Slab Foundation Problems in Raleigh NC

Many people choose not to do anything for slab foundation repair even if the damage becomes increasingly noticeable. The most common reason for that is because they are worried about the cost. Ignoring a slab foundation problem will only make things worse over time.

Preventive measures can be very helpful. Using gutters that channel water away from the foundation is a good idea. Many builders pour concrete over back fill. Although it might be helpful, future slab foundation problems can still occur.

When the slab foundation to a house shifts, it effects the house also. Often it causes wood beams that are joined together to pull apart or to be pressed together even harder. That can effect anything else that’s secured to the frame of the house and make the floors uneven. In some cases slab foundation problems can cause a whole house to collapse.

Cracks In The Foundation

Cracks in the foundation of a house are usually the sign many search for when they are searching for signs of slab foundation problems. Often a carpet or a floor covering will have to be removed before they can be seen.

Not all cracks in the foundation are indications of potential danger. Hairline cracks are commonly seen on slab foundations and aren’t considered as being a sign of something worse. Any crack that is less than 2 mm wide is not considered as being serious enough to worry about. Small cracks can become larger over time. In many cases it can be helpful to mark certain cracks that aren’t 2 mm wide so they can be checked periodically to see if they become wider.

A U.S. nickel is 2 mm wide and it’s easier for many to tell how serious a foundation crack is by using it, rather than a ruler, because it will slide into any crack that’s too wide. Another thing to pay attention to when examining cracks in the foundation is the sides of it. If one side of the crack is lower than the other, then it’s a sign that one side of the foundation has already lowered further down into the ground.

Other Telltale Signs

The carpet doesn’t always need to be pulled up to check for slab foundation problems. Another way to check for problems is by opening and closing the doors and windows in the house. If the doors and windows are too hard to shut or are getting stuck, then it can be a sign that slab foundation repair might be needed. It’s also good to check the gap at the top of a closed door the door frame to see if it isn’t even.

It’s good to check the wall along the sides of the door and window frames. If there is a slab foundation problem that needs repair, there will often be jagged cracks in the sheetrock.