Don't Wait for Big Bills: Why Acting on Small Cracks Early is Key

You know that little crack you noticed in the basement wall? Or maybe it's a hairline fracture on the exterior. It's easy to dismiss these as minor cosmetic issues, something you'll get around to fixing 'later'. But here's the thing: 'later' often comes with a much bigger price tag. Acting on small cracks early is key because ignoring them can turn a simple, affordable repair into a major, costly headache. This post is all about why you shouldn't wait for those small issues to become big problems.

Key Takeaways

• Small cracks are often early warnings of bigger issues. Ignoring them can lead to much higher repair costs down the road.

• Foundation movement, caused by soil shifts due to weather, is a common culprit and can worsen cracks over time.

• Cracks aren't just about looks; they can let water in, leading to mold, structural damage, and poor indoor air quality.

• Delaying repairs often means paying more for emergency services and dealing with exponentially higher expenses as damage progresses.

• Professional inspection is vital. DIY fixes might hide the problem temporarily but won't address the root cause, and early detection saves money and protects your home's value.

The Escalating Costs of Neglecting Small Cracks

You know that little hairline crack you spotted in the basement wall? Or maybe a door that’s started sticking just a bit? It’s easy to brush those things off, thinking they’re just cosmetic or something you can deal with later. But here’s the thing: ignoring those small signs is like ignoring a tiny leak in your roof. It might not seem like a big deal now, but it can quickly turn into a much larger, more expensive headache.

When Small Cracks Turn Into Big Costs: Acting Early

That tiny fissure in your foundation isn't just an eyesore. It's often the first whisper that your home's foundation is experiencing some kind of stress. If you catch it early, a simple sealant or a minor adjustment might be all that's needed. But let that crack sit, and it becomes an open invitation for water. Water can seep in, freeze and expand in colder months, and then melt and cause more damage when it warms up. This cycle, known as the freeze-thaw cycle, can turn a small crack into a significant structural problem surprisingly fast. Acting early is almost always cheaper than waiting.

The Snowball Effect of Deferred Maintenance

Think of it like a snowball rolling down a hill. A small crack is the initial snowball. As it sits, it picks up more

Foundation Movement: A Silent Threat

Your home's foundation isn't just sitting there; it's constantly interacting with the ground beneath it. This interaction, driven by natural forces, can lead to movement that you might not even notice until it's a problem. Understanding this can help you spot issues before they get serious.

The Soil's Constant Shifting

The ground under your house is always changing. Think about the weather: rain saturates the soil, making it expand. Then, when it's hot and dry, the soil shrinks. This cycle of expanding and contracting puts pressure on your foundation. In areas with clay soil, this effect is even more pronounced because clay expands and shrinks a lot. Over time, this constant pushing and pulling can create stress points, and if there's already a tiny crack, it can start to widen.

• Spring: Wet soil expands, pushing against the foundation.

• Summer: Dry soil shrinks, pulling away and creating gaps.

• Winter: Freezing water in the soil expands, causing further pressure.

This natural process means your foundation is always under some level of stress. Ignoring the signs of this movement is like ignoring a small leak in your roof – it rarely fixes itself and usually gets worse.

Recognizing the Early Warning Signs

So, how do you know if your foundation is moving? You don't need to be a structural engineer to spot the clues. Keep an eye out for these common indicators:

• Cracks: Small, hairline cracks might be normal, but wider cracks (more than 1/8 inch), horizontal cracks, or cracks that seem to be growing are red flags. Look for them on basement walls, exterior brickwork, or even around window and door frames.

• Sticking Doors and Windows: If doors or windows suddenly become hard to open or close, it could mean the frame is no longer square because the foundation has shifted.

• Uneven Floors: Floors that slope, feel bouncy, or have visible gaps between the floor and the wall can indicate that the foundation supporting them is no longer level.

• Musty Smells: Water seeping into the basement or crawl space through foundation cracks can lead to mold and mildew, creating a distinct unpleasant odor.

Why Foundations Move More Than You Think

It's easy to think of a concrete foundation as solid and unmoving, but it's actually quite dynamic. The soil beneath it is the main culprit. Different soil types react differently to moisture and temperature changes. Expansive soils, common in many parts of the country, can swell significantly when wet and shrink dramatically when dry. This constant cycle puts immense pressure on the foundation. Furthermore, the freeze-thaw cycle in colder climates adds another layer of stress. When water seeps into small cracks and freezes, it expands, widening the crack. As it thaws, more water can get in, and the cycle repeats, gradually weakening the concrete.

