When To Call A Foundation Repair Professional
If you’re dealing with foundation cracks, moisture issues or sagging floors in your home or business, you likely need a foundation repair professional. For broader design, safety inspections or complex infrastructure, a structural engineer may be required. Knowing the difference helps you make the right call — and save time and money.
At The Crack Guys, we specialize in structural repair for residential and commercial foundations across Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi. Here’s what homeowners and property managers need to know when choosing between structural foundation experts and foundation repair professionals.
What Does A Foundation Repair Professional Do?
Foundation repair professionals specialize in diagnosing and fixing structural issues specifically related to your building’s foundation. Whether it’s a concrete slab, crawlspace or basement, these experts handle:
- Cracks in the foundation
- Moisture intrusion and waterproofing
- Uneven or sagging floors
- Settlement and soil-related damage
- Crawlspace encapsulation
- Slab lifting and pier installation
They’re trained to identify the root cause of the issue — such as tree root intrusion or water damage — and apply targeted solutions that reinforce and protect your structure.
Foundation repair specialists are ideal for homes and small-to-medium commercial buildings with visible or suspected foundation issues. They’re your go-to for specialty structural repair related to residential stability and safety.
What Does A Structural Engineer Do?
Structural engineers are licensed professionals who design, assess and ensure the safety of structures. Their work is broader in scope and often applies to:
- Skyscrapers and bridges
- Factories and warehouses
- Aircraft, naval vessels and infrastructure
- Disaster-resistant building design
- Load calculations and compliance with building codes
These professionals often work alongside civil, mechanical and electrical engineers on large-scale projects. While they can evaluate foundations, their focus includes every aspect of a structure’s framework.
Structural engineers are essential when you’re building or modifying a structure, or when municipal permits require a formal structural report.
Key Similarities
While they serve different roles, both foundation repair specialists and structural engineers are trained to understand:
- Foundation systems like slab-on-grade, pier and beam, and block-and-base
- The effects of soil movement, moisture and age on building stability
- Repair options for foundation cracks, shifting, and deterioration
Both are considered structural foundation experts, but they apply their knowledge in very different ways.
Key Differences
| Feature | Foundation Repair Professional | Structural Engineer |
| Primary Role | Diagnoses and repairs foundation issues | Designs and inspects structural systems |
| Best For | Homes and commercial properties with foundation damage | Large structures or engineering reports |
| Hands-On Repairs | Yes | No (typically provides plans or guidance) |
| Permitting & Code Reports | Sometimes required | Often required for major projects |
| Specialization | Foundation and crawlspace repair | Broad structural design across industries |
In short, if your concern is related to moisture in the crawlspace, sagging floors or shifting slabs, call a foundation repair specialist. If you’re building a bridge or need a certified inspection report, call a structural engineer.
When To Call A Foundation Specialist
Not sure whether your issue falls under specialty structural repair? If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s time to call a foundation expert:
- Cracks in drywall, floors, or ceilings
- Doors or windows that stick or won’t close
- Uneven floors or visible sagging
- A musty smell from the crawlspace or basement
- Signs of settlement or soil movement
These are common symptoms of foundation damage, and a foundation repair company can inspect and repair them quickly — without the cost or complexity of hiring an engineer.
Call The Crack Guys: Your Structural Foundation Experts
At The Crack Guys, we handle the tough jobs that keep your home or business standing strong. Our team specializes in structural repair, crawlspace waterproofing, slab lifting and more across Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi.
If you’re unsure whether your issue calls for a foundation repair professional or a structural engineer, give us a call. We’ll inspect your property, explain the problem and offer honest guidance on the best next steps.
Don’t ignore signs of foundation damage. Contact The Crack Guys today for expert help and peace of mind.
