Foundations·Crawl spaces·Wet basements

Is that crack a problem? Find out in 30 seconds.

Answer a few questions about what you're seeing. If it needs a closer look, we'll connect you with a local foundation contractor who serves your area.

  • Free to use
  • No obligation
  • Local contractors
Foundation check Step 1 of 7
Takes about 30 seconds

What the cracks are telling you

Most foundations crack a little. Direction and width tell you whether yours is cosmetic or moving.

Usually cosmetic

Thin vertical cracks

Common in poured concrete as it cures. Keep an eye on it. If it widens past ⅛ inch or lets water in, have it checked.

Have it inspected

Stair-step cracks

A crack zig-zagging through the mortar of a block wall means part of the wall is settling unevenly.

Don't wait on this one

Horizontal cracks

Soil pressure is pushing the wall inward. These tend to get worse with each wet season, and bowing usually follows.

Doors and windows that stick

Frames go out of square when the house shifts. Watch for gaps at the top of a door.

Floors that sag or bounce

Over a crawl space this often means damp joists or sinking support piers.

Water, white residue or a musty smell

Chalky white deposits on walls (efflorescence) mean water is moving through the concrete.

Check my foundation Free, no obligation, about 30 seconds.

How it works

  1. Answer a few questions

    Tell us what you're seeing and where. You'll see what your answers point to right away.

  2. Get matched locally

    We connect you with a foundation contractor who serves your ZIP code.

  3. You decide what's next

    The contractor gets your request and can contact you about next steps. Whether you hire them is up to you.

Questions homeowners ask

Is Plumbline a contractor?

No. Plumbline helps homeowners understand foundation, crawl space and water problems, and connects them with local contractors.

Will I get a flood of calls?

No. Your request goes to one contractor who serves your area, not a list of companies.

I'm buying or selling the house. Can I still use this?

Yes. Foundation issues come up in home inspections all the time, and hearing from a foundation contractor can help you understand what you're dealing with.

Straight answers about what’s going on under your house.

Foundations·Crawl spaces·Wet basements

Start the free check