The combination of soil expansion/contraction and the freeze-thaw cycle means that even a well-built foundation can experience movement over time. This movement isn't always dramatic, but it's persistent and can lead to significant issues if left unaddressed. Addressing these issues early can be a much more affordable option, potentially allowing you to use your home equity for repairs if needed.

Here's a quick look at how costs can escalate:

Repair Stage	Estimated Cost Range
Minor Crack Seal	$300 - $800
Major Repair	$5,000 - $15,000
Structural Rebuild	$20,000+

Waiting to address foundation movement means you're likely facing more extensive and costly repairs down the line. It's a silent threat, but the signs are there if you know what to look for.

Beyond Cosmetics: The Real Dangers of Cracks

That little line you spotted on your basement wall? It’s easy to dismiss it as just a cosmetic issue, something you can slap some paint over. But honestly, it’s often a lot more than that. Ignoring these cracks is like ignoring a small leak in your roof – it might seem minor now, but it can lead to some serious headaches down the road. These aren't just blemishes; they're potential entry points for trouble.

Water Intrusion and Mold Growth

Think about it: water is persistent. Even a tiny crack can let moisture seep into your foundation. This water doesn't just sit there; it can find its way into your basement or crawl space. Once inside, it creates a damp environment that's perfect for mold and mildew to start growing. This isn't just about an unpleasant musty smell, either. Mold can damage your home's structure, including insulation and drywall, and it can seriously impact your family's health, leading to allergies and respiratory problems. It’s a cycle that’s hard to break once it starts.

Structural Integrity Compromised

Cracks are a sign that your foundation is under stress. This stress can come from the soil around your home constantly shifting due to changes in moisture and temperature. When the soil expands and contracts, it pushes and pulls on your foundation. A crack means that pressure has already caused damage. If you have horizontal cracks or walls that seem to be bowing inward, that’s a big red flag indicating significant movement. This kind of shifting can affect the entire structure of your house, leading to problems like uneven floors, doors and windows that stick, and even cracks in your exterior brickwork. It’s not just the foundation that’s at risk; the whole house is.

Impact on Indoor Air Quality

We've touched on mold, but the impact on air quality goes deeper. That dampness and potential mold growth can release spores and other contaminants into the air you breathe every day. Beyond mold, moisture can also attract pests like insects and rodents, which can further damage your home and introduce allergens. Poor indoor air quality isn't just uncomfortable; it can have long-term health consequences for everyone living in the house. Keeping your home's foundation sound is a direct way to protect the air you breathe. Addressing foundation issues promptly can help prevent these issues from affecting your home insurance coverage down the line.

The soil beneath your home is always moving. Weather changes, like heavy rains in spring or dry spells in summer, cause the soil to expand and contract. This constant shifting puts pressure on your foundation. What starts as a small crack can widen over time, especially with the freeze-thaw cycles in colder climates, where water seeps in, freezes, expands, and breaks down the concrete further. Ignoring these signs means you're letting a small problem become a much bigger, more expensive one.

The Price of Patience: Repair Costs Over Time

It’s easy to look at a small crack in the wall or a slightly uneven floor and think, "I'll get to that later." We all do it. Life gets busy, and sometimes, those little home issues just don't feel like a top priority. But here's the thing about home repairs, especially those related to your foundation or structure: they rarely fix themselves. In fact, they almost always get worse, and with that worsening comes a bigger price tag.

Minor Fixes vs. Major Restorations

Think of it like a small cut. If you clean it and put a bandage on it right away, it heals up fine. Ignore it, and it could get infected, requiring antibiotics and a doctor's visit. Home repairs work on a similar principle. A hairline crack in your foundation might be a few hundred dollars to seal up properly. Leave it, and that crack can widen, allowing water to seep in, which can then freeze and expand, making the crack even bigger. Suddenly, you're not just looking at sealing a crack; you might need underpinning, soil stabilization, or even structural reinforcement. What started as a manageable issue can balloon into a project costing thousands, sometimes tens of thousands, of dollars.

