Water Damage in Concrete Foundations
The first step to repairing water damage in concrete foundations is identifying the signs.
The foundation is the most vital part of the house. It provides the base for the entire building and ensures structural integrity. However, like other house parts, a slab isn’t indestructible. Heavy rainfall, poor drainage, soil foundation, and underground water are all potential contributors to concrete foundation degradation.
The first step to repairing water damage in concrete foundations is identifying the signs. This article identifies common signs of slab leaks as they come in various forms that aren’t always as straightforward to spot as a water leak.
Foundation and basement floor cracks
Cracks in the foundation are common and often not a cause for concern. Foundation cracks can occur due to soil shifting, large tree roots pushing up through the structure, or simply because of the natural settling of the house.
Still, these “natural” cracks shouldn’t be long and wide or too close to each other. Additionally, suppose there are also cracks in the basement floor, in structures attached to the house (a garage), or damage to interior elements such as a stone fireplace. In that case, they’re likely caused by water damage.
Moisture and damp patches
The natural state of a house foundation is dry. If there’s any moisture coming through, chances are there’s a water leak causing damage to the foundation. The quickest way to solve this problem is to investigate the leak source and immediately call a plumbing service.
Moldy walls
It’s no secret that moist areas are a breeding ground for various fungi and bacteria. However, they have no place in the interior of a house, which is why they’re one of the best indicators of a water problem.
Musty odor
With moisture and mold comes an unpleasant, musty smell. The smell is evident even if the mold and mildew are hidden in the walls.
Fortunately, this sign is nearly impossible to overlook. So, discovering a strange odor in the basement or other parts of the house should be quickly followed by contacting an experienced plumber.
Warped walls and uneven flooring
A damaged foundation can make the whole house lose its initial shape. However, this isn’t just an aesthetical problem, as leaning walls and sagging flooring can eventually cause the entire place to collapse.
Spotting these sometimes-subtle changes in their interior might be tricky for long-time residents. But coupled with other signs mentioned in this article, this change can make it clear that a water leak is eating away at the foundation.
Doors and windows that don’t close properly
Drafts and gaps between the doors and windows can signal an ailing foundation. As mentioned, foundation damage can cause uneven flooring and leaning walls. But it also affects other elements in the house, especially doors, and windows that are directly built into the walls.
Another sign of foundation damage connected to doors and windows is having trouble opening them. Doors or windows that stick are often due to high humidity and temperature changes. But they may also be signs of foundation damage, and that water is the culprit.
Solve underlying problems
Any of the listed signs can be detrimental to a house if they’re not inspected promptly. Contacting a professional will save money and prevent serious health risks and misfortunate events.
