Everyone wants to be safe and comfortable in their home. It’s concerning when you start noticing structural problems in your home. From pest infestations to uneven floors, many issues require immediate assessment and repair. Here are five signs of structural damage in your home.
Sticking Doors and Windows Are Signs of Structural Problems in Your Home
If your doors and windows were fitted correctly but no longer open or close without rubbing or sticking, this could mean that your home’s foundation is settling. You may also notice uneven gaps around the doors or the windows and doors starting to separate from the wall. These are all signs of structural problems in your home, and you should consider hiring a professional home inspector to check them out.
Termites
Termites can eat away at wall studs, support beams, framing, and more, causing substantial damage to properties over time. They are also challenging to remove without professional help. Check for signs of termites or termite damage and hire a pest removal service to make sure the problem is solved. It’s important to get rid of them sooner rather than later.
Structural Problems in Your Home Include Roof Leaks & Sagging Roofs
Generally, your roof should last at least 20 years before it requires replacing. If your roof is nowhere near its life expectancy and has already started leaking, the issue could be due to weather-related damage, inadequate maintenance, or timber frame movement. Repair any roof leaks promptly to prevent water damage and avoid costly repairs.
Uneven or sagging roof lines indicate issues with your roof’s structure. This problem is often caused by incorrect framing during construction, removal of load-bearing walls, or termite damage. Consider hiring a roofing expert to fix a sagging roof line before the issue worsens.
Uneven Floors
Uneven floors can vary in severity and may need immediate attention. Some more severe causes include a settling foundation and poor construction, which require a structural contractor to inspect the issue. Other causes of sloping or cracking floors may consist of termite damage, inadequate subfloor supports, and damaged floor joists. Restumping can be done to fix uneven floors and is usually common in older homes.
Cracks on Ceilings and Walls
While wall and ceiling cracks don’t necessarily suggest structural problems in your home, it’s always best to let a professional assess the issue. Even tiny cracks can slowly develop into something more serious.
It’s crucial to monitor any cracks on your exterior and interior walls and the ceiling. If you spot large cracks accompanied by cracks above your doorways or a sagging ceiling, this is a sign of a more severe issue that requires immediate attention.
Paying attention to these signs of structural problems in your home can help you catch and address issues before they become more serious.
Oasis Home Inspections offers inspections to homebuyers and sellers in Brevard County, Florida. Contact us to request our services.