Get matched with top foundation repair specialists in Libby, MT

It’s usually not a big deal if your foundation sinks between 2 and 3 inches into the ground after construction, provided the settlement occurs evenly. This is usually indicative of normal settlement that occurs as the soil under your home adapts to the weight of the structure. If the home sinks more into the ground or the settlement occurs unevenly, leaving portions of your home to sink further down than others, then call a foundation repair specialist to address the issue and avoid additional damage.

Generally, foundation cracks and repair are not covered by standard homeowners insurance policies. This type of damage is often considered normal wear and tear or a result of poor maintenance, which is the homeowner's responsibility. For example, damage caused by settling, shifting soil, or drainage issues is typically excluded.

However, there are exceptions. Coverage may apply if the foundation damage is a direct result of a covered peril, such as a house fire, a burst pipe, vandalism, or a vehicle accident. Coverage for natural disasters like earthquakes and floods often requires a separate, specific policy or add-on.

The average home foundation lasts between 80 and 100 years, but some can last much longer with proper maintenance and routine inspections. The lifespan depends on the foundation type, soil conditions, climate, and construction quality. Poured concrete walls can last up to 200 years, brick or stone foundations over 100 years, cement block foundations 80 to 100 years, and pier foundations about 75 years. Factors that can shorten a foundation's life include expansive clay soil, poor weather conditions, low-quality building materials, improper construction, and tree roots. Signs of damage include sloping floors, bowing walls, cracks, and doors or windows that stick.

Crawl space foundation problems can stem from a few different issues, but the most common are moisture and water problems and soil instability. Moisture and water issues are often a result of poor drainage, which can lead to water intrusion and soil expansion and contraction, leaving your foundation under added stress. A few things can cause soil instability, including poor drainage, karst landscapes and resulting sinkholes, and poorly compacted soil during construction.