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Top Signs Your Home Has Structural Damage: Interior & Exterior

A residential foundation wall that collapsed due to structural damage

Structural damage in a house is any impairment that affects the essential load-bearing elements of the building, such as foundations, beams, and walls. Understanding the signs of structural damage is crucial for maintaining the safety, value, and longevity of your home. This article will help you identify these signs and offer insights into addressing them effectively, ensuring a safer living environment.

How to Discover and Handle Structural Issues in a House

Structural issues can stem from various factors, including but not limited to:

  • Age of the structure
  • Natural disasters (earthquakes, floods)
  • Poor construction practices
  • Everyday wear and tear

Recognizing these early signs enables timely intervention, which can prevent minor issues from escalating into major, costly repairs.

Exterior Signs of Structural Damage

"Causes of Foundation Damage" alt text

The exterior of a home often shows the first signs of structural compromise. Be on the lookout for:

  • Cracks in Brick and Stonework: Stair-step, vertical, or horizontal cracks can indicate settling issues.
  • Porch Pulling Away From Home: A porch detaching from the house may signify foundational shifting.
  • Gaps in Window and Door Frames: Uneven settling can cause warping, evident in gaps around windows and doors.
  • Cracked or Leaning Chimney: Early signs of structural damage might be apparent in chimney integrity.
  • External Concrete Settling: Misaligned or bowing concrete slabs in driveways or walkways can hint at underlying soil issues.
  • Foundation Settlement: Visible sinking of one side of the house or uneven floors inside can be a clear indicator of foundation settlement, pointing to potential problems with soil compaction or erosion beneath the home.
  • Basement Leaks: Persistent moisture or water pooling in basements may be symptomatic of cracks in the foundation, often resulting from shifts or settling in the structure.

Interior Signs of Structural Damage

types of basement cracks infographic

Inside the home, structural damage can manifest in various ways, including:

  • Bowed Walls: Curving walls, particularly in the basement, suggest hydrostatic pressure from surrounding soil.
  • Gaps Between Walls and Floors: Visible gaps indicate warping due to uneven settling.
  • Random Wall Cracks: Horizontal or vertical cracks in drywall are often signs of house settlement.
  • Nail Pops: Nails pushing through drywall can be a result of shifting structures.
  • Uneven Floors: Floors that slope or feel uneven can indicate foundational issues.
  • Floor Cracks: Visible cracks in the flooring, especially in concrete slabs, can signal foundation shifting or settling.
  • Sticking Windows and Doors: Difficulty in opening or closing can be due to uneven settling.
  • Cabinets That Swing Open: Cabinets detaching slightly from walls may be a sign of foundation movement.

Contact JES for Structural Repair Solutions Today!

If you’ve noticed any of the signs mentioned above in your home, it’s crucial to take prompt action. JES is your go-to expert for diagnosing and repairing structural issues, ensuring the safety and integrity of your home. Our team offers a comprehensive, free, no-obligation inspection to accurately assess your home’s condition. We provide expert analysis to uncover the root causes of any issues and develop customized solutions for foundation and structural repairs. Don’t let structural problems jeopardize the safety and value of your home. Contact JES today for a detailed inspection and gain peace of mind knowing your home is in the capable hands of our experienced professionals.

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JES Foundation Repair service area map of the Mid-Atlantic region.

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8361 Town Center Ct
Nottingham, MD 21236

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311 Central Rd.
Suite 2-02
Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Hampton Roads & NE NC

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Virginia Beach, VA 23454

Northern VA & DC

7940 Gainsford Ct.
Bristow, VA 20136

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309 Quarles Rd
Ashland, VA 23005

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Salem, VA 24153

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456 Old Courthouse Rd
Appomattox, VA 24522

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45 W Boscawen St,
Winchester, VA 22601