We all know that the foundation of a home is critical for its stability, but did you know that the average US home weighs between 80 and 160 tons? And that’s not including the foundation, which adds an additional seven-and-a-half tons. So, can water damage a foundation? Let’s find out.
Foundation Water Damge: 5 Fast Facts
- Water damage to a home’s foundation can occur in a variety of ways, such as severe rain, floods, thawing snow, plumbing leaks, and damaged water lines.
- Hydrostatic pressure, expansive soils, and erosion of soil can all cause foundation damage.
- Signs of foundation water damage include foundation and wall cracks, pooling water in a crawlspace or basement, waterlogged windows and doors, and patches of mold or rotting wood.
- Hairline cracks in concrete foundations are usually not a cause for concern.
- Early foundation settling may not be immediately apparent.
Water damage to a home’s foundation can occur in a variety of ways, and the consequences and treatments are similarly diverse. Severe rain, floods, thawing snow, plumbing leaks, and damaged water lines can all cause water to collect around a house, creating hydrostatic pressure on the foundation. Additionally, expansive soils, which are found in almost every state, can absorb water and expand, putting stress on the house. Finally, rainwater or subterranean springs can wash away the soil that maintains the foundation, resulting in settlement.
Assess the Damage
To evaluate if a water issue has caused damage to the foundation, there are several indicators to look for. Cracks in the foundation, both inside and outside of the house, can be a sign of water damage. Additionally, pooling water in a crawlspace or basement, waterlogged windows and doors, and patches of mold or rotting wood can all be indicators of foundation water damage.
Take Action
If any of these warning signs are present, it is important to take action quickly to avoid escalating a negative situation. If neglected, the damage can become more severe over time, leading to foundation leakage, fractures in the walls or floor, and even the collapse of the home itself.
Call the Experts
It is essential to ensure that windows and doors are properly sealed to avoid moisture from seeping into the house and creating further water damage. Additionally, contacting a water restoration expert to evaluate the situation is important to determine if it is typical settling or foundation damage.
Water damage to a home’s foundation can have serious consequences, so it is important to be aware of the warning signs and take action quickly. By understanding the facts and taking remedial action, you can protect your home and avoid costly repairs.
