Structural problems in houses are not very common, but when they do occur, they can be very expensive to repair, and in some cases, they cannot be fixed at all. While this report will not make you an expert, it will provide you with some common indicators that suggest the presence of structural issues in a house.
It is important to note that not all cracks in walls or ceilings are indicative of structural problems. Some cracks may result from normal settlement or seasonal changes in temperature and humidity. However, certain types of cracks can be a red flag, indicating a potential structural problem.
Other indicators of structural issues in a house may include doors or windows that stick or do not close properly, sloping floors, or bowed walls. In some cases, homeowners may also notice gaps between the walls and the ceiling or floor. These signs may suggest a problem with the foundation, framing, or other structural components of the house.
If you suspect that your house has a structural issue, it is important to seek the advice of a qualified professional, such as a structural engineer. They can assess the extent of the damage and provide recommendations for repairs, if necessary. Ignoring the problem may only make it worse and result in even more costly repairs in the long run.
Cracks in Foundation
Uneven Floors.
Uneven floors are quite common, particularly in older homes. However, there is a simple trick that can help you differentiate between a charming, character-filled old home and one with structural issues. If the floor sags towards the middle of the house, it’s probably just an aged and charming home. Just like people, homes sag in the middle as they get older. However, if the floor slopes towards an exterior wall, there may be significant structural issues.
It’s important to be cautious when it comes to this area, as no house is perfect. Stand across the street from the house and examine it. If it appears to lean to one side, there may be structural problems. For reference, you can line up the front corner of the house with the back corner of an adjacent house to see if they are parallel. Stepping back from the house to take a look is always a good idea. It’s easy to miss significant issues by standing too close. If you can detect a lean with the naked eye, it’s best to get it checked out without taking any chances.
Horizontal Foundation Cracks are Bad
Cracks in the foundation, particularly in poured concrete foundations, are quite common in both new and old houses. Despite the extensive engineering involved in assessing these cracks, there is a fundamental rule that should never be overlooked, namely, “horizontal cracks are a cause for concern.” Although not all vertical cracks are tolerable, they are typically not as severe as horizontal ones.
Leaning Walls.
It’s important to note that a leaning foundation wall is not an ideal situation for any homeowner. However, it may not necessarily be a major issue if there are no indications of recent movement. To be certain about the severity of the situation, it’s always best to consult with a home inspector. They have the expertise and experience necessary to thoroughly examine the foundation and provide a professional opinion. By doing so, you can gain a better understanding of the situation and take the necessary steps to address any potential concerns.
Harmless Cracks.
It is not uncommon for new houses to have shrinkage cracks in the poured concrete foundation as it cures. These cracks can take the form of small vertical cracks or small 45 degree cracks at the basement windows, measuring 1/8 inch wide or less. While they do not affect the overall structure of the house, they can potentially cause leakage issues.
It is important to note that seeing small cracks in a new foundation should not cause panic. Some builders even intentionally pre-crack the foundation and fill the cracks with flexible material as a preventative measure. Therefore, if you do notice these small cracks in your new home’s foundation, it is best to consult with a professional to determine the best course of action to prevent any potential leakage problems.
Plaster or Drywall Cracks.
Plaster and drywall cracks found inside houses are often misunderstood by homeowners. These cracks are a common occurrence and can be caused by a variety of factors such as changes in temperature or humidity, settling of the foundation, or even poor construction. However, despite their prevalence, many homeowners are not aware of the root cause of the cracks and may mistake them for a more serious issue.
The misunderstanding surrounding plaster and drywall cracks can lead to unnecessary repairs or renovations, which can be costly and time-consuming. In some cases, homeowners may even panic and assume that the cracks are a sign of structural damage or a major issue with their home. This can cause undue stress and worry, particularly if the homeowner is not familiar with the typical causes of these types of cracks.
It’s important for homeowners to understand that plaster and drywall cracks are often a normal part of the natural settling and aging process of a home. While they can be unsightly, they rarely pose a serious threat to the structure of the house. By learning more about the causes of these cracks and how to repair them, homeowners can avoid unnecessary expenses and rest easy knowing that their home is safe and sound.
The following crack types are not generally related to structural movement: We call these “stress cracks” or “surface cracks”.
There is a small crack, measuring less than 1/4 inch, that runs along the corner where two walls meet in the room. Additionally, there are small cracks that originate from the upper corner of a door opening and extend upwards.
The following cracks may be related to structural movement
If you observe large cracks on your walls, measuring over a quarter-inch in width, or cracks with deflection, such as a lip where one side of the crack is beyond the other side, it may be indicative of structural movement or damage. Additionally, cracks that run diagonally or in a stair-step fashion are also red flags. It’s worth noting that if there are cracks on the interior finish in the same vicinity as those on the exterior of your house, it’s an indication of structural movement.
When it comes to repairing structural movement or damage, there are various methods available. These can include building buttresses, pilasters, steel tie-backs, steel channel columns, and sister walls, among others. A reliable inspector can describe these repair methods in detail should the need arise. It’s important to address structural damage promptly to prevent any further damage or hazards to the occupants of the house.