June is National Homeownership Month: Know the Early Signs Before They Become Expensive Repairs

Owning a home is one of life’s biggest milestones and for most people, it is the largest financial investment they will ever make. That is why June, recognized as National Homeownership Month, is the perfect time to take a closer look at the condition of your home. This includes not just what you can see, but also what is happening underneath the surface.

At Madole Construction, we help homeowners throughout Northern Nevada identify issues that often start small but can lead to serious and expensive damage. Cracked concrete, foundation problems, and moisture in crawlspaces are some of the most common concerns. Addressing these early can help protect your home, your health, and your wallet.

Signs of Foundation Trouble That Should Not Be Ignored

Many homeowners overlook subtle changes around the house because they seem cosmetic. In reality, these symptoms often signal foundation settlement, shifting soil, or structural stress. If you notice any of the following, it is a good idea to schedule a professional inspection.

• Cracks in concrete slabs or walls
  Cracks that appear in your driveway, foundation, garage floor, or basement walls can be more than surface-level damage. While small cracks are normal over time, wider or growing cracks may be signs that the foundation is under pressure or moving unevenly.
• Uneven floors or stair-step cracks in brickwork
  When your floors feel sloped or bouncy, or you see stair-step patterns in exterior brick or block walls, it usually means part of the foundation is settling more quickly than the rest. This can lead to structural imbalance.
• Doors and windows that stick or do not close properly
  If doors that once opened easily now feel stuck or your windows no longer slide smoothly, there may be shifting in your home’s structure. Foundation movement can warp frames and change the way your doors and windows fit.
• Gaps forming between walls, ceilings, or baseboards
  When you begin to see gaps where your wall meets the ceiling or baseboards are pulling away from the floor, it may be because your home is no longer sitting evenly on its foundation. These are often signs of gradual but serious movement.

Why Crawlspace Encapsulation Matters

Crawlspaces are often ignored, but they play a major role in the health of your home. When left exposed to moisture and humidity, crawlspaces can become breeding grounds for mold, wood rot, and pests. They also contribute to poor indoor air quality and higher energy bills.

A professionally installed crawlspace encapsulation system creates a clean, dry, and sealed environment under your home. This process includes lining the space with a durable vapor barrier and, in many cases, adding insulation or drainage systems depending on the conditions.

Here is what crawlspace encapsulation can help with:

• Mold growth and wood rot prevention
  By keeping moisture out, you reduce the risk of structural damage caused by rotting wood and organic growth.
• Improved indoor air quality
  Up to half of the air in your home can come from the crawlspace. If that space is musty or damp, your entire home’s air quality suffers.
• Lower energy bills
  A sealed crawlspace helps regulate the temperature inside your home. This takes some pressure off your heating and cooling systems and can result in long-term energy savings.
• Protection from pests and insects
  Sealing off the crawlspace helps keep out rodents, insects, and other unwanted pests that are drawn to dark, damp environments.

Do Not Ignore Cracked or Sunken Concrete

Cracked, uneven, or sinking concrete around your home is not just a cosmetic issue. It can become a tripping hazard and can allow water to penetrate underneath, which leads to more erosion and movement. It can also be a sign that the soil beneath the surface is unstable.

Madole Construction uses modern techniques to lift and stabilize concrete without the need for full replacement. Our approach allows us to restore safety and appearance quickly and with minimal disruption to your property.

We help homeowners by:

• Lifting and leveling sunken slabs
  This restores the surface of your driveway, patio, or sidewalk and eliminates dangerous trip hazards.
• Preventing further water intrusion
  When cracks are sealed and concrete is stabilized, you reduce the risk of water entering and damaging the area underneath.
• Improving curb appeal and long-term durability
  Repaired concrete looks better and helps protect your property’s overall value.

Now is the Time to Take Action!

June is the perfect month to check in on your home. Whether you are seeing signs of structural issues or just want peace of mind, our team at Madole Construction is here to help. A free inspection can catch problems early and give you a clear understanding of your home’s condition.

Call us today or visit our website to schedule your free inspection. Your home deserves the best care, and we are ready to help you take the next step in protecting it.