Inspect Foundation for Cracks
Walk the perimeter and inspect the foundation for new or widening cracks.
DIY Cost
$0
If Ignored
$15k
Frequency
Once a year
Difficulty
Moderate DIY
Some experience helpful. Plan 2–4 hours and watch a tutorial first.
How to do it — step by step
Walk around the perimeter of your home and look at the foundation. Hairline cracks under 1/8 inch are usually cosmetic and can be sealed with hydraulic cement or epoxy injection. Horizontal cracks, stair-step cracks in brick, or cracks wider than 1/4 inch are serious and require a structural engineer's assessment. Also mark any existing cracks and recheck them in 6 months to see if they're growing. Unaddressed foundation issues are the most expensive home repairs.
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