When your home has problems with its foundation, you may not even notice until your foundation has become very damaged. If you want to reduce your expenses, you'll need to have a foundation repair specialist address the issue as soon as possible.

How to Know When You Need Foundation Repairs

You may see cracks in the drywall, ceiling, and floor; sagging floors; windows and doors that don't fit properly; and a leaning chimney. If you notice these problems, you will want to look into your foundation for earning signs of damage.

Don't Delay When Making Repairs

The foundation will not get better on its own. If you notice warning signs of damage, the damage will likely already be extensive. You may not want to pay for the damaged initially but your foundation will be more expensive to repair as time goes on.

Never Perform Foundation Repairs Yourself

Foundation repair is not a DIY job and may require help from an engineer. However, you should also have a general understanding of how foundation repairs are carried out. 

First, the contractor will need to inspect your building to understand the full extent of the damage. They will then give you an estimate of how much it will cost. Then, the contractor will attempt to obtain a structural engineering report on the foundation. Then, the contractor will prepare the site, dig holes around it, lift the foundation with piers, install steel shims in some cases, cover up the holes, and finally clean up after themselves.

Correct the Root Causes of Foundation Damage

Planting trees too close to a building can sometimes cause foundation damage. Trees have very strong and expansive tree roots. They absorb moisture and can cause the concrete to become brittle and crack. 

The tree roots can also be heavy enough to push against the foundation. You may even be able to damage the concrete with shrubs planted too close by.

Maintain Proper Moisture Levels

The right level of moisture is more important than you might think. When the foundation becomes too dry, it will contract and shrink. This can lead to substantial damage to your foundation. 

If it is too moist, it can expand and cause damage in this way. The foundation will become even more damaged if it keeps fluctuating between too dry and too wet. When you correct for these problems, you'll be less likely to face these problems in the future. Reach out to a professional if you think you need foundation repair services.