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What Should I Do If My House Is Shifting?

Understanding what to do when your home starts shifting can help prevent further structural damage and costly repairs. This guide will walk you through the causes of house settlement, how to identify serious foundation issues, and the best foundation repair options available to homeowners.

Cracking home foundation with shifting concrete slab patio

Why Is My House Shifting?

A home’s foundation exerts pressure on the soil beneath it, naturally leading to some level of settlement. When this settlement is uniform, it’s generally not a cause for concern. However, if different sections of your foundation settle at different rates, this uneven movement—known as differential settlement—can cause structural problems.

Uniform Settlement vs. Differential Settlement

  • Uniform Settlement: Occurs when the foundation settles evenly. This is generally harmless and does not cause structural damage.
  • Differential Settlement: Occurs when sections of the foundation settle at different rates, leading to cracks, misalignment, and shifting of the house.

Related Resource: The Ultimate Guide to Foundation Settlement

What Causes Uniform Foundation Settlement?

Uniform settlement happens due to natural soil compaction under the weight of the house. You typically don’t need to worry if:

  • The weight of the house is evenly distributed.
  • No sections of the home are significantly heavier than others.
  • Proper drainage is in place to prevent excess water around the foundation.

Minor cracks might appear over time, but they usually do not indicate structural damage.

What Causes Differential Foundation Settlement?

Differential settlement, which leads to house shifting, can be triggered by several factors:

Common Causes of House Shifting

  • Improper Soil Compaction: Poorly compacted soil during construction can shift over time.
  • Expansive Soils: These swell when wet and shrink when dry, leading to repeated stress on the foundation.
  • Weather Changes: Dry conditions cause soil shrinkage, while heavy rains expand the soil.
  • Inadequate Drainage: Excess moisture can weaken soil and lead to shifting foundations.
  • Excavation Near the Home: Digging near a foundation can destabilize the soil.
  • Earthquakes & Floods: Seismic activity and water movement can displace foundation supports.
  • Soil Creep: Homes on slopes may experience gradual soil movement over time.

Related Resource: Understanding Differential Settlement

Signs Your House Is Shifting and Warning Signs:

  • Doors & Windows Sticking: Frames become misaligned.
  • Walls Pulling Away from Ceilings & Floors: Gaps may appear where walls meet other structures.
  • Uneven Floors: Sloping or sagging in different areas.
  • Cracked Walls & Ceilings: Hairline cracks are normal, but large cracks indicate trouble.
  • Bowed Basement Walls: Pressure from expansive soil can push walls inward.
  • Cracked Floors: Significant cracks running wall-to-wall suggest foundation movement.
  • Separation of Chimneys & Porches: These elements detaching from the house can signal shifting foundations.
  • Diagonal Cracks Above Doors & Windows: Larger cracks running at an angle indicate significant settlement issues.

What Should You Do If Your House Is Shifting?

Your home’s stability depends on its foundation. If you notice concerning signs, don’t wait to take action. Here’s what you can do:

  • Conduct a DIY Inspection: Check for visible cracks, sticking doors, or uneven floors.
  • Ensure proper drainage to prevent water buildup around the foundation.
  • If the issues persist or worsen, consult a foundation repair specialist for a professional assessment.

Foundation Repair Options for House Shifting

If your home is shifting, several foundation repair solutions can help stabilize it:

Proven Foundation Repair Methods

  • Resistance Piers (Push Piers): Heavy-duty steel piers driven into load-bearing soil to lift and stabilize the foundation.
  • Helical Piers: Screwed deep into the soil, providing stability and lifting capability.
  • Drilled Concrete Piers: Suitable for homes on slopes, anchoring the foundation to bedrock.
  • Slab Piers: Installed beneath concrete slabs to reinforce and stabilize shifting foundations.

When to Call a Professional on Shifting Homes

Minor settlement is typical, but if you notice significant shifting or worsening structural issues, it’s time to consult a professional. DIY fixes might provide temporary relief but won’t address the root cause. A foundation repair specialist can assess the situation and recommend a long-term solution to keep your home safe and stable.

Most homes settle naturally over time, but if you notice signs of significant shifting, it’s important to act quickly. Catching foundation issues early can save you from costly repairs down the road. If you’re unsure about the severity of the problem, schedule a free expert evaluation today and get the peace of mind you deserve.