Subsidence
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Possible subsidence issues?
If you have noticed any cracks in the walls of your home, or your patio or path has developed a “bit of a tilt” or is coming away from the walls, you may have fears about subsidence.
Build Doctor offers a cost-effective method for identifying the likely cause of any movement in your home. Once identified, I can access a range of resources for correction.
I can investigate the potential subsidence. With an initial visit, diagnosis, and, generally, the connection of a subsidence gauge to measure any further movement in your home.
I will then arrange two further visits during which I can monitor & photograph further movement if it occurs.
After (usually) 3 months, a complete diagnosis, together with a bespoke remedial plan (if required), will be submitted.
Please use the contact box at the foot of the page to make an appointment.
You can read much more about subsidence in our article here
Subsidence and/or Settlement?
Understanding Subsidence and Settlement: What Somerset and Wiltshire Homeowners Should Know
Homeownership comes with joys, responsibilities, and occasional surprises, sometimes unwanted surprises!
In Somerset and Wiltshire, we’re surrounded by stunning landscapes, bustling vineyards, and charming villages. However, even in these beautiful settings, homeowners must stay alert for signs of structural troubles, namely subsidence and settlement. This isn’t a horror story; think of it more like a gentle reminder to keep an eye on your lovely home.
What’s the Difference between Subsidence & Settlement?
Before you start picturing your beloved home tumbling into a vast abyss, it’s essential to differentiate between subsidence and settlement. Though these terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to different scenarios.
Settlement
Subsidence
On the flip side, subsidence is more serious. It occurs when the ground beneath your home starts to give way, causing it to sink unevenly. Subsidence can derive from a variety of factors, including changes in moisture levels, mining activities, tree roots drinking up water, or even poor soil conditions. Think of it as your home throwing a mini-tantrum because its foundation isn’t quite happy.
Identifying the Signs
So, how do you know if your house is playing tricks on you? Here are some telltale signs to keep an eye out for:
Cracks in the Walls
While every home has a few harmless hairline cracks, large cracks, especially those wider than a centimetre or angled cracks, can be a sign your home is settling or subsiding. Inspect both interior and exterior walls, as well as around windows and doors.
Doors and Windows Sticking
If your doors or windows suddenly decide to play hide and seek—sticking or failing to close properly—it may indicate that your frames are no longer aligned, possibly due to subsidence.
Uneven Floors
A sloped or bouncy floor isn’t just a sign of an outdated dance floor; it might indicate that your home needs attention. Check for dips or uneven tiles.
Bowing Walls
If your walls seem to be curving inwards or bulging out, alarm bells should ring. This can be a sign of significant subsidence, and professionals should be called immediately.
What To Do?
If you discover any of these indicators, don’t panic! The first step is to take a deep breath and contact Build Doctor. I can assess the situation and determine whether you’re dealing with ordinary settlement or something more sinister.
Beyond enlisting a professional, always ensure proper drainage around your property, do some tree management, and keep your garden well-watered—but not too well! If you’re ever in doubt, remember that prevention is key. Regular maintenance and being proactive about potential issues can save you a lot of trouble down the line.
And there you have it! With these tips, Somerset and Wiltshire homeowners can navigate the risks of subsidence and settlement with a bit of knowledge and a dash of light-heartedness. After all, home is where the heart—and sometimes a little cracking—are!
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