Gaps and Separation as Foundation Warning Signs

Gaps around trim, walls, windows or exterior finishes can develop for several reasons. When they appear together with cracks, sloping floors or sticking openings, they can be useful evidence of broader building movement.

What matters most

Location, timing, change over time and the presence of other symptoms matter more than any single gap. Photograph changes and note whether the separation is growing.

See signs of foundation problems for the larger checklist.