House shifting is a common concern for many homeowners in Kansas City. It happens when parts of the foundation or structure move, often due to shifting soil, moisture changes, or aging materials. Kansas City’s clay soil and changing seasons make this problem more likely.
What Causes House Shifting?
The main cause of house shifting in our area is the soil. Kansas City has various soil types. One of them is clay. It expands or shrinks based on moisture levels. Common causes include:
- Expansive clay soil that moves with rain and drought
- Poor drainage around the foundation
- Improper grading that leads water toward the home
- Aging homes with weakened structural components
Pro Tip: Install proper drainage systems to reduce soil movement around your foundation.
Signs Your House May Be Shifting
It’s important to spot the warning signs early. These signs may start small but grow worse over time.
Things to watch out for:
- Cracks in drywall or ceilings that keep coming back
- Doors that won’t close properly, even after adjusting
- Sloping or uneven floors
- Gaps between walls and ceilings
- Garage floors or retaining walls that are pulling away
- Driveways or patios that are lifting or shifting
All of these are signs that your home is shifting and may need a structural check-up.
Shifting vs. Settling: What’s the difference?
These terms are often used together, but they mean different things.
What is Settling?
Settling happens when your house sinks downward into the soil. You might see:
- Doors or windows that stick
- Stair-step cracks in brickwork
- Uneven floors
What is Shifting?
Shifting is more about lateral or side-to-side movement. You might see:
- Foundation walls bowing inward or outward
- Concrete slabs pushing upward (heaving)
- Side walls leaning or pulling away
Understanding this difference helps us choose the right repair method.
Need expert help with house shifting? Contact Olson for a free consultation. We’ll inspect your home, explain what’s happening, and offer a clear plan to fix it.
How We Fix House Shifting
Every house is different. That’s why we start with a full inspection. After we know what’s going on, we suggest the best solution. Here are our common repair methods to fix house shifting:
- Steel piers to support sinking foundations
- I-beams to stabilize bowing walls
- Adjustable posts under sagging floors
- Beams and floor joists to strengthen weak areas
- Drainage upgrades to reduce soil movement
Our team has worked with all types of homes and soil types in Kansas City. We know what works and how to make repairs that last.
Key Takeaway: Fixing the root cause is just as important as fixing the damage. Soil and drainage must be addressed along with structural issues.
How Much Does House Shifting Repair Cost?
The cost to repair house shifting depends on how severe the problem is. A minor issue, like a sagging door frame, may be a few hundred dollars. More serious structural work, like installing piers or beams, could range from $3,000 to $15,000 or more.
We provide free estimates so you’ll know exactly what to expect before any work begins.
In summary
House shifting is a serious issue caused by soil movement, water problems, or structural wear. In Kansas City, the mix of weather and clay soil makes it more common than most people realize. We’ve seen everything from stair-step cracks in brick to garage slabs pulling away from the house. Knowing the signs early and acting fast can save you time and money.
Contact us today to schedule a no-pressure inspection. At Olson, we’ll help you protect your home with the right solution for your house shifting concerns.