Here’s a general idea of how costs can climb:

• Minor Crack Repair (Early Stage): $300 - $800

• Significant Foundation Repair (Delayed Action): $5,000 - $15,000

• Extensive Structural Rebuilding (Severe Neglect): $20,000+

Addressing issues early means smaller, more manageable repairs instead of large-scale structural restoration. It’s about preventing the problem from becoming a crisis.

Emergency Repairs Command Premium Pricing

When a problem becomes an emergency – say, a sudden leak that's flooding your basement or a visible sag in your roofline after a storm – you don't have the luxury of shopping around for the best price. You need it fixed now. Contractors know this. Emergency services, often performed after hours, on weekends, or during bad weather, come with a significant markup. You're paying for their immediate availability and the urgency of the situation. What might have been a standard repair costing a few hundred dollars a month ago could now cost double or triple that because it needs immediate attention.

Waiting for a problem to become an emergency almost guarantees you'll pay more. It's like waiting until your car breaks down on the highway to get an oil change – the tow truck and the rush repair will cost far more than routine maintenance.

Exponentially Higher Expenses with Delay

The longer you wait, the more complex and expensive repairs become. This isn't just about foundation issues; it applies to many parts of your home. For instance, a small roof leak might cost around $500 to fix initially. However, if left unaddressed, that water can damage insulation, drywall, and even the underlying wooden structure of your roof. This can lead to mold growth and further structural weakening. Eventually, you might be looking at a full roof replacement, which can easily run into the tens of thousands of dollars, not to mention the interior repairs. It’s a classic example of how addressing roof issues promptly offers significant financial advantages. Delaying maintenance means you're not just paying for the original problem; you're paying for all the secondary damage it caused, plus the higher cost of a more extensive repair.

Protecting Your Investment: Property Value and Resale

Think about it: your home is probably the biggest investment you'll ever make. So, when little cracks start showing up in the foundation, it’s easy to just think, 'Oh, that’s just cosmetic.' But here’s the thing, those small fissures can really mess with how much your home is worth when it’s time to sell. Buyers, and especially home inspectors, are trained to spot these issues. A foundation problem, even a small one that’s been ignored, can be a huge red flag. It makes potential buyers nervous, and honestly, who can blame them? They start wondering what else might be wrong under the surface.

How Foundation Issues Devalue Your Home

It’s not just about the cost of repairs; it’s about the perception. When a home inspector points out foundation cracks, it can make buyers think the whole house is unstable. This often leads to them asking for significant price reductions or walking away altogether. Studies show that homes with foundation problems can sell for 10-15% less than comparable homes without issues. Sometimes, buyers will even ask for repair credits that can run into thousands of dollars, even for what seems like minor damage. It’s a tough pill to swallow when you’ve put so much work into your home.

The Inspector's Red Flag

Home inspectors are thorough. They’re looking for anything that could signal a bigger problem down the road. A foundation crack, no matter how small, is a clear indicator that something is going on with the soil beneath your house or with the foundation itself. It’s not just a cosmetic flaw; it’s a sign of potential structural stress. This can halt a sale in its tracks or, at the very least, give the buyer a lot of negotiating power. They might worry about water getting in, or worse, about the long-term stability of the structure. It’s why getting those small cracks checked out early is so important; it keeps your home looking good to potential buyers and avoids these stressful inspection surprises.

Maintaining Marketability

Keeping your home in good shape, especially the foundation, is key to making it sellable. When you address foundation issues promptly, you’re not just fixing a problem; you’re protecting your home’s marketability. It means fewer headaches when you decide to list your house. You won’t have to worry about a deal falling through because of an inspection report. Plus, having a solid, well-maintained foundation can be a selling point in itself. It shows you’ve taken good care of your property. If you’ve had foundation work done, make sure you have all the documentation, including any warranties on recent work foundation repairs. This transparency can give buyers peace of mind and help your sale go smoothly.

Ignoring small foundation cracks can turn a manageable issue into a major financial burden. It impacts not only the structural integrity of your home but also its appeal and value to potential buyers, often leading to significant price drops or even failed sales.

DIY Pitfalls and the Importance of Professional Assessment

It's tempting, right? You see a small crack in your foundation, maybe on a basement wall or even outside. Your first thought might be, "I can fix that myself." You've probably seen a dozen videos online showing how to mix up some patching compound and slap it into the crack. It looks easy enough, and who wants to pay for a professional when you can just do it yourself?

