Foundation Subsidence is a serious structural issue that occurs when the ground or foundations beneath a property move downward, causing parts of the building to sink. In Irish homes, subsidence is commonly linked to ground conditions, shallow foundations in older properties, leaking drains, and the influence of nearby trees.
▢ Why Foundation Subsidence matters to homeowners
- Damage can worsen over time and is not cosmetic
- May lead to cracking, bulging and deterioration of walls and floors
- Can significantly affect property value, mortgage approval and insurability
- Commonly affects homes built before the mid-2010s in certain regions
▢ Common warning signs of Foundation Subsidence in Irish Homes
- Diagonal or tapering cracks in walls, often wider at one end
- Stepped cracking on external brick or block walls
- Doors or windows are becoming misaligned or starting to jam
- Uneven or sloping floors and gaps forming at skirting boards
- Localised sinking at corners or sections of the building
▢ Typical causes of Foundation Subsidence in Irish homes
- Poor or variable ground conditions beneath foundations
- Shallow foundations in older houses
- Leaking or damaged underground drains, washing away supporting soil
- Clay soil shrinkage during dry periods
- Tree roots extract moisture from clay soils near foundations
