Construction & Contractors Blog
Owning a vintage two-story home brings a sense of character and history, but it can also come with unique challenges, especially when it comes to the foundation. Keeping a vigilant eye for signs of foundation trouble is essential to preserving the integrity of your beloved home. Here's what you should be on the lookout for in your vintage two-story home that may mean you need foundation repair.
1. Cracks in Walls and Ceilings
As you admire the intricate details of your vintage home's plasterwork and ornate ceilings, pay attention to any cracks that appear. Diagonal or horizontal cracks can indicate that the foundation is shifting. Cracks near windows and doors are particularly telling.
2. Uneven Flooring
Walk through your home and feel the floors beneath your feet. If you notice sloping or uneven surfaces, it's a sign that your foundation might be settling unevenly. Uneven floors can lead to structural problems throughout the entire house.
3. Misaligned Windows and Doors
Vintage homes often feature unique windows and doors that add to their charm. However, if you find that windows and doors are suddenly difficult to open or close, or if they no longer align properly, it's a clear indication that the foundation is moving.
4. Exterior Cracks
Step outside and inspect the exterior of your home. Cracks in the bricks or siding, especially around corners and entryways, can be a sign of foundation issues. These cracks might seem minor, but they can be a symptom of a larger problem.
5. Basement and Crawlspace Dampness
Vintage homes might have basements or crawlspaces prone to dampness. Moisture-related issues like mold, damp walls, or standing water in these spaces can contribute to foundation problems over time. Regular inspections can help catch these issues early.
6. Sticking Doors and Windows
When doors and windows start sticking or jamming, it's a sign that the foundation is shifting and causing misalignments. If you notice gaps between frames and walls or difficulty operating these features, it's time to investigate further.
7. Cracks in the Foundation
Inspect the foundation itself for cracks. While some cracks might be harmless, larger or widening cracks could indicate serious foundation trouble. If you find significant cracks, it's important to consult a professional.
8. Chimney Issues
The chimney is another area to keep an eye on. If you notice the chimney tilting or separating from the house, it's a sign of foundation movement. Addressing this promptly is crucial to prevent further damage.
9. Visible Gaps and Spaces
If you spot gaps or spaces forming between walls, ceilings, and floors, your foundation might be shifting. These gaps can become more pronounced over time, leading to structural instability.
For more information on when to seek foundation repair, contact a professional near you.
Share29 August 2023
There's a common misconception that all construction workers and contractors do the same job. On one hand, this is kind of true. Construction workers and contractors all built things. However, most people in this field have a specialty. Some hang drywall. Others paint. Still others know how to pour foundations or install roofs. While some construction workers and contractors move from field to field throughout their careers, others spend their career honing one particular skill. Either approach is fine, from our perspective. What we really care about is the excellent work that these workers do, and that's what we plan to feature on this website.