Common Structural Issues Found in Older Homes and How to Address Them
- Apex Engineers
- Apr 23
- 2 min read
While older homes have charm, character, and unique architectural elements, they often come with structural concerns due to age, outdated construction practices, or even regional factors (like our constantly shifting Midwest soil 🙂).
With over 25 years of experience providing structural assessments and designing solutions, our team has seen these issues time and time again - and we know how to help homeowners address them with confidence.
Common Structural Issues We See in Kansas City Homes
Foundation and Drywall Cracks Due to Foundation Movement
Foundation cracks due to settlement are often caused by consolidation of soils, expansive clay, or poor drainage. Signs of foundation problems might include sticking doors, sloped or heaving floors, or visible cracks in walls or foundations.
Bowing or Leaning Basement Walls
This is a common issue in the Kansas City area, typically caused by hydrostatic pressure or soil movement - especially during expansive cycles. Walls may appear to bulge inward or lean, indicating stress from shifting soils around the foundation.
Sagging Floors or Roof
Uneven floors or ceilings with a noticeable dip are sometimes signs of undersized or overstressed framing. Over time, moisture or added weight - like storage in the attic - can cause joists to bend or weaken. It's a frequent issue in older homes and one that's worth checking out, especially if it seems to be getting worse.
Home Renovations Not Up to Code
Older homes often come with a history of DIY remodels or unpermitted work that might not meet current building standards. This can be especially risky if structural elements - like walls or columns - were removed without proper review. What looks like a simple fix could actually be hiding a much bigger issue behind the drywall.
Unsafe Decks
Decks built 15 to 20 years ago or more often lack proper lateral bracing or secure ledger board attachments. If your deck feels bouncy, tilts, or shows signs of rot, it's a good idea to have it evaluated for safety.
What to Do if You Spot a Problem
If you've noticed one of these issues in your home, don't panic - most cracks and sags aren't catastrophic. However, you should document changes by snapping photos with your phone and noting movement over time. If the issue continues or worsens, a structural engineer can give you clarity and peace of mind.
After visiting your home and discussing your concerns, the engineer will provide a stamped report that clearly outlines what's going on, why it's happening, and what (if anything) needs to be done about it. If repairs are needed, they can design a solution - such as a new beam, bracing system, or foundation repair detail - so that the contractor or specialist you hire is working from an accurate, engineer-approved plan.
From there, you can confidently approach a contractor, architect, or foundation repair company knowing you're asking for the right fix - not an upsell.
Want help figuring out what's going on with your home? You can learn more and schedule an evaluation here.
Comments