The foundation of your home is one of the most important components of its structure. If you've recently noticed that your foundation is damaged, here's why you should invest in foundation repair as soon as possible.
Like most types of damage, cracks and other foundation damage won't get better with time. In fact, cracks in your foundation will get larger over time, which means you'll have even more damage to repair and your home will be at higher risk. When you fix your foundation as soon as possible, you're preventing minor damage from growing and spreading into something larger. This is especially important if you live in an older home because these homes are typically more susceptible to structural damage.
If you decide to sell your home, you should definitely stay on top of foundation repairs. Most buyers want to purchase a home that's ready to live in, and that's not the case if your foundation is cracked or sagging. According to Clever, foundation issues are seen as a deal-breaker by more than 50% of homebuyers because it increases risks and makes the process more complicated. If you plan on selling your home, take the time to have everything inspected and make any repairs you might need to make beforehand. Foundation repair can also help you sell your home quicker, so you don't have to worry about spending months finding a buyer.
Fixing smaller cracks and other minor foundation issues isn't a big deal, but it can be if you don't fix things in a timely manner. As foundation cracks spread out and affect a larger portion of your foundation, you can expect to spend more money on repairs. If the damage is bad enough, you may need to have your entire foundation poured all over again. Major foundation problems can lead to extremely costly repairs, so it's easier to invest your time and money in repairs while damage is still minor.
Your foundation gets its name because it's the literal base that your home sits upon. If your foundation is cracked or starting to sag, it can affect every other part of your home, including the walls, roof, and floors. When your home doesn't have the support it needs to stay upright, it can start to sag along with the foundation, compromising structural integrity. Even if foundation repair seems like a costly investment, it's well worth preventing damage to other parts of your home.
Believe it or not, cracks and other foundation damage can actually cause your energy bill to rise. When there's too much moisture in your basement as a result of a cracked foundation, your HVAC system has to work harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. This can lead to more stress on your AC and furnace, and lead to an increase in your monthly energy bill, which is another reason it's a smart idea to invest in foundation repair as soon as you need it.
Cracks in your foundation can allow moisture to seep into your home, and that moisture will eventually lead to mold and mildew growth if you don't do anything about it. Mold and mildew are especially big concerns for people who have respiratory issues, such as asthma or COPD. If you have foundation damage and notice a mildew smell in your home, it's time to call a professional.
From small rodents to just about any insect, there are lots of pests that can make their way into your home through cracks in the foundation. Infestations aren't just unsightly, they can also cause serious damage to your home, from wood beams to insulation and wiring. Plus, rodents and other animals can put your health at risk because they carry diseases. If your foundation is cracked, getting it fixed now can help you avoid a future pest problem.
Protecting your home is a lot of work, but keeping an eye out for problems and getting them fixed as soon as possible is a big help. If you have cracks or other issues that might need foundation repair, give Foundations First Northwest a call, and we'll take care of it.
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