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Consulting
STEVE SWIFT
Structural
Structural problems can be significant and detrimental. When not properly addressed they can result in costly repairs as well as serious safety issues. These issues normally start as relatively small and seemingly insignificant concerns that increase in severity. This can cause damage to other parts of the structure and other parts of the home or building. It is important to have any structural concern professionally evaluated.
The proper evaluation must determine the primary source or cause of the problem and prescribe adequate and proper repair(s). Wasted time, effort, and money often result from ‘fixes’ that do not address the root cause of the problem. Unfortunately, improper or inadequate corrections are not uncommon.
Structural problems are often evidenced by sagging, bowing, or other distortions of the general alignment of the building. Usually cracking or distortions of rooms or exterior surfaces such as floors, walls, ceilings, door & window frames result from unwanted and detrimental movement of the structure. However, a certain amount of structural movement is common and not considered detrimental or significant. Additionally, building components that are not sound, such as bouncy floors and excessive deflection of floor, roof, or wall surfaces can be of significant concern. Again, you must determine the root cause or source of the problem and avoid ‘fixes’ that only address the evidence or manifestations of the issue.
Foundation cracking whether basement or other foundation walls, floors, and footings are often but not always significant. Such cracking does not always indicate a need for repair or correction. However, foundational cracking should always be properly evaluated to determine if further action is needed. In our area one of the most common foundation problems has to do with basement wall cracking and bowing; (see the related article basement foundation walls).
Many structural problems can be corrected by relatively simple and inexpensive means if they are addressed properly and in a timely manner. Certainly, this is not always the case, but if it is not the case then the issue could be much more serious and must be addressed to prevent catastrophic failure and loss.
I have been trained and have served this community for over 20 years. Let me help you address these issues with professional assessments and guidance. Contact me for a thorough evaluation.