At Central NJSE, we understand that a structure’s appearance doesn’t always reflect its true condition. While a building may seem sound at first glance, a comprehensive inspection can uncover hidden issues such as water intrusion, wall cracking, or foundation deficiencies.

Our licensed structural engineers specialize in thoroughly evaluating commercial buildings and residential structures to ensure their safety and integrity. In addition to identifying concerns, we provide a detailed, actionable remediation plan to address any structural issues we discover.

Do any of these apply to your structure?

• Sloped floors

  • Sloping floors in a house can be caused by several factors, most commonly foundation issues like settlement or water damage, or structural damage to the floor joists or beams. Uneven floors can also be a sign of normal aging and settling of the structure. Addressing the underlying cause is crucial for repair. 

• Cracking in foundation

  • Foundation cracks, while often a natural part of a house's aging process, can be a cause for concern if they are too wide, or if they are accompanied by other signs of structural issues. Hairline cracks (less than 1/16 inch wide) are generally normal and often result from initial settling. However, cracks wider than 1/8 inch, or those showing water seepage, should be inspected by a professional. 

• Foundation settlement

  • Foundation settlement refers to the downward movement or sinking of a structure's foundation into the soil beneath it. This can occur due to various factors, including soil compression, changes in soil moisture, and poor construction practices. While some degree of settlement is normal after construction, excessive or uneven settlement can cause structural damage and require repair. This is especially critical if the structure is exhibiting signs of settlement many years after construction.

• Cracked drywall

  • Cracked drywall can be caused by several factors, including foundation issues, temperature and humidity fluctuations, or poor installation. While small cracks may be cosmetic, larger or diagonal cracks can indicate more serious problems like foundation settlement, and should be addressed by a professional, especially if they are accompanied by other signs of structural damage. Small cracks can often be repaired with patching compound and tape, while larger cracks may require more extensive repair or foundation work. 

• Water intrusion in basement/crawl space

  • Water intrusion in a basement/crawl space is a common problem often caused by hydrostatic pressure from groundwater building up against the foundation walls and floor. Other factors include poor drainage, cracked foundations, or leaks from pipes or appliances. 

• Bowed basement walls

  • Bowed basement walls, often caused by hydrostatic pressure (water buildup in the soil pressing against the foundation), can lead to serious structural issues if left unaddressed. The most common cause is water pressure, but other factors like poor construction practices, excessive rain, tree roots, or heavy paving can also contribute. Ignoring bowing walls can result in wall collapse, broken pipes, and costly repairs. Early intervention, like addressing poor drainage or reinforcing the walls, is crucial to prevent major damage. 

• Cracking in concrete slab

  • A crack in a concrete slab can range from a simple cosmetic issue to a sign of a more serious structural problem, depending on the crack's size, location, and pattern. While small, hairline cracks are often normal, wider cracks, especially horizontal or diagonal ones, may indicate foundation issues or other structural concerns. 

If you are experiencing any of the issues noted above, it’s time to give us a call

These are the most frequent issues we encounter, but we’re experienced in addressing essentially any other structural concerns that may come up. Rest assured that we’ve seen it all, and no job is too large or obscure.

That said, we do urge you to get in touch with us as soon as possible to come out for an inspection, as these issues have the potential to become even more severe over time. The health of your structure and its inhabitants is of utmost importance to our team. You can reach us at (732) 267-6582 or send us an e-mail at centralnjse@gmail.com

For all your Structural Engineering needs, choose Central NJSE.