Ruben Beard – Core Home Inspections

Ignoring foundation problems sets the stage for repeat damage. Sealing a crack without stabilizing the wall will reopen it; bracing a bowing wall without addressing water intrusion will only make it worse.

Foundation Repair Nashville uses professional inspection techniques, seasoned professionals can provide expert recommendations that prioritize repairs and waterproofing methods. The following is a brief look at the most common signs of basement issues:

Cracked Walls

Cracks in the basement walls are not always a big deal, but depending on their size and location, they can indicate serious structural issues. Whether they’re jagged, diagonal, or appear above the door frame, if they’re wider than 5 millimeters, you should consider calling a professional for a basement inspection. They could indicate that the foundation is shifting or that there’s stress on the structural supports.

Cracked walls can be the result of normal wear and tear, but they’re also a common symptom of structural damage caused by moisture in the soil. Fortunately, there are many basement waterproofing methods homeowners can use to stop leaks and prevent further damage.

The most effective and permanent methods involve keeping water away from the foundation walls. They are often referred to as “preventative” methods, and they can be used on their own or in combination with reactive solutions.

Using a waterproof masonry cement is one of the most common preventative measures you can take. This solution will stop rainwater from reaching the basement, which can cause hydrostatic pressure and lead to cracks. However, this solution doesn’t address the root of the problem, which is moisture that has seeped through the concrete and into the interior.

Another effective method is installing a drainage system. This involves digging a trench around the perimeter of the home and placing perforated pipe in it to collect rainwater. It then drains to an internal sump pump and is pumped away from the house. This is a more costly option, but it’s a long-term solution that can protect your home from flooding and foundation damage.

Newer homes are more likely to experience settling in their foundations, but this is a common issue that can affect older buildings as well. It usually occurs when the building materials are adjusting to their new environment. If the soil was poorly compacted during construction, it can settle unevenly over time, resulting in diagonal cracks in the walls. It can also be caused by changes in temperature, which make building materials expand and contract slightly. These changes can also affect the moisture content of the soil surrounding the foundation.

Leaks

Leaks can be a sign that your foundation needs repair or that your waterproofing isn’t working. If you have a puddle of water that appears after every rainstorm or if your basement feels damp, these are clear indications that it’s time to contact a waterproofing professional.

However, it’s important to determine the severity of your water problem before you decide which service to pursue first. If your home’s foundation is sinking or if there’s major structural damage, these issues must be addressed before waterproofing can help. Some techniques like slabjacking (injecting a mixture of soil, cement, and water beneath the foundation to lift it) or piering (using steel piers to drive into the ground and stabilize the foundation) can be used to fix these problems.

Waterproofing and foundation repair work together to keep your home safe, dry, and healthy. They address different issues, but many homeowners find that they need both services to manage moisture-related problems. Foundation damage allows leaks to enter the house, and moisture exacerbates structural problems by eroding soil and weakening materials.

If your basement is wet or if you see signs of mold growth or musty odors, this is an indicator that it’s time to call a professional for a waterproofing inspection. They’ll be able to recommend the right service to stop your home from becoming a disaster.

Basement waterproofing focuses on controlling moisture and preventing leaks by sealing entry points and redirecting water flow around the foundation. It uses techniques like interior French drains, sump pumps, and vapor barriers to keep moisture out of the house. Exterior drainage systems are also used to direct groundwater away from the foundation and prevent hydrostatic pressure. Window well drains can be installed to keep water from pooling around the windows and causing moisture problems. Lastly, a dehumidifier can be used to lower humidity levels in the home and prevent the growth of mold and other harmful organisms. Once the repairs and preventive measures are complete, a waterproofing company can provide you with an interior sealant to finish the job. This will create a watertight barrier that’ll ensure your home stays structurally sound for years to come.

Structural Issues

When a basement waterproofing system wears out, moisture can enter the home. This causes structural issues that may eventually compromise the home’s safety. A few signs that water infiltration is an issue include cracks in exterior and interior walls, bowing of basement or crawl space walls, and sagging floors or ceilings. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is a good idea to speak with a foundation repair specialist as soon as possible.

Most foundation problems involve the soil underneath the house. Poor drainage and natural settling can cause the soil to shift, putting pressure on the foundations. This can lead to sinking, uneven floors and walls, and weakened support beams. The best way to prevent these problems is to keep up with routine maintenance and inspections by a professional.

