7 Signs Your Home May Have Foundation Settlement – What Alexandria Homeowners Need to Know
If you own a home in Alexandria or the surrounding areas of Northern Virginia, you’re no stranger to the challenges that come with aging homes and shifting soil. One of the most serious structural concerns we see at DESKA is foundation settlement—a gradual sinking or shifting of your home’s foundation caused by unstable soil beneath it.
Recognizing the early warning signs of settlement can help you avoid costly damage down the road. Here are 7 signs your home may be experiencing foundation settlement, and what to do if you spot them
1. Cracks in Brick or Foundation Walls
One of the most common signs of settlement is visible cracking in exterior brickwork or poured concrete foundation walls. These cracks often appear in stair-step or diagonal patterns and may widen over time.
What to look for:
- Cracks running along mortar lines
- Gaps between bricks
- Hairline cracks growing longer or wider
2. Interior Wall Cracks
Settlement doesn’t just affect the outside of your home. As the foundation shifts, your interior walls can crack too—especially around doors, windows, or where walls meet ceilings.
Keep an eye on:
- Vertical or diagonal cracks above doorways
- Nail pops in drywall
- Gaps between walls and crown molding
3. Uneven or Sloping Floors
A sunken or shifting foundation can cause floors to slope, dip, or feel uneven underfoot. You might also notice furniture tilting or rolling slightly on its own.
Tip: Use a marble or level to check if your floor is off-kilter.
4. Doors and Windows That Stick or Don’t Latch
When your home settles unevenly, it distorts the frames of doors and windows. This can make them difficult to open, close, or lock properly.
Warning signs include:
- Sticky doors
- Windows that jam
- Gaps between the frame and the wall
5. Gaps Between Walls, Floors, and Ceilings
If your foundation shifts significantly, you may notice visible gaps between interior surfaces. These separations are more than cosmetic—they indicate movement beneath your home.
Examples:
- Baseboards pulling away from the wall
- Ceiling seams opening
- Cabinets separating from the wall
6. Chimney Separation or Tilting
A leaning or separating chimney is a serious red flag. Since chimneys are heavy and often sit on independent footings, they’re especially prone to foundation movement.
Look for:
- Chimney tilting away from the home
- Gaps forming between the chimney and siding
- Cracks along the base of the chimney
7. Water Pooling Near the Foundation
Poor drainage and water accumulation around your home can accelerate soil erosion and lead to foundation settlement. If you consistently see water pooling near your home after rain, it could spell trouble for your foundation.
Solutions may include:
- Grading adjustments
- Downspout extensions
- French drains or sump pump installation
What to Do if You Notice These Signs
Foundation settlement doesn’t resolve on its own—and left untreated, it can worsen and become far more expensive to fix. At DESKA, we provide free inspections for Alexandria-area homeowners. Our team specializes in advanced foundation repair techniques, including:
- Helical Piers
- Underpinning Systems
- Structural Reinforcement
Schedule Your Free Foundation Evaluation Today
If you’re experiencing any of the warning signs listed above, don’t wait. Reach out to the trusted local professionals at DESKA. We’re proud to serve Alexandria, VA and the surrounding areas with honest assessments and proven repair solutions.
Call our team at 703-665-1456 or click the button below to schedule a free estimate.