Know the Signs
Indicators of foundation movement
If you're experiencing two or more of these signs, your foundation may need professional evaluation. Most are subtle at first — catching them early makes the difference.
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- Warning Signs
What to look for
Your home is telling you something
The clay soil in North Texas is expansive — it swells when wet and shrinks when dry. This constant movement puts stress on foundations year-round. Experiencing two or more of these indicators? Contact us to schedule an inspection.
Cracks in mortar or brick
Stair-step cracks running diagonally through brick mortar joints are one of the most recognizable signs of foundation settlement. They typically appear at corners of windows, doors, and at the corners of the structure.
Separation in brick frieze boards
Gaps opening between the brick and the frieze board — particularly at corners — indicate the structure is shifting. This separation is often more visible from the side of the house.
Poor drainage near the foundation
Water that pools next to the foundation instead of draining away keeps the surrounding soil saturated, which speeds up the swelling and shrinking that stresses your foundation. Proper grading and drainage systems like French drains redirect that water away from the house.
Additional warning signs to watch for
- Brick or trim separations around windows and doors on the exterior
- Doors that won't open, close, or latch properly
- Separation, tearing, or buckling of wallpaper or paneling
- Base trim separating from the floor
- Chimney leaning or separating from the house
- Sloping or uneven floors inside the home
- Windows that stick or won't close properly
- Separation or uneven trim at ceilings
- Cracks appearing in tile flooring
- Poor drainage or water pooling near the foundation
About North Texas clay soil
The expansive clay soil throughout the DFW Metroplex is the primary driver of foundation movement in this region. The soil swells when it absorbs moisture and shrinks significantly during dry periods.
Because of this, regular routine maintenance is very important. Fox Foundation Repair provides a maintenance tip sheet with every job.
Seeing two or more of these signs?
Don't wait. Schedule a free inspection — if no work is needed, we'll tell you that too.