What Are Early Signs My Foundation Is Sinking?

A sinking foundation is one of the most serious structural issues a homeowner can face. The good news is that most problems develop slowly, giving you time to act before major damage occurs. If you live in Westmoreland County, PA, understanding the early signs that your foundation is sinking can help you protect your home, avoid costly repairs, and maintain your property’s value.

What Causes a Foundation to Sink?

In Pennsylvania, the main cause of a sinking foundation is uneven soil movement. The soil beneath your home can shift, settle, or wash away due to factors like:

• Poor drainage or plumbing leaks that erode the supporting soil.

• Clay-heavy soil that expands when wet and shrinks when dry, causing movement.

• Improper soil compaction during construction.

• Tree roots or landscaping issues that disturb the soil around your foundation.

  
  

Over time, these conditions create voids under your home, leading to uneven settling, which is often referred to as foundation sinking or settlement.

Early Warning Signs of Foundation Sinking

Spotting the warning signs early can save you from expensive repairs later. Here’s what to look for:

1. Cracks in Walls and Floors

Hairline cracks might not seem serious, but widening cracks that spread diagonally or appear near doors and windows can indicate foundation movement. Vertical cracks in basement walls are also a common red flag.

2. Doors and Windows That Stick

If your doors or windows are suddenly difficult to open or close, it might be more than just humidity. As your foundation shifts, the frames become misaligned, making them stick or jam.

3. Uneven or Sloping Floors

A noticeable slope in your floors is one of the clearest signs of a sinking foundation. You might notice furniture tilting slightly or feel like you’re walking uphill in certain areas of the home.

4. Gaps Around Windows, Doors, or Ceilings

As your home settles unevenly, gaps can form between the walls, ceiling, or trim. These gaps often appear near exterior walls or corners and worsen over time if left unchecked.

5. Exterior Foundation Cracks or Separation

Walk around your home and check for cracks in the exterior foundation. You may also see areas where the foundation is pulling away from the rest of the structure or where brick walls are separating from mortar joints.

Why Foundation Sinking Is Common in Pennsylvania

Homes in Westmoreland County and the surrounding Pittsburgh areas are particularly vulnerable because of clay-rich soils and seasonal freeze-thaw cycles. These soils expand when saturated with rainwater and contract during dry weather, creating movement that stresses the foundation. Combine that with older construction or poor drainage, and foundation settlement becomes a widespread issue.

How to Fix a Sinking Foundation

The good news is that foundation sinking is fixable with professional help. Repair methods include:

• Steel or helical piers to lift and stabilize the foundation.

• Slabjacking or polyjacking to raise uneven concrete floors.

• Waterproofing and drainage systems to prevent future soil erosion.

  
  

Companies like A Better Choice Inc. specialize in diagnosing foundation settlement and providing long-term repair solutions designed for Pennsylvania homes.

Call for a Free Inspection Today

If you’ve noticed cracks, sloping floors, or sticking doors, your foundation may be showing early signs of sinking. Call 1-800-343-2357 or fill out the online form to schedule a free inspection with A Better Choice Inc. Our team proudly serves homeowners across Westmoreland County and nearby Pittsburgh communities with expert foundation repair and waterproofing services.