When a foundation needs repair, there will often be subtle signs that homeowners can look for. While many homeowners ignore cracks, small leaks, and other seemingly minor foundation problems, these problems can quickly worsen and lead to more severe issues that require more extensive and expensive repairs. At Tom’s Basement Waterproofing, we have five decades of experience helping homeowners find affordable solutions to restore their home’s foundation to its structural integrity. Let’s look at some common signs your foundation needs inspection or repairs.
Cracks in Foundation Walls
The most obvious sign that your foundation may need repair is noticeable cracks that form in the walls of the foundation. These cracks may take on several different patterns and orientations. You may notice vertical or horizontal cracks in the walls of your basement or other areas. Stair step cracks that mimic the appearance of stairs are also commonly seen in foundation walls and basements. While not all cracks indicate that your home’s foundation is starting to fail, having an expert inspect new cracks in a foundation is crucial to ensure the foundation’s structural integrity isn’t degrading. When foundation cracks are caught early, they can be fixed before they lead to more extensive damage to your home and its foundation.
Water Intrusion and Leaks in a Basement
When water starts to enter a basement or crawlspace, it is a sure sign that the foundation needs repair. As water continues to make its way through cracks in a foundation, it can quickly lead to the rapid deterioration of its integrity. When temperatures drop, water that has worked its way into cracks can expand and exert large amounts of pressure on a foundation, leading to more cracks. Water can also lead to other problems in a basement, including mold and mildew. Mold and mildew, besides being a severe health hazard, can damage items you may be storing in a basement. If you notice water making its way into a basement or mold and mildew starting to grow, contact a basement waterproofing professional immediately to prevent further damage to your foundation and harmful mold and mildew from spreading.
Bowing or Leaning of Basement Walls
Moisture levels in soil can exert a large amount of hydrostatic pressure on your foundation. This can lead to walls in your basement bowing or leaning inwards, which indicates that a severe problem could develop. As water makes its way into the soil, it can cause the soil to expand, which is the force that drives your foundation’s walls in. This risk increases around foundations that don’t allow water to drain away from your home properly. The next time it rains, walk around your home’s foundation and look for areas where water pools. If you notice this or that the walls of your foundation are bowing or leaning forward, it’s time to call the professionals to inspect your foundation.
Why It’s Crucial to Repair Your Foundation at the First Signs of Trouble
As many signs and symptoms of foundation trouble appear mild, it is easy for homeowners to put off scheduling an inspection or repair services. This, however, can quickly backfire and lead to much more extensive and expensive foundation repairs if early signs of trouble are ignored. By scheduling a foundation inspection at the first signs of trouble, you save significant time and money, as more minor repairs can prevent future damage to your foundation.
Contact Tom’s Basement Waterproofing For A Free Foundation Repair Estimate
When you notice the first signs of foundation damage, call the Tom’s Basement Waterproofing team at (586) 949-7826. We proudly help homeowners across Michigan find affordable repair solutions to common foundation and basement issues.