Foundation Settlement versus Sagging Floors

When looking at your home do you feel floors tend to be bouncy, or seem soft and generally uneven?

Did you know gaps will develop between the floor and the bottom of framed walls?

As the problem worsens, the symptoms of sagging floors may look similar to those caused by foundation settlement. Look for cracks extending from the corners of doors, doors that do not open and close properly, and walls pulling away from the ceiling or other walls. 

A simple way to distinguish between foundation settlement and sagging floors is by identifying the location of the symptoms. Cracks and doors and windows not operating correctly on exterior walls likely indicates settlement issues. But cracks on interior walls or interior doors not shutting or latching correctly probably are the result of sagging floors.

A few more reminders when it comes to foundation settlement, severe settlement can result in doors and windows that appear out of square to the naked eye.

Doors and windows may also be difficult to open and close. If you consistently see doors and windows out of level in one certain direction, you have a clear indicator of settlement. 

Whether your home is having issues due to foundation settlement or sagging floors the problem may get worse over time. Remember, your home is one of your greatest investments and any issues you see should be taken care of right way. 

Excerpt taken from, Got Tech "Chapter 3 Sagging Floors"; Foundation Supportworks v.July 2014.