Why Surface Sealants Don't Solve the Problem

Here's the thing: those hairline cracks, or even slightly bigger ones, are usually just a symptom of a bigger issue. Think of it like a headache. You can take a pain reliever, and the headache goes away for a bit. But if the headache keeps coming back, you need to figure out why you're getting headaches in the first place. Is it stress? Dehydration? Something else? Foundation cracks are similar. Slapping some sealant over the top might make it look better for a while, but it doesn't address what's actually causing the crack. This could be anything from soil shifting around your foundation to water pressure building up against your walls. Ignoring the root cause means the problem will likely just reappear, often worse than before.

The Risks of Voids and Unaddressed Issues

When you try to patch a crack yourself, you're often just covering up a problem. You might not be filling the entire depth of the crack, leaving voids behind. Water can still get in, and worse, it can freeze and expand during colder months, making the crack even bigger. If the issue is related to structural movement, your DIY patch won't do anything to stop that movement. It's like putting a band-aid on a broken bone. Over time, these unaddressed issues can lead to more serious problems, like water intrusion into your basement, mold growth, or even compromising the overall structural integrity of your home. It's a gamble that rarely pays off.

What a Professional Inspection Entails

So, what should you do? Bring in the pros. A foundation specialist isn't just going to look at the crack; they're going to look at the whole picture. They have the tools and the know-how to figure out what's really going on. Here’s a general idea of what you can expect:

• Detailed Assessment: They'll examine the crack itself – its size, direction (vertical, horizontal, or stair-step), and if there's any moisture present. They'll also check the surrounding areas for other signs of stress.

• Identifying the Cause: Professionals can determine if the crack is due to normal settling, soil expansion and contraction, hydrostatic pressure, or more serious structural issues.

• Professional Tools: They might use specialized equipment like moisture meters, laser scanners, or even ground-penetrating radar to get a clearer picture of what's happening beneath the surface.

• Tailored Solutions: Based on their findings, they'll recommend specific repair methods designed to address the underlying problem, not just the visible crack. This could range from crack injections to more involved solutions like underpinning or wall stabilization.

It might seem like an extra step, but getting a professional opinion early on can save you a lot of headaches, and a lot of money, down the road. They can tell you if that crack is something to watch, or if it's a sign that you need to act fast.

When to Call for Expert Foundation Evaluation

So, you've spotted a crack. Maybe it's small, maybe it's a bit bigger. It's easy to think, 'I'll just slap some sealant on that,' or 'It'll probably be fine.' But honestly, when it comes to your home's foundation, guessing isn't the best strategy. There are definitely times when you need to stop playing DIY detective and bring in someone who really knows their stuff.

Identifying Critical Crack Indicators

Not all cracks are created equal. Some are just surface-level and might not mean much. But others? They're shouting for attention. Keep an eye out for these specific signs:

• Horizontal cracks on foundation walls. This is a big one, often signaling serious pressure pushing inward.

• Vertical cracks wider than 1/8 inch, or any crack that seems to be getting bigger over time. Grab a ruler and check – if it's growing, that's a problem.

• Stair-step cracks in block or brick foundations. These often follow the mortar lines and can indicate settling or shifting.

• Cracks near windows and doors that cause them to stick or not close properly. This means the frame is likely out of alignment.

If you see any of these, it's time to get a professional opinion. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the bones of your house. Getting a professional assessment can help you understand the true nature of the issue and avoid future headaches. You can find more information on foundation repair costs to get an idea of what might be involved.

Signs of Structural Shifting

Sometimes, the cracks are just one piece of the puzzle. You might notice other things happening around your house that point to a bigger foundation issue. These are the signs that your home's structure is actually moving:

• Bowing or bulging walls, especially in basements. This is a clear indicator that something is pushing on the wall.

• Uneven floors. If one part of your house feels lower than another, or floors feel bouncy, the foundation underneath might be settling unevenly.

• Gaps appearing between walls and ceilings, or around window and door frames. This suggests the structure is pulling apart.

• Sticking doors and windows that weren't a problem before.

These aren't just minor annoyances; they're signals that the very support system of your home is compromised. Ignoring them can lead to much more significant and expensive problems down the road.

