Frequently Asked Questions

Early warning signs include:

• Cracks in interior walls, especially above doorways and windows
• Doors and windows that stick or won’t close properly
• Uneven or sloping floors
• Gaps between walls and ceilings or floors
• Exterior brick cracks, particularly in a stair-step pattern
• Separation between walls and chimney
• Basement wall cracks, especially horizontal ones

These signs don’t always indicate severe problems, but they should be evaluated by a professional, especially in older Philadelphia homes.

Our region’s winter temperature fluctuations can significantly impact your foundation. When water in the soil freezes, it expands and puts pressure on foundation walls. During thawing, the soil contracts, potentially creating voids around your foundation. This continuous cycle can lead to:

• Foundation movement
• Crack formation
• Water seepage
• Structural stress

The best defense is proper drainage and maintenance of gutters and downspouts to direct water away from your foundation.

Historic Philadelphia area homes often have stone foundations, which require special attention. Key concerns include:

• Mortar deterioration between stones
• White powder (efflorescence) on walls indicating water infiltration
• Bulging or bowing walls
• Loose or falling stones
• Persistent musty odors

Stone foundations can be very durable when maintained properly but require different repair approaches than modern concrete foundations.

Not all floor cracks indicate serious problems. However, you should monitor:

• Cracks wider than 1/8 inch
• Cracks that change or widen over time
• Cracks accompanied by floor heaving or sinking
• Multiple cracks in a pattern
• Cracks that leak water

Document any cracks with photos and measurements to track changes over time. In the Philadelphia area’s clay-rich soil, some settling is normal, but progressive movement needs attention.

Our region’s clay-heavy soil presents unique challenges:

• It expands significantly when wet
• Contracts during dry periods
• Retains moisture longer than sandy soils
• Can create intense pressure against foundation walls

Proper grading and drainage are essential to manage these soil characteristics and protect your foundation.

Water management is crucial for Philadelphia homes. Focus on:

• Maintaining gutters and downspouts
• Ensuring proper soil grading (6-inch slope per 10 feet away from house)
• Installing and maintaining French drains where needed
• Addressing any plumbing leaks promptly
• Managing surface water runoff

Poor water management is the leading cause of foundation problems in our region.

Monitor your crawl space for:

• Standing water or persistent dampness
• Sagging or uneven floors above
• Mold growth
• Rotting wood supports
• Excessive humidity
• Pest infestations

Crawl spaces should be inspected at least twice yearly, especially after heavy rains or snow melt.

Even newer homes can develop foundation issues:

• Settlement cracks in the first 2-3 years
• Improperly compacted soil under slab foundations
• Drainage issues in newly developed areas
• Problems from adjacent construction
• Issues related to changing water tables

New construction isn’t immune to foundation problems, but early detection can prevent major repairs.

Contact a foundation specialist when you notice:

• Cracks wider than 1/8 inch
• Any horizontal basement wall cracks
• Progressive settlement issues
• Water infiltration problems
• Multiple foundation symptoms
• Failed previous repairs

Foundation specialists have specialized equipment and expertise for accurate diagnosis and appropriate repairs.

Repair costs vary widely based on:

• The type and severity of the problem
• Foundation type and accessibility
• Required permits and inspections
• Necessary waterproofing measures
• Associated repair needs

Minor crack repairs might cost $500-1,500, while major structural repairs can range from $5,000 to $40,000 or more.

Early intervention typically costs less than waiting until problems become severe.