Living in the DFW metroplex, Central Texas, or South Oklahoma means dealing with shifting soil. The clay-heavy earth in our region expands and contracts with the weather, often putting immense stress on residential foundations. As a homeowner, spotting a new crack in your drywall or brick veneer can be alarming. Is it just cosmetic settling, or is it a sign of a serious structural failure?
At Tompkins & Associates, we believe the best decision you can make is an informed one. Before you call a repair contractor who might be eager to sell you expensive piers, here is why starting with a professional Structural Engineering Inspection is your safest bet.
The most common mistake homeowners make is calling a foundation repair company first. While many are reputable, they are ultimately in the business of selling repairs.
A Civil/Structural Engineer, on the other hand, provides an unbiased evaluation.
- We don’t sell piers: Our only goal is to accurately diagnose the health of your structure.
- Official Documentation: We provide Field Consultations with Letters that serve as legal documentation for real estate transactions, insurance claims, or peace of mind.
- Scientific Analysis: We analyze the load-bearing components of your home, not just the symptoms.
3 Signs You Need a Structural Inspection
While some settling is normal, watch out for these warning signs that indicate potential failure in your Slab or Pier & Beam foundation:
- Stair-Step Cracks: Look at your exterior brickwork. Cracks that look like a set of stairs often indicate that one part of your foundation is heaving or settling at a different rate than the rest.
- Sticking Doors and Windows: If doors suddenly jam or windows refuse to close, the framing of your house may have shifted due to foundation movement.
- Separation: Gaps appearing between the ceiling and walls, or between the chimney and the siding, are red flags.
What Happens During an Inspection?
Whether you own a manufactured home in Oklahoma or a traditional single-family home in Addison, our process is thorough.
We perform a visual survey of the property, checking the elevation of the floor, the condition of the framing, and the drainage patterns around the home.
- Slab Inspections: We look for signs of upheaval or cracking in the concrete.
- Pier & Beam: We assess the crawlspace for moisture issues, wood rot, or shifting piers.
Once the inspection is complete, we provide a clear report on the structural stability of the building. If repairs are needed, we tell you exactly what is necessary—and what isn’t—potentially saving you thousands of dollars in unneeded construction work.
Protect Your Investment Today
Don’t guess when it comes to the safety of your home. If you are buying a new property or worried about existing damage, get an expert opinion first.
