While all new buildings undergo a period of natural settling within the first few years as soil compresses, you should be concerned enough to seek a professional foundation inspection if you observe signs of differential settlement. Unlike uniform settling, differential movement can threaten the structural integrity of a new property.
We recommend contacting a professional immediately if you notice any of the following red flags:
- Significant Cracking: Any cracks in foundation walls, floors, or drywall that exceed 1/8 inch in width. You should be particularly concerned by vertical, diagonal, or stair-step cracks, as well as cracks that widen or expand over time.
- Functional Distortion: Doors and windows that suddenly stick, fail to latch, or no longer close smoothly, indicating that the frames have become misaligned due to structural shifting.
- Visible Gaps: New gaps forming around exterior door or window frames, or instances where the brick veneer and siding are separating from the structure.
- Floor and Wall Issues: Noticeably sloping or uneven floors, bulging or leaning walls, or trim and molding that is separating from the ceiling or wall.
For homes built within the last five years, these indicators often suggest that the underlying soils have not reached equilibrium or that there is inadequate footing support. Only a licensed structural engineer can accurately differentiate between harmless cosmetic shrinkage and developing structural risks.
If an inspection confirms that stabilization is required, we offer a range of ICC- and ISO-certified foundation repair solutions, including helical pier systems and push piers. We also provide Engineering Excellence and Design Support to ensure repairs comply with all applicable building codes and ICC-ES acceptance criteria.
Consult a structural engineer or the manufacturer’s engineering team for project-specific design and installation guidance. Products are certified to ICC/ISO where indicated—installations must comply with applicable building codes and ICC-ES acceptance criteria (AC358).
Related FAQs
-
Why is Uplift Resistance Critical for Ground Mount Solar Arrays?
Read More »: Why is Uplift Resistance Critical for Ground Mount Solar Arrays?Uplift resistance is a critical design parameter for ground mount solar arrays because these structures are subjected to significant wind uplift forces. Without sufficient resistance, the upward pressure from wind can exceed the vertical load capacity of the foundation, leading…
-
When is a Building Permit Required for a Deck in Omaha?
Read More »: When is a Building Permit Required for a Deck in Omaha?In Omaha and the Eastern Nebraska region, a building permit is specifically required for any deck project that meets either of the following criteria: When applying for a permit in this region, you should be prepared for the following regulatory…
-
What are the Frost Depth Requirements for Deck Footings in Nebraska?
Read More »: What are the Frost Depth Requirements for Deck Footings in Nebraska?In Nebraska, frost depth requirements for deck footings vary by region and local jurisdiction to prevent structural damage caused by frost heave. General requirements across the state include: Compliance with these depths is mandatory under the Nebraska Building Code and…
-
Does a Deck Contractor Handle the Permitting Process for Me?
Read More »: Does a Deck Contractor Handle the Permitting Process for Me?In Nebraska, deck contractors play a vital role in managing the permitting process to ensure projects meet local regulations and avoid costly delays. While the specific level of involvement can vary, experienced contractors typically handle several key aspects of the…
-
What Happens if I Build a Deck without a Permit in Nebraska?
Read More »: What Happens if I Build a Deck without a Permit in Nebraska?Building a deck without a permit in Nebraska can lead to significant safety, financial, and legal issues. Because deck building permits are mandatory for most residential projects in the state, failing to secure one means your project is not in…