Sticking Windows & Doors? Your Foundation Might be in Trouble!
Foundation damage can sneak by unnoticed for a while. Sure, big cracks along the foundation or on your concrete steps are obvious signs of trouble and are hard to miss. But there are plenty of subtle signs that can slip under the radar. Surprisingly, your windows and doors can be great indicators that you might need foundation repair.
Have you ever struggled to open a window in your home, feeling like it’s jammed or scraping against the frame? Or maybe you’ve noticed a door that just won’t latch properly, no matter how much you jiggle the handle. While these issues might seem like minor inconveniences, they could actually be signs of a bigger problem: foundation damage.
Sticky or Cracked Windows as Warnings
Imagine this: you go to open a window for some fresh air, but it seems stuck. You push and pull, but it won’t budge. This difficulty in opening or closing windows can be a sign that your foundation is shifting, causing the window frames to become misaligned.
Another red flag is uneven gaps around your window frames. If you notice larger gaps at the top or bottom of the window compared to the sides, it could indicate that the foundation is settling unevenly. Also, look out for increased condensation or fogginess in the window, as this might indicate gaps that are allowing moisture to seep in due to foundation shifting.
Cracked window panes and hairline cracks can also be a potential sign of foundation issues, but it’s important to note that other factors like extreme temperature changes or forceful impact can also cause cracks. If you see cracks in your windows and are unsure if it’s due to foundation movement or something else entirely, talk to a professional for a diagnosis.
Doors that won’t Cooperate
Your home’s doors can give you some clues that there might be an issue with your foundation that needs to be addressed. If you notice any of the following problems, it’s a good idea to have a professional take a look.
Diagonal cracks creeping from the corners of door frames are a sign that your foundation might be in trouble. Typically, these cracks are caused by the foundation shifting or the soil settling. This can lead to the door frame to become skewed and eventual crack.
Sticking doors are also a common symptom of foundation problems. As the foundation moves, the door frame can become misaligned, making it difficult to open, close, or latch the door smoothly. Similarly, uneven gaps at the top or sides of your doorways can also be signs of foundation shift.
Don't Ignore the Signs!
While a single sticking window or door might not be cause for immediate alarm, it’s important not to ignore these signs. Foundation problems can worsen over time, leading to more serious structural damage and costly repairs.
Windows and doors may seem like separate entities from your home’s foundation, but they can actually reveal valuable clues about its health. By keeping an eye out for sticking windows, uneven gaps, and misaligned doors, you can catch foundation problems early and prevent them from becoming bigger issues.
If you notice any of the issues mentioned above, get a professional inspection from a qualified foundation repair company (like Pinnacle) as soon as possible. Early detection and intervention are key to preventing further damage and ensuring the safety and value of your home.
We Can Help!
At Pinnacle Foundation Repair, we offer FREE consultations and inspections to assess your foundation’s health. Our honest team of experienced professionals can diagnose the problem and recommend the most effective repair solutions, tailored just for you.
Don’t wait until a small issue becomes a major headache – contact us today and let us help you keep your home safe and secure.
