Cracks in the walls? Floors that slope? Doors that stick? John Killen evaluates the home's foundation and supporting elements and tells you what he sees.
Every home moves a little over time, and not every crack is a cause for concern. But some signs, like widening cracks, sloping floors, sagging rooflines and doors and windows that suddenly won't close, can point to structural problems that are expensive to fix if they're ignored.
A structural inspection from John Killen evaluates the home's foundation and supporting elements, looking for cracks, shifting, sagging and other conditions that could affect the stability or safety of the home. He documents everything he finds with photos and explains it in plain language.
When something needs a deeper evaluation, John will tell you, so you can bring in a structural engineer or qualified contractor with a clear picture of the concern.
These are common reasons homeowners and buyers request a structural inspection.
Stair-step cracks in block, wide or growing cracks, and cracks with displacement.
Floors that slope, bounce or feel uneven when you walk across them.
Doors and windows that bind, won't latch or show uneven gaps.
Dips in the ridge or roofline that may point to framing or support issues.
Structural issues tend to get worse over time. Water, soil movement and settlement can slowly shift a foundation or overload framing, and what starts as a hairline crack can become a costly repair.
An inspection helps you separate normal settling from conditions that need attention. For buyers, it can be the difference between a fair deal and an expensive surprise. For homeowners, it means catching problems while you still have options.
John's findings give you a clear starting point and photo documentation you can share with an engineer or contractor if further evaluation is recommended.
A structural inspection evaluates the visible foundation and supporting elements of the home:
No. Small hairline cracks are common as concrete cures and homes settle. Cracks that are wide, growing, uneven or accompanied by sloping floors or sticking doors are more concerning and should be evaluated.
No. John is a home inspector, not a structural engineer. He evaluates visible conditions and identifies concerns. When something warrants a deeper analysis, he'll recommend evaluation by a structural engineer.
Common causes include poor drainage, soil movement, water intrusion, settlement, overloaded or damaged framing, and wood decay from moisture or pests.
If you notice cracks, sloping floors or other warning signs, it's a smart step. Structural components are covered in every full pre-purchase inspection as well.
A structural inspection looks at the foundation along with the home's other supporting elements, like framing and roof structure. A foundation inspection focuses specifically on the foundation.
From your first phone call to your finished report, here's exactly what to expect when you hire John Killen Home Inspections.
Call, text or email John at 256-335-0028 or request your inspection online. Add radon testing or a whole-house thermal scan if you'd like.
John inspects the home from the roof to the foundation, using thermal imaging when needed to verify hidden issues.
When the inspection is finished, John encourages you to walk the home with him. He'll show you what he found, answer your questions and offer practical advice about repairs.
You receive a detailed, easy-to-read report with high-quality photos and clear descriptions the same day.
State of Alabama Certified • Licensed & Insured • Same-Day Reports • Thermal Imaging & Radon Testing • Serving Florence & the Shoals