5027 S Commerce Dr
Murray, UT 84107
Your home’s foundation is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of the entire building. Yet, it’s an aspect of the home that often goes unnoticed—until problems arise. Foundation settlement is one of the most common issues homeowners face, and ignoring the signs can lead to serious and costly structural damage. But how do you know if your home might be dealing with foundation settlement?
This guide will help you identify the key signs of foundation settlement, understand why it occurs, and know what to do if you suspect your home is affected. At Intermountain Coatings, we’re committed to helping homeowners protect and maintain their most valuable asset—their home.
Foundation settlement happens when the soil beneath your home shifts, compresses, or weakens. This leads to parts of the foundation sinking unevenly, which in turn causes structural instabilities. Factors like water infiltration, poor soil compaction, or natural settling can all contribute to foundation settlement over time.
While some amount of settling is normal for homes, excessive foundation settlement can signal deeper issues that require professional attention.
Spotting the early signs of foundation settlement is key to preventing serious damage. Below are the most common indicators homeowners should watch for.
Cracks are one of the most visible signs of foundation settlement.
These cracks often grow larger over time, so it’s important to address them promptly.
If you notice your floors feel uneven or start sloping in certain areas, this could point to foundation movement. Use a level or even a small ball—if it rolls across the floor without cause, it might signal settlement.
When your foundation shifts, it can cause distortions in your home’s framing, making windows and doors hard to open or close. You may also notice gaps around window frames or misaligned doorways.
Inspect your home’s exterior for visible gaps or separation between the foundation and the structure it supports. Pay special attention to areas where patios, decks, or attached garages meet the main house—any widening of gaps is a red flag.
Hairline cracks may be harmless, but deeper or wider foundation cracks should never be ignored. Be on the lookout for horizontal cracks, as these may suggest pressure is causing the foundation walls to bow or buckle.
Foundation settlement can create small openings for water to seep into your basement or crawl space. Signs of water intrusion include damp walls, pooling water, or even musty odors in these areas.
A leaning or tilting chimney is often a sign of uneven settlement affecting one part of the foundation more than the other. This is a structural issue that requires immediate attention.
Foundation settlement can occur for a variety of reasons, including natural and environmental factors. Knowing the causes can help you understand why the problem may have developed and how to address it effectively.
Expansive soils that expand and shrink with moisture levels can cause instability beneath the foundation. Loose or improperly compacted soil during construction is another culprit.
Too much or too little water in the soil around your home is a common cause of foundation settlement. Poor drainage, leaks, or drought conditions can all disrupt the soil's balance and structural integrity.
Roots from nearby trees can absorb moisture from the soil or grow underneath the foundation, causing uneven settling.
Even under optimal conditions, homes naturally settle over the years. However, rapid or excessive settlement points to a deeper issue.
If you’ve identified signs of foundation settlement in your home, it’s important to act quickly. Delaying repairs could lead to even more costly structural damage down the road.
The first step is to have your home inspected by a foundation specialist like Intermountain Coatings in Murray, Utah. An expert can determine the root cause of settlement and recommend the most effective solutions.
Depending on the severity of the issue, solutions may include underpinning, slab jacking, or installing drainage systems to stabilize the soil.
Once your foundation is repaired, it’s crucial to ensure proper maintenance. Regularly check for drainage issues, keep an eye on cracks, and avoid overwatering areas around the foundation.
Recognizing the signs of foundation settlement early can save you significant stress and expense. Intermountain Coatings in Murray, Utah, specializes in professional foundation inspections and repairs to help you safeguard your home for years to come.
Not sure if your foundation is settling? Contact us today for a free inspection and get expert advice tailored to your home’s unique needs.
