Nothing is scarier to a homeowner than the thought of expensive repairs. However, if you believe that your home is settling, it is not a reason to panic. A settling foundation is not necessarily a cause for alarm. Often, it is a normal process due to the shifting of the soil underneath.
However, it is possible that your foundation could sustain some serious damage while settling. If you have concerns, it is never a bad idea to have a professional evaluate your concrete slab Tulsa OK for potentially serious problems. Here are some important signs to keep a watch for.
1. Cracks in the Foundation
This may seem obvious, but there are reasons besides settling that your foundation may start showing cracks. Seasonal climate changes could be another potential culprit. When in doubt, it is a good idea to have the foundation evaluated.
2. Bending or Bursting Water Pipes
When the foundation settles, it can put pressure on your water pipes. This can cause them to twist or bend. With enough pressure over time, they may burst. You should keep an eye on your water pipes to prevent this and seek the services of a professional as soon as you notice them.
3. Gaps Between Walls and Windows
This may be the first sign of settling that you notice. It occurs when the house settling causes the walls to pull away from the window frames.
4. Difficulty Opening Doors
In addition to the walls pulling away from the frames, the doors and windows themselves may not fit properly in their frames anymore. The settling of the house can force them into a slight angle. This can make it more difficult to open and close the doors and windows.
However, if the structures are made of wood, settling may not be the culprit. Sometimes doors and windows can swell or stick due to the humidity.
Different structural problems can result in similar symptoms. Before you take any corrective action, you should first make sure that house settling is, in fact, the problem.
