Foundation Repair Services in the Boston, MA Area For Piering and Underpinning
Boston is the largest city in Massachusetts and is one of the oldest cities in the United States. As the city ages, the homes get older. Older homes are charming but need updating and maintenance. If you own an older home, regular maintenance will prevent costly foundation repairs in the future. If you are thinking about purchasing one, inspect the home carefully for foundation damage before you decide to buy it. There is absolutely no perfect home. Every home has some kind of issue, but noticing the big issues will save you time and money. If you have a home that suffers from foundation failure, then our team of professionals will assess the damages. At Atlas Systems of New England, we offer piering and underpinning repair solutions to fix your foundation. We are your foundation repair team in Boston.
Foundation issues in older homes can be well hidden. Major damages usually do not appear until the damage gets worse. This means that the homeowner will end up spending thousands of dollars on repairs. However, there are clues to help you identify underlying problems. You need to know where to look so you can detect the problem and fix it early.
Causes of Foundation Failure in Boston
If you own an older home or decide to buy an old home, look for these signs of foundation failure. Identifying these signs early will save you time and money. At Atlas Systems, we can help you find out why you have foundation failure and fix it immediately.
Cracks in the Foundation
Living in Boston, you’re most likely to discover foundation cracks in older homes. Homes with poor soil conditions, improper drainage, plumbing leaks, insufficient materials, and poor building site preparation usually lead to foundation cracks. There are several types of foundations that include basements, crawl spaces, and partial basements. Some homes contain concrete slab or posts that are installed into concrete footings. Whatever type of foundation you have, make sure you inspect the interior and exterior of your home for cracks.
- On the outside of your home, look for cracks in the concrete and brick.
- In the basement, inspect the walls for leaks and water seepage. Also check the wall base.
- Look for vertical or stair-step cracks in the brick or concrete.
- If you notice horizontal cracks or cracks with a pattern, this could be a sign your foundation is unable to bear the weight of your home.
Sloping Floors
Older homes will eventually get sloping floors. This foundation problem makes the home hard to resale because it is a clear indicator that the home’s structure is weak. Are there ridges under the carpet or humps under the doorway? These signs indicate floor or slab cracks.
Misaligned Doors and Windows
Doors and windows that don’t properly shut or open are signs that the house is settling. Cracked foundations may also cause gaps in the doors and windows.
Mold and Mildew on the Walls
Signs of mold and mildew are caused by excess moisture. If you encounter a musty odor, this could indicate mold damage. Inspect the wall and ceiling for water stains and puddles.