The Costly Consequences of Delaying Foundation Repairs
“You may delay, but time will not.” - Benjamin Franklin
Let’s face it, nobody enjoys having to get repairs done. Whether it be for our vehicles, computers, phones, or, in this case, our foundations, having to deal with fixing problematic issues really isn’t terribly fun or cheap.
Our initial instinct may be to resist or postpone addressing symptoms of foundation damage, especially if they appear small at first.
But our leanings towards procrastination may very well cost us heavily in more ways than one.
The Negative Repercussions of Delaying Foundation Repairs
Recognizing the importance of protecting your home's foundation should not be underestimated, and delaying repairs can have significant and potentially devastating financial and safety implications.
Understanding what’s at stake and what you can expect when certain problems are neglected can guide you in making informed decisions when addressing foundational concerns.
Continue reading to discover some of the potential issues that may arise.
Long-Term Consequences
- Foundation Settlement and Structural Damage. What will usually start with small signs, such as cracks in walls and the frames of windows and doors, will almost certainly trigger a chain of events that will lead to greater damage to a home’s foundation and structural support as a whole if left unaddressed.
As the foundation settles more, the floors in the home may become uneven, doors and windows may stick, and cracks in the walls can widen. This can create openings for air and moisture to enter (causing higher utility bills), cause roof leaks, and even allow rodents to get inside.
With the rate at which soil in Florida can erode, the extent of damage that can result from not fixing these issues sooner can be quite devastating, with a complete failure of a home’s structural integrity not entirely out of the question. - Plumbing and Mold Issues. If your foundation cracks, sticking doors may be the least of your problems. It’s crucial to be aware of the possibility of plumbing lines breaking as the weight of a foundation shifts.
The resulting impact of this can be detrimental, leading to water damage and mold buildup, posing a threat to the home's sanitation as well as the overall health of those residing in it.
Plumbing issues have the potential to make a home uninhabitable, and the consequences of neglecting a settling foundation can increase the likelihood of this situation. - Diminished Curb Appeal and Property Value. It is an almost universal truth that anyone who evaluates a potential home to buy will certainly be turned away by the mere sight of foundation damage.
Cracks in the walls indicate that an expensive repair will be in the potential home buyer’s future, and this can end up being a complete dealbreaker.
If you ever have plans to sell your home, the overall value will be substantially less if foundation issues are prevalent.
Addressing foundation repairs before listing your home on the market can greatly increase your potential capital gain as well as improve the likelihood of attracting a prospective buyer sooner. - Higher Future Costs. The sooner you can address a foundation issue, the cheaper it is likely to be. Though it may be tempting to wait, the longer a foundation problem is neglected, the more expensive it is going to be to fix.
You may be surprised at how much money you might be able to save by taking action right away.
Safeguarding Your Greatest Investment
More often than not, our homes tend to be our greatest investment. Beyond their monetary worth, they are often a permanent residence for many and a treasured living space for beloved family members.
With over 30 years of providing industry-leading service to Florida residents, LRE Foundation Repair can offer the solutions required to ensure the security and stability of your home.
Schedule a free inspection with an industry expert today and put your foundation concerns to rest once and for all.
