Why You Might Need the Services of a House Underpinning Contractor
Contractors spend a lot of time in the design phase of construction and invest much in the process. Their primary goal is to create a structure that will stand the test of time and withstand the harsh external elements. However, changes in the soil water content and age can weaken the foundation of your building and lead to partial settling. If your home has reached this point, you should hire a foundation contractor to assess the state of the structure. They may recommend house underpinning if they discover any of the following issues.
When the Slope Becomes Uneven
One of the early indicators that your house needs underpinning is if the slope your home rests on is uneven. The gradient might end up uneven for several reasons. For instance, a movement in the tectonic plates can pull the soil in different directions.
Additionally, when the rocks underneath your foundation shutter, they can create an uneven floor. If you notice this issue, call a contractor to check the level of damage caused by these movements right away. Failure to schedule house underpinning in good time can lead to costly damage.
When There Is Substandard Construction
Another instance to invest in underpinning is when you notice or suspect mistakes in the initial construction. Some of the typical construction issues include choosing a foundation style that does not fully support the weight of the house and using weak pillars. Luckily, you can strengthen the existing structure by simply introducing a strong and better underpinning.
When You Need to Restore the Structure of the House
Unrepaired foundation problems worsen with time. Some common indicators that a house has foundational issues include cracks on the floors and walls. You might also notice windows and doors that stick or sagging walls and floors.
Fortunately, you can correct these problems by underpinning the foundation. Once the contractor completes the underpinning process, you can execute minor repairs on the upper parts of the structure, including the doors, windows, walls and floors.
When You're Planning to Resell the House
You also need to consider underpinning your house before putting it up for sale on the market. This is because most homebuyers will demand that you provide the building's structural report before signing the purchase agreement. In that case, underpinning the house will speed up the resale process.
These are instances when you need an experienced underpinning contractor to help you restore your building's structural integrity. Contact a house underpinning service to learn more.