN.

1. Sticking Doors and Windows

As your home shifts on its foundation, it can warp door and window frames. This causes doors and windows to stick, becoming hard to open and close. It indicates that the foundation is experiencing pressure.

Image shows a sticking window, one of the signs you may have foundation issues.

2. Cracks in Walls and Ceilings

Diagonal cracks often show up on interior walls and ceilings as the foundation moves.

While small cracks are normal in an aging house, large, growing, or numerous cracks might be a sign of a larger problem with the foundation.

Image shows a cracked wall which often requires foundation repairs.

3. Uneven or Sloping Floors

Uneven floors are a pretty obvious indication that your foundation isn’t sitting level. They could be sloping. You might also notice bouncy spots on the floor.

If you suspect this issue, place a marble on the floor and see if it rolls downhill. This is a simple way to tell if you have uneven floors and need foundation repair services.

Image shows uneven floors which point to foundation inspection.

4. Gaps Between Walls, Ceilings, and Floors

Similar to sticking windows, gaps around trim, walls, or where floors meet the walls often mean your home has shifted on its foundation. It’s worth a professional inspection if you notice these gaps growing.

The image shows a gap in the wall, which is often a sign of foundation issues.

5. Foundation Wall Issues

Take the time to look closely at your foundation. Are there any cracks wider than a hairline? Notice if your basement walls are bowing inward, pushing in as the surrounding soil exerts pressure.

Any bulging in the basement walls should raise a red flag too. You will want to look for a local foundation repair contractor like Crossroads Foundation Repair that offers a free estimate.

Image shows a cracked foundation wall which needs professional inspection.

FAQs About Common Foundation Problems In Muncie Indiana

Not necessarily; some settlement is normal, but significant or rapid changes should be assessed by a professional.

Homeowners should inspect their foundations at least once a year and after significant weather events.

Yes, foundation problems caused by lack of maintenance or gradual settling can decrease the value of your home.

Turn to Crossroads for A Healthy Foundation

Ignoring the common foundation problems in Muncie Indiana won’t make them disappear. Take a proactive approach by understanding these potential threats to your property and recognizing the red flags that signal a possible issue.

Addressing foundation problems starts with choosing the right contractor. Crossroads Foundation Repair has expertise in fixing foundation issues common to Muncie. Our team of experts are hands-on specialists who will go the extra mile to make your foundation healthy and secure for years to come.

Call us today for a free quote.