Historical Building in Decatur, IL
This historical building in Decatur, IL may look like it’s standing firm from afar, but up close there are very evident signs of a foundation problem.
Window Coming out of Frame
One obvious indicator of foundation settlement is windows coming out of their square or separating from the framing.
Windows are Weakest Point of Wall
This is usually one of the first signs of settlement because openings in the wall that are cut for windows and doors are the weakest points of the wall.
Crack Extending from Corner of Window
Cracks extending from the corners of doors and windows are another common observation.
Stair-Step Cracking
Stair-step cracking is most likely to occur in brick and concrete block walls. As the building continues to settle, the vertical cracks may become wider, indicating that the wall is rotating outward.
Shifting or Shrinking of Soil
When the soil under the building shrinks or shifts, all or parts of the foundation will settle. Cracks appear when one part of the foundation settles more than another part.
Problems with Soil
There are many factors that can cause the soil under the building to shift including drying and shrinking of soil, wetting and softening of soil, and poorly compacted fill soil.
Settlement Never Stops
A home or building is never “done” settling. The constant cycle of wet and dry periods is always affecting the soil, which is why foundation problems need to be taken care of quickly.
Cracks in Sidewalk
Cracks in the sidewalk outside of the building are also a clear indicator of foundation settlement.
Push Piers Fix Foundation
Push Piers are the best solution to foundation settlement problems such as this one.