The heart of the Midwest is no stranger to a wide range of winter conditions. The climate variations we experience in Lafayette, IN can have a significant impact on the foundations of homes and buildings in the area.
If left unattended, some of these common foundation problems can lead to costly repairs.
On the other hand, if you spot these symptoms early, most can be remedied quickly with reliable solutions.
1. Settling Soil
This is one of the most common foundation issues in Lafayette, IN. The soil here is primarily clay-based.
That means it is highly expansive in moisture and shrinks when the ground dries up. This expansion and contraction causes your foundation to settle unevenly.
If you notice cracks in your walls or foundation, you may have settling soil underneath your home. Other symptoms may include doors and windows that don’t close properly or uneven flooring. When any of these signs show up, immediate foundation repair is necessary.
2. Water Damage
In Lafayette, IN, we enjoy both heavy rainfall and snow during the winter. This can lead to water-related foundation problems.
If your foundation lacks adequate drainage or waterproofing, the moisture can seep into the foundation and weaken the structure.
Signs of water damage include mold growth, a damp basement, or a musty odor throughout the home. Usually, a sump pump is the best defense against foundation moisture. Interior waterproofing may also provide additional protection.
3. Frost Heaving
You may notice that your doors or windows do not close properly, your floors are sloping, or you have visible cracks in your foundation walls.
These can all be due to the freezing and thawing of your soil. During a frost heave, the soil around your foundation can exert enough pressure actually to cause cracking.
The best remedy for frost heaving is increasing the insulation and frost protection of your home.
4. Poor Construction
In some cases, the foundation problems can start way before the home is even built. Poor construction materials,, or inadequate workmanship can lead to foundation issues.
Sagging beams, uneven floors or visible deterioration without any other obvious issue may be due to poor initial construction.
Sometimes rectifying poor construction can require extensive repairs to reinforce or replace damaged sections. It’s important to consult with a professional you trust to assess the problem.
5. Soil Erosion
Heavy moisture in the area can cause the soil around the foundation to walk away, leaving your home unsupported.
If this happens, you may find sloping or uneven terrain near the foundation, exposed foundation footings, or cracks in your exterior walls.
Grading, landscaping, and retaining walls are often the best solution to prevent further erosion of the soil.
What to Do When You Notice Foundation Problems in Your Home?
Once you notice foundation problems, there are several steps you should follow to ensure that everything is handled correctly and your home is protected:
- Step 1: Ensure the safety of your family – If you notice multiple foundation issues that are concerning to you, you might have to move temporarily until the repair is done properly. A sagging roof or walls that appear to be caving in are two major signs that you might want to find somewhere else to stay. Minor cracks and uneven floors/doors are fine for staying in the home as you find a solution.
- Step 2: Call a professional – An expert inspection is necessary to determine what exactly is the problem and establish proper repair steps. Call a local contractor you trust to help you get to the root of the issues.
- Step 3: Get several estimates – Don’t hesitate to get multiple opinions and estimates from different professionals. This will help you make an informed decision about how to proceed and ensure your home is protected.
Protect Your Lafayette, IN Property with an Expert Foundation Company
The unique climate and soil conditions of Lafayette, IN make it a common hotspot for foundation issues.
Early detection and prompt action are the best steps to preventing costly repairs to your home.
Regular inspections with a reliable Lafayette foundation repair company are recommended to preserve the integrity of your foundation for years to come.
