Let’s face it—foundation issues can lead to some pretty costly repairs. And unfortunately, the unique climate and topography of New Orleans can create some unsavory problems for your home. If you suspect that your house is sinking, here are some common problems to look out for…and how to fix them.
Cracks and Fractures
Can you see any noticeable cracks in your foundation? If so, it might be time to take a closer look. Cracks, fractures, or splits in your foundation can all spell trouble for your home. However, not all of them are necessarily bad. It’s normal to have shrinkage cracks in poured concrete foundations—these will occur within a year after construction. However, if you find quite a few cracks or see ones that grow larger over time, it’s best to call in a professional.
Be sure to look out for cracks in walls above windows and door frames, too. If you have to keep repairing drywall in these areas, it’s usually due to your foundation settling.
An Uneven Floor
Is your floor is looking a little wobbly? Uneven floors are another telltale sign of foundation issues, and it’s best to address them right away. Even if you don’t have any cracks or settlement, you may also have sagging floor joists—and that’s another major structural issue that will need to be repaired.
Don’t forget to check your basement for any unevenness, too. Concrete flooring that isn’t level can cause your entire foundation to sink, and these problems will always get worse over time.
Sticking Doors and Windows
If you’ve noticed your doors and windows sticking more than usual, the problem could be bigger than you think. A sinking or settling foundation can actually cause doors and windows to fall out of square. Of course, they could just be sticking due to humidity, which is pretty common here in New Orleans.
Want an easy way to make sure your doors and windows are structurally sound? Take a level and place it on top of the frame—if it’s not even, your problems could stem from a foundation issue.
What Can I Do?
Dealing with foundation issues can seem pretty scary—after all, it’s the structure that supports your entire home! Although these issues are fixable, they tend to be pretty expensive. However, if you catch them in time, you’ll save a lot of money in the long run.
Even if you’re a seasoned DIYer, you should leave all foundation repairs to the pros. If you have any problems, consider hiring a structural engineer to take a look at your home. They can steer you in the right direction and help you diagnose any problems!
Need More Homeowner Tips?
If you’re looking for more advice on homeownership, real estate, or anything in between, we’d love to offer you our expertise. The Nugent-Freeland Team has all the resources you’ve been looking for, so feel free to reach out with any questions. We can also help you buy or sell your New Orleans home, too!