Why Doors Stick and Walls Crack When a House Is Settling

When Normal House Settling Becomes a Problem

You’ve probably heard that some settling in a house is normal. While that’s true, “normal” does not always mean harmless. The question is knowing when settling has crossed the line into a serious foundation issue.

Your home sits on what’s called the active soil zone, the layer of soil most affected by moisture changes. In Michigan and Indiana, this soil expands when wet and shrinks when dry. Over time, that constant movement can leave gaps beneath your home, reducing support and threatening structural stability.

Think of clay soil like a sponge. It swells when wet and shrinks when dry. When your home rests on soil that behaves this way, the structure can rise, settle, and shift repeatedly. Eventually, that movement can lead to foundation damage.

Warning Signs of Dangerous Foundation Settlement

If you notice any of the following issues, it may be time to seek professional help:

• Sagging, sloping, or bouncy floors, often caused by settling or weakened floor supports
• Foundation wall cracks or movement, including stair-step, horizontal, or vertical cracks
• Cracks above ground, such as drywall cracks near doors and windows or brick separation outside
• Sticking doors and windows, especially when frames appear out of square or gaps are heavily caulked
• Separating chimneys, which are heavy and often built on separate foundations

Small cracks and shifts often grow over time, leading to more expensive repairs if ignored.

When to Call a Foundation Expert

If you see these warning signs, the best next step is to contact Ayers Basement Systems for a free inspection and estimate. With more than 40 years of experience, our team specializes in diagnosing and permanently stabilizing foundation settlement issues. We also repair garages and retaining walls.

Foundation problems affect your home’s safety, value, and your peace of mind. Take care of the foundation now and leave the scary stuff for Halloween.