Home Improvement Community

Hey everyone,

I've noticed some cracks appearing in the lower part of my house walls and there’s a slight tilt in the back porch. I’m worried it might be the foundation settling.

Has anyone experienced similar issues? What are the warning signs that a foundation is actually settling and not just normal settling after construction?

Any advice on what to check before calling a professional would be appreciated.

Thanks!

Common signs of settling include:

• Horizontal cracks in the foundation walls.
• Sticking doors or windows.
• Uneven floors (use a level to check).
• Gaps between the wall and the ceiling.

Before calling a pro, try measuring the cracks a couple of times over a few weeks. If they widen, definitely get a structural engineer involved.

Another thing to check is the slab’s moisture level. Excess water can cause soil movement. Make sure gutters are directing water away from the foundation and consider a French drain if needed.