It is important to monitor cracks in interior and exterior walls for changes in size and direction. Some cracks do not need immediate attention, but others do. Diagonal cracks near windows or doors, stair-step cracking in brick or block walls, and wide horizontal cracks indicate more serious damage and stress and may require reinforcement and structural supports.

Bowing or leaning walls in a basement or crawl space typically signal external pressure from shifting soils, and can be very dangerous if left untreated. These symptoms may also be accompanied by sagging floors or walls and sticking doors, which often indicate undersized framing, moisture or weight-related problems.

Structural issues can be repaired with several different methods depending on the severity of the problem, and how much lifting or reinforcement is required. For minor issues, professionals can inject epoxy or polyurethane foam to seal and strengthen cracked walls. Carbon fiber straps provide extra strength and stability for shifting or buckling foundation walls, and can be installed without major excavation. Helical or push piers can lift and stabilize sinking foundations, and add support where joists are weakened or failing.

If you are experiencing structural issues in your home, it is a good idea to contact a foundation repair specialist as soon as possible. Doing so can help prevent further damage, lower property value and protect the safety of your family.

Cost

Foundation repair and waterproofing cost is influenced by a variety of factors. A few key variables include the severity of the damage, the type of repairs, and how much time the project takes to complete. Minor cracks and leaks tend to be less expensive, while bowing walls and other structural issues typically require more extensive repairs that can take longer to complete.

The first step in any repair process is a thorough inspection by a certified foundation specialist. They will identify the root cause of the problems, and recommend a solution tailored to your home’s needs. For example, if the foundation has settled or is sinking, they may install supports such as piers or hydraulic house jacks to lift the sunken areas back to their original elevation. The contractor will also need to excavate the soil, which can add to the overall cost of the job.

If the foundation is bowed or tilting, wall anchors or carbon fiber straps may be used to straighten the walls. These are installed through holes drilled into the foundation wall, and connected to earth or wall anchor rods that are driven underground. They are then tightened to stabilize the wall and, over time, can be adjusted to straighten it.

For leaking basements, waterproof sealants can be applied to cracks in the foundation walls and floor to keep moisture out of the basement. However, this preventative measure doesn’t address the underlying cause of seepage, so many contractors use it in combination with other waterproofing methods such as a vapor barrier or drainage membrane.

Other factors that can increase the cost of foundation repair include the size of your home, the soil conditions around your home, and the difficulty of accessing your basement or crawl space. For example, excavating the soil for a basement drainage system requires heavy equipment and can raise the final repair cost.

While the upfront costs of foundation repair can seem expensive, remember that fixing problems now will save money in the long run by stabilizing your home and protecting its value. If you can’t afford to pay for the repairs out-of-pocket, talk with your contractor about financing options. Many companies offer in-house financing, or can help you find a personal loan with low interest rates and flexible payment terms.

Whether from severe weather or house water systems failure, flooded basements can be a major problem for homeowners. Taking the right steps can help minimize damage and save you money in the long run.

First, be sure to shut off any power around the area. It’s also important to wear appropriate PPE if you need to enter a flooded space. Contact Flooding Colorado Springs for more details.

1. Turn Off the Power

Heavy rain and flooding can cause many problems in a home. If your basement is prone to flooding, it’s important to have a waterproofing company install a sump pump and preventative measures. You can also install water sensors around the pump to help you keep an eye on it. Before a storm hits, you can test your sump pump by pouring some water into it. If it’s not evacuating the water quickly enough, you may need to hire a professional to check the condition of your sump pump and possibly install a new one.

It’s important to make sure the electricity is turned off in a flooded basement. This can prevent electrical shocks and minimize damage caused by water. If you’re unable to reach the breaker box safely, call an electrician right away. You should also stay away from the flood waters, as they may contain dangerous bacteria and can contaminate your belongings.

If your basement is flooded, you should turn off your gas as well. This is especially important if you have natural gas appliances such as your water heater or furnace. A professional can assist you by turning off the gas supply safely and temporarily for you.

After ensuring the power and gas are turned off, you should remove as much of the standing water as possible. Utility pumps and wet vacuums can be helpful tools for removing water from your basement floor. It’s also important to document any damage that you can so that you have a record for your insurance company.

Depending on the amount of water in your basement and whether it’s contaminated, you may need to contact a property restoration company to clean and disinfect your space. They will use the appropriate personal protective equipment, specialized cleaning products and safe containment methods to ensure that your basement is free of mold and mildew after a flood.

It’s a good idea to contact a property restoration company even for minor basement flooding that only involves clean water. They can help you determine what caused the flood and recommend solutions for preventing future issues.

