Building Subsidence Inspection and Settlement
The Difference Between Settlement and Subsidence
Subsidence and settlement are two terms used to describe the downward movement of the ground. However, they refer to different processes and have different causes. Let’s look at each more closely.
What is settlement?
Foundation settlement and house foundation movement problems are surprisingly common and experienced across Australia. This is mainly because buildings or houses are heavy and some types of soils have poor load-bearing capability. Foundation settlement typically occurs when soil compresses (settles) or is washed away because of heavy rain or a water leak. This is common in both residential and commercial structures and can be damaging to your home or business.
How to tell if your house has foundation or structural movement
Some of the signs are wet basements, doors and windows that stick or if you find a crack in your foundation wall. If you have noticed any of these signs, contact us and talk to one of our engineers. At JHA Australia, we have the technology to provide you with options to rectify the problem!
What is subsidence?
Subsidence is the downward movement of the ground that supports the building. In the worst cases, cracking can be a sign of subsidence. This can be due to a range of factors, including clay soils, trees, and shrubs close to your dwelling.
How to tell if your house is subsiding
Subsidence could be occurring in your home or business if you find:
- New or growing cracks in plasterwork
- Cracks in exterior brickwork
- Doors and windows that are hard to open or are sticking for no reason
- Rippling wall paper that isn’t caused by dampness
While cracking is the most obvious sign of subsidence, seeing a crack does not necessarily mean that there is a problem. If you want to know exactly what the cause of your cracks are, get in touch with us today. With years of experience in the industry, we have the knowledge, tools and expertise to investigate the cause of your problems. We can then deliver a clear, concise report, so you know exactly how to proceed with any necessary repairs.
How do I go about getting an engineer's report?
You will need to contact a structural engineer to have them inspect your property and prepare a report. The engineer will visit your site, assess the structure’s condition, and take measurements. They will then prepare a report that includes their findings and recommendations.
A structural engineer report is a valuable tool that can help you understand your home’s structural condition and make informed decisions about any changes or repairs needed. Our structural engineers here at JHA can analyse the structure and make recommendations at an affordable rate. Contact us today to arrange a quote.
