There are a few telltale signs that indicate your home may need underpinning. Cracks in walls and corners, windows that don’t shut or open are warning signs of a problem with the foundation and you need underpinning.
In this article, we’ll discuss the signs your home may need underpinning and what you can expect from the process. This is what our team at Adelaide Underpinning Group recommends any client to consider when looking at undergoing foundation repairs.
What are the signs a house needs underpinning?
A few indications will tell you if you immediately need an underpinning service for your house. They are –
Cracks are visible in walls and corners
One common sign that a home needs underpinning is cracking in the walls and corners. It may be caused by foundation settlement when the soil beneath a home begins to shrink and settle. As the soil thins and compacts, the foundation can no longer support the weight of the home, leading to cracks in the walls and floors.
Windows don’t open and close properly
Windows that don’t close or open properly can also indicate that your home needs underpinning. This often happens due to foundation movement, which can occur when the soil around the foundation starts to move and shift. Foundation movement can cause the window frames to become misaligned and even lead to windows popping out.
Floors are not level
Another sign that your home may need underpinning is if your floors are not level. This can be caused by settlement or erosion of the soil beneath the house. When the soil shifts, it can create uneven surfaces that can be dangerous for people walking on them. It can also lead to water infiltration and damage your home’s foundation.
If you notice any of these problems in Adelaide, it’s important to have them checked out by a professional like our team at Adelaide Underpinning Group as soon as possible. Failing to address a foundation issue can lead to much bigger (and more expensive) problems down the road.
Is it OK to buy a house that has been underpinned?
It is ok to buy a house that has been underpinned by a licensed contractor and is certified by a structural engineer. Otherwise, it might be risky and expensive (it might need to rework or lead to further damage). Keep in mind that it’s a technical yet physically demanding work and can’t be DIY. Check the potential risks by reading our blog can you DIY underpinning?
Do I need a permit for underpinning in Adelaide?
Yes, you will need a permit to underpin your home in Adelaide. There are some instances where a permit is not required, such as underpinning an internal wall, but this is better discussed with your underpinning contractor. Your underpinning contractor will also organise a geotechnical report known as a soil test and engineering to apply for the permit.
Underpinning is a process of stabilizing and restoring the foundation of a house. It’s important to have your home checked for any signs of foundation failure by a certified contractor. For more details, you can check our other blog when do you need to underpin?
