The definitive diy home foundation inspection checklist

Winter presents an opportune time for a thorough home foundation inspection. While hiring a professional is an option, many homeowners prefer a DIY approach using a checklist. Follow these steps:

Create a House Drawing

Sketch the house, including windows and doors, on paper or using a computer program.

Inspect Windows and Doors

Look for gaps, cracks, and separations around window and door frames. Test functionality and examine locks and latches.

Examine the Floor

Walk through the house, checking for sagging, bowing, and cracks in the floor. Use a laser level to identify slopes and record differences.

Check Ceilings and Walls

Look for drywall cracks, including corner cracks, seam cracks, tape cracks, and nail pops. Document the cracks’ details on the sketch.
Performing these inspections helps identify foundation issues and ensures the stability of your home.

Inspect the Basement Walls and Interior Foundation

During this stage, examine the basement and crawl space walls. Concrete block walls may exhibit horizontal or zigzag pattern cracks along mortar lines, indicating settlement. Poured concrete walls commonly have vertical cracks.

Examine the Exterior

In the final step, assess the exterior of the house for signs of sinking, shifting, or other changes, particularly around patios and chimneys. Chimneys, often on separate foundations, are prone to settlement and separation. Brick homes may display wider cracks along mortar lines, suggesting outward wall rotation.

Professional Home Foundation Inspection

If any issues are discovered during the inspection, they require immediate evaluation and professional repair. While a DIY checklist is helpful, it’s only the initial step towards stabilization and preserving property value. If you reside in the San Antonio, Dallas, or Fort Worth area and suspect foundation problems, contact GL Hunt for a free estimate. Visit our reviews page to see why customers trust our expertise in home foundation inspection.