When to Seek Immediate Professional Help

There are certain situations where you absolutely shouldn't wait. Delaying action in these cases can be risky and costly. If you notice any of the following, pick up the phone and call a foundation expert right away:

The longer you wait to address foundation issues, the more complex and expensive the repairs tend to become. What might start as a manageable fix can escalate into a major structural undertaking if left unattended. Early detection and intervention are key to protecting your home's integrity and your financial investment.

• Any horizontal crack on a foundation wall. This is a serious warning sign.

• Walls that are visibly bowing or leaning inward.

• Significant water intrusion into your basement or crawl space that seems to be coming from the foundation itself.

• Cracks that are rapidly widening or showing signs of new movement.

• Chunks of concrete crumbling or falling from the foundation.

When in doubt, always err on the side of caution. A professional inspection will give you a clear picture of what's happening and what needs to be done. They can identify the root cause and recommend the right solution, saving you stress and money in the long run.

Strategic Timing for Home Repairs

Leveraging Favorable Weather Conditions

When it comes to home repairs, especially those involving the exterior like your roof or foundation, the weather plays a bigger role than you might think. Trying to patch a roof on a windy, rainy day is not only difficult but also dangerous. Choosing the right time of year can make repairs safer, more effective, and often less expensive. For instance, spring and early fall usually offer milder temperatures and less precipitation, which are ideal conditions for many types of work. This allows contractors to do a better job and reduces the risk of water damage occurring during the repair process itself. Think about it: you wouldn't want a repair crew working on your roof while a storm is brewing, right?

Avoiding Seasonal Repair Peaks

Just like holiday shopping gets hectic and more expensive around the major holidays, so do home repairs. Certain times of the year see a huge surge in demand for contractors. After a major storm, for example, everyone with roof damage suddenly needs a repair person, and the wait times can be long. Prices can also go up because contractors are in high demand. Planning your repairs during off-peak seasons, like mid-winter (if the weather permits) or late spring, can mean shorter wait times and potentially better pricing. It’s about being smart with your schedule to get the best service.

Preventing Future Water Damage

Timing your repairs can also be a proactive step against future problems, particularly water damage. Small cracks in your foundation or minor leaks in your roof, if left unaddressed, can become major headaches when the heavy rains of spring or the snowmelt of winter arrive. Addressing these issues before the extreme weather hits is key. For example, fixing a small roof leak before the rainy season can save you from dealing with water stains, mold, and potential structural issues down the line. It’s about getting ahead of the curve and protecting your home's integrity. A little bit of preventative work now can save you a lot of trouble later, especially when it comes to keeping your home dry and sound. Remember, addressing minor issues promptly can prevent them from escalating into costly structural damage, and regular inspections are key to identifying these problems early, especially around areas like flashing, which is vital for keeping water out and maintaining the roof's integrity. addressing minor roof leaks

Your Proactive Homeowner Action Plan

Okay, so you've spotted a crack. Maybe it's small, maybe it's a bit bigger. The first thing to remember is that you're not alone, and you've got this. Taking a smart, step-by-step approach now can save you a lot of headaches and money down the road. It’s all about being a savvy homeowner and not letting little things turn into big problems.

Conducting a Thorough Visual Inspection

Don't just glance at the crack and move on. You need to do a full sweep, both inside and out. Think of yourself as a detective for your own house. Walk around the entire outside of your foundation. Look for any cracks, no matter how small – vertical, horizontal, or even stair-step patterns. While you’re out there, check the ground around your foundation. Is water pooling anywhere? Does the ground slope away from the house, or towards it? Poor drainage is a big clue.

Then, head inside. If you have a basement or crawl space, that’s where a lot of the action happens. Grab a good flashlight. Shine it along the walls, especially in the corners. Look for any signs of moisture, discoloration, or even mold. Check the floor too. Are there any hairline cracks on the concrete slab? Sometimes, you might notice gaps where the walls meet the ceiling, or even see the rebar sticking out if things are really bad. It’s about getting the whole picture, not just focusing on one spot.

Documenting Observations for Clarity

Once you’ve done your inspection, it’s time to write it all down. This isn't just for your memory; it's super important for when you talk to professionals. Take clear photos of everything you find – the cracks, any water stains, drainage issues. For each crack, jot down where it is (like "north basement wall, near the window"), its size (use a ruler if you can), and its direction (vertical, horizontal, etc.). Also, note if the area is dry, damp, or if you see active water. And don't forget to write down the date you observed everything. This creates a timeline.

