Many homeowners worry about jumping straight into foundation or structural repairs when sometimes monitoring is a safe option. The answer depends on the severity, cause, and progression of the damage.
✅ When Monitoring is Enough
- Hairline cracks (less than 1/8 inch wide) that don’t grow over months.
- Seasonal movement in clay soils, where small cracks open/close with weather.
- No functional issues like sticking doors, sloping floors, or water intrusion.
- New homes settling slightly within the first 2–3 years (often normal).
In these cases, contractors may recommend a wait-and-watch approach with periodic inspections.
⚠️ When Structural Repair is Necessary
- Cracks keep widening or lengthening over time.
- Doors/windows misalign, or floors slope noticeably.
- Water leaks through cracks in walls or slab.
- Large sections of the house show differential settlement (one part sinking faster).
- Tree roots or plumbing leaks are clearly damaging the foundation.
💡 Best Practice
If the issue is minor, many Houston contractors suggest annual monitoring with measurements. If movement progresses, then piers, slabjacking, or other foundation repairs may be needed. Acting early often prevents a small issue from becoming a major, costly structural repair.