When it comes to protecting your investment—whether you’re a homeowner, agent, or buyer—structural damage is not something to overlook. The good news? You can often spot key warning signs in just 10 minutes if you know where to look. Here are three critical areas to check so you can stay ahead of costly repairs.
1. Cracks: The Story Your Walls Tell
Look for This: Inspect walls, ceilings, and floors for cracks—especially near doors, windows, or where walls meet. While small, hairline cracks are normal, wide or jagged cracks could indicate foundation movement or settling.
Pro Tip: Horizontal cracks or diagonal stair-step cracks in brick or block walls are red flags for potential structural concerns.
2. Doors and Windows That Don’t Fit Right
Look for This: If doors or windows stick, won’t close properly, or appear uneven, it might not just be the home “settling.” Misaligned frames can point to shifting foundations or warping walls.
Quick Check: Close doors and windows fully. Do they latch easily and align with their frames? If not, it’s time to dig deeper.
3. Sagging or Uneven Floors
Look for This: Walk through the home and pay attention to how the floors feel underfoot. Floors that slope, dip, or bounce could signal weakened joists, foundation issues, or water damage.
Pro Tip: Use a marble or ball to test. Place it on the floor—if it rolls noticeably, you may have uneven flooring.
Why This Matters
Structural damage can lead to significant safety risks and major repair costs down the road. By knowing where to look and what to watch for, you can take action early and avoid surprises during a transaction.
At Entrust Home Inspections, we use advanced tools like drones and crawlspace robots and laser levels to thoroughly evaluate homes and provide detailed, same-day reports. We’re here to help you uncover any hidden issues before they become bigger problems.
Want Peace of Mind? Let’s Schedule a Full Inspection. Whether you’re buying, selling, or maintaining your property, let Entrust Home Inspections be your trusted guide.
📞 Call or Text: 661-220-5770
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