Here in Colorado we have what are called expansive soils (soils that swell when wet and shrink when dry.) Cracking and movement in concrete slabs and foundations is common and typically when we see structural issues in homes, they have to do with drainage issues and the flow of water away from the home. The drainage issues expand and contract the soils, and in turn, damage concrete slabs and foundations.
Did you know there are times during a home purchase that, as a buyer, you may want to have structural engineer look at the home you are hoping to purchase?
In the context of residential real estate transactions, buyers can enlist structural engineers to evaluate homes they are interested in as part of their inspection process. Structural engineers frequently conduct inspections on existing homes to evaluate the structure and foundation of a home to ensure the home is safe, identify issues, and recommend necessary repairs. So what do buyers need to know about the role of structural engineers, what do they do, and what do they charge? Read on for answers.
When should a structural engineer evaluate a home:
-When a home inspector sees possible structural issues. During a regular home inspection, an inspector will flag any issues that warrant further evaluation.
-When cracks in the foundation are present
-When patios or decks are pulling away from the foundation/structure of the home
-When there is slab movement- cracking/heaving/movement in basement floors
-When floors in upstairs rooms have evidence of heaving or seem uneven
-When drainage issues are present, when there is negative sloping in the yard back towards the home, evidence of drainage mitigation (extended gutter tip downs, added french drains, added sump pumps.)
-When doors and windows don't close and latch well
-Cracking drywall
-Past history of structural fixes that would be good to evaluate
What does a structural engineer do?
A structural engineer will:
-Visit the home and take an in-depth look at the walls, foundation, floors, concrete slab, roof/attic, and exterior of the home.
-Look for evidence of settling, sagging, drainage issues, pest infestations (past or present)
-Assess the home's structural integrity and consider how current issues may affect the home in the future.
-Make recommendations as to future repairs, drainage issues, and how to monitor home for movement
-Write a report
What does an evaluation by a structural engineer cost?
Recently, engineers have been charging about $500 to visit the property and a bit more to provide a written report.
As always, if you have questions for us please don't hesitate to reach out. Until next time!
Allison and Ken
