Top 5 Structural Evaluation Issues & How to Deal with Them

After a Home Inspection Report Indicates a Potential Problem

Did you know that the age of the average home in Northeastern U.S. is 57 years old? As we continue to occupy aging houses, new structural problems will most likely arise. If a home inspector notices any structural issues when it comes to a home’s overall structural integrity, they will recommend a separate structural evaluation be performed by a structural engineer.

BUSTAMANTE ENGINEERS will be able to advise you on the type of contractor you should hire to do the job, which can be confusing as some of the root causes of these issues can fall under different categories. A proper structural inspection will indicate where the damage is, the probable causes, and provide you with a written report.

1. Foundation Issues - A strong foundation proves essential to a stable structure. Our structural engineers have specialized knowledge in foundation design and can provide structurally sound solutions if complicated issues exist.
   
   
2. Floor Sloping Issues - Though a sloped floor might be something you think you can live with, some of the issues that can cause them can lead to other problems down the road. Foundation issues, deteriorating wood support sills, improperly installed joists or sub-floors, and other issues can all cause a floor to slope or sag.
   
   
3. Compromised Roof Components - When roofs are damaged or altered, this can affect the structural integrity of the roof system. Obvious roof problems include visible sagging, cut trusses, and lack of ventilation. Because trusses are engineered components, typical building codes specify that repairs or alterations must be designed by a Licensed Professional Engineer.
   
   
4. Water Infiltration Issues - Our structural engineer will assess whether or not the weather, age, or water infiltration have compromised your home. This will help your repair contractor understand what needs to be done. We will also look for potential drainage issues.
   
   
5. Building Envelope Issues - Building envelope issues can quickly lead to costly property damage and safety issues. Problems such as foundation cracks or bowing walls can significantly damaged infrastructure and building envelope elements. 

A cracked foundation or walls, sagging ceilings, windows and doors that stick or will not close properly could all be signs of trouble. You might also notice bowing or bulging walls on the outside of the structure. If we find indications of weakness beyond normal settling that could compromise the integrity of your home’s structure, we will identify the measures that need to take place to repair the damage. It is best to fix smaller issues today before they become big headaches tomorrow.

Interested in Our Structural Engineering Inspection Services? 

Our structural inspections allow the homeowner to take advantage of our expertise by consenting to our inspection and evaluation of the structural conditions that are of concern. Our easy to read reports provide the necessary detail to identify a concern and provide the understanding of how to correct it. With expert knowledge and effective communication, BUSTAMANTE has been satisfying homeowners, sellers, buyers, attorneys and other real estate professionals for over 25 years.

BUSTAMANTE ENGINEERS is here to help!  If you have received a residential home inspection report that indicates a potential problem or just have concerns with the underlying structure of your home and are looking to make improvements, please click to contact us and let’s discuss how we may be of value to you.