If your home was built on timber, concrete or steel stumps, those supports play a crucial role in keeping the structure safe, level and stable. Over time, however, stumps can deteriorate due to moisture, shifting soils, termites or natural wear and tear. When this happens, the signs often start subtle—so subtle that many homeowners overlook them until the damage becomes costly. Understanding the early indicators can help you act before the problem escalates, especially when researching restumping costs and planning ahead.
Below are the most common warning signs your house may need restumping and why it’s important to take them seriously.
Uneven or Sloping Floors
One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of stump failure is uneven flooring. You may feel like you’re walking downhill in certain areas, or see items rolling across the floor without being touched. These shifts typically occur when some stumps settle or deteriorate faster than others, causing part of the home to dip.
If you notice soft spots, springy sections or creaking underfoot, it’s worth investigating further. A professional assessment can quickly determine if the issue is structural or surface-level.
Cracks in Walls, Plaster or Tiles
Hairline cracks are common in many homes, but widening or recurring cracks—especially around door frames, windows or along ceilings—can indicate movement beneath the house. When stumps fail, the frame is forced to twist or settle unevenly, placing pressure on walls and internal surfaces.
If you patch a crack only to have it reappear, it’s a strong clue that the underlying cause is structural rather than cosmetic.
Doors and Windows That Stick or Don’t Close Properly
Changes in alignment caused by sinking or rotting stumps often affect the operation of doors and windows. You might find that:
- A door rubs, sticks or won’t latch
- Window frames no longer sit square
- Gaps appear around frames
- Sliding doors jump off their tracks
These issues usually worsen gradually, so early detection is key.
Visible Gaps Between Skirting Boards and Floors
If your skirting boards suddenly look uneven or there’s a noticeable gap between the boards and the floor, it’s often a sign that the house frame has shifted. This can happen when certain stumps settle deeper into the soil while others remain in their original position.
These visible gaps are an indicator that the house is no longer sitting level—one of the clearest signs that restumping may be required.
External Cracks in Brickwork or Foundation
Outside your home, cracks in brickwork, visible separation between exterior walls, or movement around the foundation can indicate major stump deterioration. Because the subfloor structure carries the full load of the building, any stump movement can cause noticeable shifts on the outside façade over time.
This type of damage should be assessed promptly, as it can worsen quickly if left unaddressed.
Moisture, Termite Damage or Rot Around Stumps
If your home has timber stumps, rot and termites are common culprits behind structural failure. Excess moisture—especially in older homes—can rapidly weaken wooden stumps, making them unstable.
Checking the subfloor for visible signs of damage, soft timber or crumbling wood is essential. Early detection can save you from the inconvenience and cost of extensive repairs later.
A Noticeably Bouncy or “Sinking” Feeling in Certain Rooms
Some homeowners describe the sensation as “walking on a trampoline.” If a room feels like it sinks when you step into it, this usually means the stumps beneath that area have lost their load-bearing capacity.
This is especially common in older weatherboard homes, where timber stumps often degrade unevenly.
Water Pooling Around the Base of Your Home
Poor drainage is one of the biggest contributors to stump failure. If you frequently see pooling water after rain, or your home sits on damp soil, the moisture can accelerate deterioration—particularly for timber stumps.
Improving drainage is crucial, but if the damage has already begun, restumping may be unavoidable.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore the Warning Signs
Stump failure doesn’t fix itself. When left untreated, it can lead to:
- Major structural damage
- Safety risks
- Higher repair bills
- Uneven or collapsing floors
- Cracking walls and weakened frames
Restumping restores stability, ensures the home sits level and protects the long-term integrity of the building. Early intervention can significantly reduce repair costs and prevent issues from spreading throughout the structure.
As you can see, recognising early warning signs is the best way to protect your home from serious structural problems
If you’ve noticed any of the issues above, it’s worth organising an inspection from a reputable restumping specialist – they can assess the extent of damage, provide guidance, and help you plan the next steps with confidence. Being proactive can save you time, money and unnecessary stress.