How Much Settling Is Normal in a House?

You’ve probably heard someone say, “It’s just the house settling.” It’s true that all houses go through some degree of settling, often within the first few years after construction. The amount of settling generally depends on the composition of the underlying soil, but it’s not abnormal to see up to a few inches of sinkage.

However, if your house settles more than that, if it settles unevenly, or if it continues to settle over time, you may have cause for concern. Too much settling can lead to serious foundation issues. Some signs of excessive or uneven house settling include:

• Wall cracks — You may notice jagged cracks forming along your interior walls, often at a 45-degree angle.
• Sticking doors and windows — If you only have one sticking door or window, you might be able to attribute the problem to swelling or a warped hinge. If all of your doors and windows begin sticking, however, it could be due to disproportionate house settling.
• Window gaps — Look for open spaces between your window frames and the surrounding walls.
• Basement leaks — Foundation cracks can let water into your basement (they can also allow unwanted pests to enter your home!)

The Foundation Experts to Choose in Appleton, WI

If you own a home in the Appleton, Wisconsin, area and you’re concerned about house settling, turn to the professionals at ABT Foundation Solutions, Inc. We’re a trusted foundation repair company that’s been serving customers since 2002. We offer complimentary consultations to homeowners in this area, and we’d be happy to have one of our technicians visit your property, take a look at your foundation, and sit down with you to discuss whether any repairs are needed. Contact us to arrange an appointment at a date and time of your choosing.