HouseSymptoms field intelligence
Likely causes
Failure modes and building-physics mechanisms connected to the clues that support or weaken them.
cause 60ventilation-and-airflow 8roof-envelope 7building-structure 6drain-waste-vent 5appliance-connections 4domestic-water-supply 4exterior-wall-envelope 4cooling-and-air-conditioning 3foundation-and-ground 3insulation-and-air-barrier 3site-drainage 3space-heating 3electrical-distribution 2leak 2windows-and-doors 2
cause⌁
Differential settlement
Parts of the foundation move by different amounts.
cause⌁
Wood decay
Fungi break down persistently damp wood and reduce its strength.
cause⌁
Floor-joist deflection
Floor framing bends under load or due to span, damage or support conditions.
cause⌁
Drywall joint movement
Seasonal or structural movement reopens a finish joint.
cause⌁
Normal timber shrinkage
Wood dries and changes dimension, producing small gaps or checks.
cause⌁
Subfloor fastener movement
Floor layers move against fasteners and create squeaks.
