Congratulations on your decision to purchase a new home! Whether it’s your first home, or your 7th, there are many different aspects that you need to look for, beyond the cosmetics. This blog will show you the many different items that you should be looking for, so that you know more about the bones of the house you’re looking to make your home. If you’re purchasing a house, here’s what you should be looking for!
Foundation Cracks
Foundation cracks are common, but not good. There are different types of foundation cracks that you should keep your eye out for, including:
Vertical Cracks
Vertical cracks are often caused by soil settlement. When the soil settles, additional pressure is placed on the foundation wall, resulting in cracks.
Horizontal Cracks
This type of cracks are often serious. They indicate that there is very heavy soil pressure against the walls. If not repaired, this pressure can actually cause walls to bow, buckle, or even cave in!
Stair Step Cracks
When concrete block foundations respond to soil pressure and settlement by cracking along the mortar joints. This type of crack usually indicates a problem with the foundation of the home.
If you notice a large crack, no matter what type it is, contact the experts at GJ MacRae. We’ll help repair your foundation and keep your home dry and safe.
Sump Pump/Weeping Tile
It is extremely important that you are sure the sump pump is functioning properly. Without a functioning sump pump, the hydrostatic pressure around your basement can build which can lead to water in your basement. Like sump pumps, weeping tiles are designed to keep your basement dry, but if they’re not functioning properly, you can have some serious issues.
Questions
There are no bad questions when it comes to purchasing a new home. Make sure to ask the homeowner and your real estate agent about all of the work that has been completed on the house. From the basement to the roof, the furnace to the landscaping, no area of the home that you’re curious about should be off limits!
If you’re purchasing a home, keep these tips in mind! If you aren’t purchasing a home, but you’ve noticed these signs of trouble around your home, contact the experts right away! Our team will help fix the issue and keep your home happy, safe, and dry for years to come.
