Foundation Repair Photo Album: Cracking Throughout the House Caused by Settling Foundations

This home in Swansea, IL. was experiencing severe cracking and other symptoms related to settling foundations. When the soil beneath the foundation compresses or erodes unevenly, the home might become unsupported in some sections. This lack of support often leads to cracking in walls throughout the home.   Most commonly, cracks appear in the foundation walls as well as in the drywall upstairs near door and window frames. Cracks can also appear outside the home, along brick walls, near the corners of the home or around seperate structures like fireplaces or porches. These cracks not only degrade the integrity of the home, but also lower the value of the home and expose it to external hazards like water, unconditioned air, pests and mold.    To close these gaps and support the home, experts at Woods Basement Systems recommend push piers. These piers are part of a system that attaches to the footing and extends down into sturdy soil to permanently support the sinking foundation. Once the piers are pushed to an appropriate depth, the home is raised to a level position and the piers are locked into a bracket so that they will permanently keep the home level and at the right height.    Cracks and damage caused by settling foundations, both inside the home and out, won't be a trouble any longer once push piers are installed.