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Foundation issues can be serious and costly to repair, so it's important to be aware of the signs that your home may need foundation repair. Here are some common signs that your home may need foundation repair.

Cracks in Walls

One of the most common signs of foundation problems is the appearance of cracks in the walls, especially if the cracks are wide or jagged. These cracks can be a sign of settlement or movement in the foundation. 

If you notice cracks in your walls, it's important to have them inspected by a professional to determine the cause and the appropriate course of action. 

Not all cracks necessitate immediate foundation repair, and there might be easy steps to take if minor repairs are needed. Some cracks require major repairs, however, and they shouldn't be ignored until the structural integrity of your house is compromised.

A foundation repair specialist will be able to determine how serious or not serious your home's cracks are. 

Doors and Windows That Stick

If your doors and windows are sticking or difficult to open and close, it could be a sign of foundation issues. The sticking may be caused by the frame of the door or window being out of square due to foundation movement. 

Sticking windows and doors can also occur when the wood in them swells and contracts throughout the year. A single door that sticks each summer probably is caused just by that door's wood swelling, or the wood of its frame swelling, as the moisture content of your home changes.

Should you notice a door or window that sticks year round, however, that probably isn't caused by changing moisture. A series of windows on the same wall that stick also could be a sign of something more serious. In these situations, have your foundation inspected by a professional who can check for serious and non-seasonal problems.

Uneven or Sloping Floors

If your floors are uneven, it could be evidence of foundation settlement. This can be caused by soil movement or a poorly constructed foundation. A professional can determine whether the foundation settled and now is stable, or if it's still shifting and needs to be shored up.

Chimney Separation

If your house has a chimney that's separating from the rest of the house, it could be a sign of foundation problems. The chimney is usually one of the first parts of the house to show signs of foundation issues, as it is subjected to a lot of stress due to its height and weight. If you notice that your chimney is separating from the house, have your foundation inspected by a professional.