When to Worry About Your Foundation

Your foundation is one of the most important parts of your home. It keeps everything level, stable, and safe. But over time, things can go wrong, and the signs aren’t always obvious.

If you live in Boston, you know that older homes, freezing winters, and heavy rains can all take a toll on your foundation. So how do you know when it's time to take action?

This guide will walk you through the warning signs and help you decide when to call a Boston foundation repair expert like JMS Masonry.

TLDR: Some signs that your foundation could use a professional assessment include cracks near windows and doors, long zigzag cracks in drywall, doors and windows that don’t close/open properly, or tilted or uneven floors. 

Why Your Foundation Matters

The foundation is what your house is built on. It supports the walls, floors, and everything else. If it starts to shift or crack, it can lead to big problems.

Some signs are easy to miss or seem harmless at first. But catching these early can save you money and protect your home from serious damage.

Cracks in Walls or Floors

What to Look For:

• Cracks near doors or windows

• Long or zigzag cracks in drywall

• Cracks in basement floors or outside brick

Small hairline cracks are usually not a problem, but larger cracks or ones that grow over time could mean the foundation is moving.

At JMS Masonry, we inspect cracks to see if they are harmless or signs of deeper issues. If you're unsure, it's better to get a second opinion than to wait. Reach out today!

Doors and Windows That Stick

What to Look For:

• Doors that don’t close right

• Windows that are hard to open

• Gaps between frames and walls

When your foundation shifts, it can cause your doors and windows to go out of alignment. If you start noticing this in more than one area of your home, it’s time to take a closer look.

Uneven or Sloping Floors

What to Look For:

• Floors that tilt or feel uneven

• Furniture that rocks or rolls on its own

Boston homes, especially older ones, often settle over time. But if your floors start to slope suddenly or you feel like you’re walking downhill in your house, there could be a bigger issue.

Water in the Basement

What to Look For:

• Wet spots or puddles in the basement

• Mold or musty smells

• Cracks that let water in

Water is one of the biggest threats to your foundation. Boston weather can bring heavy rain and melting snow, and if water isn’t draining properly, it can cause cracks or even shift your foundation.

Gaps Around the House

What to Look For:

• Space between walls and the ceiling

• Separation between the chimney and the house

• Gaps between bricks or concrete blocks

These are all signs that something might be shifting beneath your home. It’s especially important to pay attention to these if you live in a historic or older Boston property.

When Should You Call a Pro?

If you see more than one of these signs, or if a problem seems to be getting worse, it’s a good idea to call a foundation expert.

JMS Masonry specializes in Boston foundation repair, especially in older or historic buildings. Our team knows how to spot problems early and fix them before they get worse (and more expensive). We also understand local building codes and how to preserve the look and structure of classic Boston homes.

JMS Masonry for Expert Foundation Repair in Boston and Beyond

Foundation problems don’t fix themselves. If you think something might be wrong, get it checked out. A small repair today can prevent major damage tomorrow.

If you're worried about your home’s foundation, JMS Masonry is here to help. Contact us for a free consultation and let’s make sure your home stays strong for years to come.