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Most of the time, normal foundation settling will present as thin cracks in the foundation and minor creaks in the floorboards. In contrast, you can identify foundation issues by wide or uneven foundation cracks, horizontal or step-shaped gaps on the foundation wall, or cracks that go around corners of your foundation. Foundation problems can also cause changes in your living area, like increased humidity, uneven or sloping floors, nail pops in drywall, countertops pulling away from the wall, and windows and doors getting stuck. When in doubt, call in a professional to identify the underlying cause.

Foundation repair can affect home value positively or negatively. If you address the underlying issue and hire a foundation repair contractor to complete the work—especially one that includes a warranty for the work—then your repair will likely increase your home’s value. If you fail to pull proper permits and cannot prove that a licensed expert completed the work, there’s a chance buyers will view your home in a negative light and end up offering less for your property.

Regularly inspecting your foundation—at least the visible sections—for signs of foundation issues like moisture and pest infestation is a good way to identify slab leaks early, as is keeping an eye and ear out for water damage to indoor building materials, above-average water bills, sounds of running water when no fixtures or appliances are on, and indoor humidity that causes the temperatures to feel more extreme. If you do find any issues, contact a plumber right away to check it out for you.

The best way to determine if ceiling cracks are structural is to hire a ceiling contractor to inspect the cracks and provide a professional opinion. That said, you might be able to make an educated guess based on the size and appearance of the crack. Larger cracks, cracks accompanied by sagging or discoloration, and cracks that travel from the ceiling down the walls are all signs of structural issues.