How to Check for Foundation Problems

Foundation problems reveal themselves through cracks in walls, uneven floors, sticking doors, and exterior foundation cracks. Walk through your home systematically, checking both interior and exterior warning signs.

1. Spot Cracks Before They Spread. Walk through every room looking for cracks in drywall, especially above doors and windows. Hairline cracks are usually normal settling, but wide cracks, stair-step cracks in masonry, or cracks that you can slip a coin into signal foundation movement. Check where walls meet ceilings for separation gaps.
2. Detect Hidden House Shifts. Open and close every door and window in your home. Doors that suddenly stick, won't latch properly, or show gaps around the frame indicate the house is shifting. Windows that won't open smoothly or have visible gaps around the sash are also red flags.
3. Find Floors Gone Wrong. Place a marble or small ball on the floor in different rooms. If it consistently rolls toward the same area, your floors are no longer level. Walk around feeling for soft spots, squeaks, or areas where the floor feels springy. Use a level on countertops and shelves to confirm if surfaces are still true.
4. Map Every Visible Crack. Walk around your home's perimeter looking at the visible foundation. Check for horizontal, vertical, or stair-step cracks in concrete or block foundations. Measure any cracks you find with a ruler and photograph them with a coin for scale. Look for areas where the foundation is bowing inward or outward.
5. Uncover Underground Damage. If accessible, examine foundation walls from inside using a flashlight. Look for water stains, white mineral deposits, or active leaks that can weaken foundations. Check for cracks, especially horizontal ones which indicate serious pressure issues. Notice any musty odors that suggest moisture problems.
6. Reveal What's Pulling Away. Check for gaps between the foundation and siding, or between porch steps and the house. Look at your chimney to see if it's leaning or separating from the main structure. Inspect for soil erosion around the foundation or areas where the ground has sunken.
7. Track Problems Over Time. Take photos of any cracks or problems you find, including measurements. Mark the ends of cracks with pencil and date them to track growth over time. Keep a simple log noting when you first noticed issues and any changes in weather or ground conditions.