If you aren’t sure of when a sinkhole will appear, look for any of the following warning signs.
Sinkholes can be a huge risk to your home, and while not every home is likely to suffer from one, it’s important to know the warning signs that show a sinkhole is coming. If you aren’t sure of when a sinkhole will appear, look for any of the following warning signs.
Problems With Your Doors, Windows, and Cabinets
Houses will settle after many years, and it isn’t too strange if there is a little unevenness around your home. However, there will be subtle warning signs that indicate a sinkhole may be forming. You’ll find that your doors won’t latch anymore, and they will get jammed. Your windows may not open as easily as they did before, or they might not open or close at all. It may also be tough to open and close your cabinets, and you might find that they sit unevenly.
You Start Seeing Cracks
A sinkhole is likely forming if you start to see cracks throughout your home. You might see cracks in your walls, especially along edges such as where your walls and ceilings connect and around places near your windows and doors. There could also be cracks in your flooring. Keep an eye on new cracks you spot, especially ones that seem to be growing.
Separating Walls and Slanted Floors
If there are walls and ceilings with gaps in them, it could mean there is a sinkhole around your property. Another sign of a sinkhole could be that you see trim and molding pulling away. Ask yourself if you feel your house is getting slanted or if you spot any warping, bulging, or sagging. If you do, you might want to get professional help addressing the problem.
Changes Around Your Yard
If there is a sinkhole around your property, your yard will indicate it for you. You might see tiny ponds of water, which are especially suspicious if water doesn’t normally collect in that area. The opposite could also be true. If an existing pond drains all of a sudden, you’ll want to get professional help. You could also have sagging trees and fence posts or fresh exposure around them where the ground sank.
Do a walkthrough of your yard and keep track of any slopes and dips your yard has. Do you have circular spots in your yard with dead plants or grass? A sinkhole will deprive plants of water because rainwater will drain into the sinkhole instead of keeping your plants healthy.
Concrete Visions Will Get The Job Done Right
Concrete Visions has been working with clients for over 25 years. Our G&M Services installers are certified with the industry’s major firestop product manufacturers. As part of our firestop service, we can assess abnormal field conditions and, with the manufacturer’s technical support assistance, provide engineering judgments in a timely fashion to comply with contract specifications. Our Field Mechanics undergo ongoing training, including mandatory monthly safety meetings, weekly Toolbox Talks where safety and equipment information is shred, and trainings on safe work standards and safety best practices.