Key Signs Miami, Florida, Residents Need a Crawl Space Inspection

Florida’s rainy season has been in full swing these past few months, and South Florida residents have been experiencing the effects of heavy rainfall almost daily. 

Homeowners with crawl spaces may experience the greatest impact from the frequent thunderstorms typical of this time of year, as many are not well-prepared to handle the excess rainfall. Many older Miami, FL, homes with crawl spaces were not built with proper drainage or moisture control systems, as such systems were not widely available at the time. 

To make matters worse, the materials originally used for structural support in these crawl spaces were not designed to withstand the shifting of the soil beneath them.

It is crucial to recognize the signs and symptoms of potential issues in your crawl space and understand why acting quickly to schedule a professional inspection can help prevent further damage and avoid costly expenses.

Signs and Symptoms of Crawl Space Issues for Miami Residents

• Sloping and Sagging Floors. A visible sign of structural issues in a crawl space is sloping or sagging floors inside the home. These visual symptoms are often accompanied by a noticeable instability when walking on the floors. If left unaddressed, a complete failure of the subfloors is possible.
  
  
• Interior Drywall Cracks. Often appearing alongside sloping floors, cracks along the interior walls inside a home indicate that the crawl space’s structural support may be compromised. These cracks can form in horizontal, vertical, or diagonal patterns and can vary in size and shape. They may appear anywhere from the base of a wall to the ceiling and are likely to worsen over time.
  
  
• Foul Odors Inside the Home. A musty, foul odor inside a home can signal a serious issue in the crawl space below. Trapped moisture in the crawl space can lead to mold and mildew growth on the wooden support structure. This not only causes an unpleasant odor and weakens the wood but also creates a hazardous environment inside the home, posing significant health risks.
  
  

The Importance of Crawl Space Inspections for Miami Homeowners

Addressing signs and symptoms of crawl space issues as soon as possible is crucial, as neglecting them can lead to worsening conditions, severe and costly damage, and potential safety hazards. 

A thorough inspection by a top industry professional can identify potential problems in your crawl space and offer effective, comprehensive solutions to ensure the area beneath your home remains secure and stable. 

With over 35 years of experience delivering long-term solutions for Florida homeowners' crawl space needs, LRE Foundation Repair is ready to help Miami residents assess the condition of their crawl spaces. Schedule a free inspection today to find out how LRE can help keep your home’s foundational support intact.