Keeping good records shows you’ve been attentive and helps experts understand how things might be changing over time.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to note:

• Location: Be specific (e.g., "East foundation wall, 5 feet from the corner").

• Size & Direction: Measure width and note if it's vertical, horizontal, or stair-step.

• Moisture: Is it dry, damp, or actively leaking?

• Date: When did you first notice it or when did you observe the current state?

Knowing What Questions to Ask Experts

When you call in a professional, you want to be prepared. You’re not just looking for someone to patch a hole; you want to understand what’s going on. Here are some things you should be ready to ask and discuss:

• What type of crack is this? Is it just cosmetic, or is it a sign of a bigger structural issue?

• What’s causing this crack? Is it soil movement, water pressure, something else?

• What are the potential long-term effects if this isn’t addressed?

• What are the recommended repair options? Are there different levels of repair?

• What is the warranty on the repair work?

• Can you explain the process and timeline for the repair?

Don't fall into the trap of thinking a quick fix from the hardware store will solve a foundation problem. Those sealants might look good for a little while, but they don't address the underlying issues like soil pressure or structural stress. It's like putting a band-aid on a broken bone – it doesn't actually heal anything and can hide the real problem until it gets much worse.

By taking these steps – inspecting thoroughly, documenting carefully, and asking the right questions – you’re taking control. You’re not waiting for a disaster; you’re actively protecting your home and your investment.

Don't Let Small Problems Become Big Headaches

Look, nobody wants to deal with home repairs. It’s easy to see a little crack or a damp spot and just… ignore it. You tell yourself it’s probably nothing, or that you’ll get to it later. But here’s the thing: those small issues rarely fix themselves. In fact, they usually get worse, and a cheap fix can turn into a really expensive one before you know it. Think about your home like a car – regular check-ups and fixing little things early saves you from a breakdown on the side of the road. So, take a look around your place. If you see something that doesn’t seem right, don't wait for it to become a major problem. Getting it checked out now is the smartest move you can make for your home and your wallet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the first signs that my foundation might have a problem?

Keep an eye out for small cracks in your basement walls or around windows and doors. You might also notice doors or windows that stick when you try to open or close them, or floors that feel a bit uneven or bouncy. Sometimes, a musty smell in the basement can mean water is getting in through a crack.

Are all cracks in my foundation bad news?

Not necessarily. Very thin, hairline cracks that don't seem to be getting bigger are often just from the concrete settling as it dries and might not be a big deal. However, cracks that are wider than a dime, horizontal, or look like they're growing are usually signs of trouble that need a closer look.

Why is it so important to fix small cracks right away?

Think of it like a small cut that can get infected if you don't clean it. Small cracks can let water into your home, which can lead to mold and damage your walls and floors over time. Also, the soil around your foundation constantly shifts with the weather, and this movement can make small cracks much worse, turning a simple fix into a major repair job.

How much more expensive can repairs get if I wait?

The cost can go up a lot! A small crack might only cost a few hundred dollars to fix. But if you wait, the problem can get bigger, leading to more damage that could cost thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars to repair. Plus, emergency repairs often cost more than planned ones.

Can foundation problems really hurt my home's value?

Yes, they definitely can. If you try to sell your home, a home inspector will likely find foundation issues. This can scare buyers away or make them offer much less money. It's like a big red flag that makes potential buyers worry about future costs.

Is it okay to just patch up cracks myself?

While it might seem like a quick fix, using sealants or patching materials yourself usually doesn't solve the real problem. These fixes often just cover up the crack without addressing why it happened, like soil pressure or water issues. The problem can then continue to get worse underneath the patch.

When should I definitely call a professional for my foundation?

You should call a pro if you see horizontal cracks, walls that are bulging or leaning, cracks that are wider than 1/8 inch, or if you notice water coming into your basement or crawl space regularly. Also, if you see signs of the foundation sinking or lifting, it's time to get an expert opinion.

What's the best time of year to get foundation repairs done?

Generally, spring and summer are the best times. The weather is warmer and the ground is usually drier, making it easier for workers to access and repair the foundation. Plus, fixing issues before the heavy rains of spring or the soil shifts of summer can prevent further damage.