How to Perform an Exterior Home Soundness Check
It's therefore essential to have the home's exterior regularly inspected to ensure the property remains in tip-top shape.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average age of houses in the country is 40 years. These older homes are more prone to structural problems. However, improper construction can also cause issues in newer properties. A home with structural issues can have uneven floors, sagging roofs, and cracks that can allow pests to enter the house. It's therefore essential to have the home's exterior regularly inspected to ensure the property remains in tip-top shape. Here's how to check for exterior property damage.
Porch pulling away from the house
A porch sloping away from the house indicates that the house is settling. As a result, the foundation is likely to drop, which is most visible around the stairs, front porch, and patio. As the foundation settles, it can cause a crack between the home and the porch. Calling an expert to look at these cracks and find the best solution for the problem is essential.
Cracks in the stonework
Cracks in the house's stonework are also often signs of house settling issues. As this process exerts more pressure on one side of the property, the whole structure becomes uneven. This creates a hazardous situation that could eventually result in collapsed walls or uneven floors.
Leaning chimney
It's essential to inspect the home's chimney regularly. This prevents a fire hazard and can alert homeowners to structural damage. For example, a cracked or leaning chimney could indicate a shift in the foundation and should be inspected by an experienced contractor.
Gaps in the door frame
If there are noticeable gaps in the seams of the doors and windows, it's a sign that something may be wrong with the structure. The building might be warping in some areas, which is a significant safety hazard. This problem should be attended to avoid the potential for serious injury immediately.
Bowed concrete
Sometimes, concrete slabs may not fit as well as they used to. They could also look like they're moving away from other parts of the slab. Bowing concrete signifies that the house is settling, and the foundation might be uneven.
Drainage issues
Water damage that affects the property walls can cause severe structural issues, especially during the cold season. Conducting a structural home inspection is an excellent way to check for potential problems affecting the home's integrity. For example, if there's an area where water is pooling, it could point to a compromised drainage system, resulting in water damage.
Don't take any chances!
If any of these signs are noticeable around the home, it's essential to hire a licensed contractor to inspect and monitor the situation. These professionals can help determine the extent of the structural damage to the property.
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