2. Remove Debris

The amount of debris that has accumulated in your basement after the flood will have a significant impact on how long it takes for the space to dry. If you have the ability to move things from your basement and keep them out of the way, it will speed up drying time by allowing air circulation and reducing humidity levels. If your basement has a floor drain, check that it hasn’t been clogged during the flood, and keep it clear to help the water flow out of the basement faster.

If you have a sump pump, locate it in the lowest part of your basement and make sure that it is working properly. During a flood, the sump pump works by taking excess below-ground water and directing it away from your home, preventing it from seeping back into your basement and other parts of the house. Investing in a new sump pump or maintaining your current one will help you save money on costly repairs and cleanup expenses.

It is important to remove all items that are salvageable from the flooded area as quickly as possible. This will help prevent mold from forming and reduce the risk of structural damage to your home. Items that have come into contact with flood water should be washed, disinfected and let dry in a well-ventilated area.

For items that can’t be washed, such as rugs, foam rubber mattresses and pillows, it is best to discard them instead of trying to clean them. If you are unsure whether an item can be saved, consult with a property restoration professional before making a decision.

In addition to minimizing mold and mildew growth, removing debris from your basement will help you find any areas that are prone to flooding in the future. Standing water, mold stains and foundation cracks can all be signs of a flooded basement. If you notice any of these issues, be proactive and call a third party contractor that is trained in cleaning, sanitizing and deodorizing from this type of damage. They can also provide information on updating, making improvements or repairs to your home that could prevent future flooding.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company

When it comes to your home insurance policy, you should promptly contact your agent to arrange a time for a claims adjuster to visit. You will want the adjuster to see the damage firsthand so that he or she can accurately assess your losses and make an informed decision about how much of a settlement is owed.

If your basement has a sump pump, it may help to turn that on before you call the insurance company so that the pump can start working on its own and remove some of the water. However, if you notice that the pump isn’t working or that it isn’t sucking out as much water as it should be, it is probably best to consult a professional restoration company.

It’s also important to survey the damage and take photos. You should write down a list of all items damaged in the flood and include their value. If you have any valuable antiques or family heirlooms, it is especially helpful to have a professional provide an estimate of their value.

You should also consider removing any carpeting that has been soaked in the flood water. It can be hard to dry properly and can harbor mold and mildew. A professional restoration company can advise you on whether wet carpeting can be salvaged or if it should be ripped out completely.

Lastly, you should check to see what caused your basement to flood. If the cause is a problem with your gutters, sump pump, or drain system, you should talk to a professional waterproofing company for guidance on how to make repairs.

After the flooding has stopped and you have dried up as much as possible, use fans and dehumidifiers to lower the humidity in your basement. High humidity can lead to additional water damage and household mold growth. You should check the basement frequently for signs of moisture, such as stains on the walls and floor or foundation cracks. Contact a BELFOR property restoration company for professional help if you see any of these problems. They can provide advice about cleaning and restoring your belongings and suggest strategies to reduce the likelihood of future flooding.

4. Call a Professional

If you’re not sure whether your flooded basement is safe to enter, it is essential to call an experienced professional. The water may contain harmful bacteria and debris that could pose a health risk to you and your family. Additionally, floodwaters often contain sewage and chemicals that require special protocols for cleaning and disposal.

Make sure to wear protective gear like boots, gloves and a mask before entering a flooded home. It’s also a good idea to bring a wet vacuum, a pool pump or a mop with a bucket for collecting excess water. You should also consider having your yard graded to divert rainwater away from your foundation and basement to prevent flooding during heavy rainfalls.

Thoroughly clean and dry all surfaces that came in contact with the floodwater. You’ll need to disinfect all items that were contaminated by the water, including drywall, flooring, upholstery and furniture. Be sure to take photographs of all items affected by the flooding, as this will help your insurance company process your claim and determine what items can be salvaged.

Be sure to remove any soaked carpeting from the basement, as it is at high risk of developing mildew and mold. Consult with a restoration specialist or carpet cleaning contractor for recommendations on drying these materials properly.

Once you have all of the floodwater removed from your home, it’s important to give the basement a few days to fully dry out. Open windows and doors to increase ventilation and place fans around the room to speed up the drying process.

To reduce the risk of future flooding to your basement, you should install an interior drainage system. This system connects to a sump pump in the lowest part of your basement and works by sending the water away from the foundation. Alternatively, you can also use weeping tile that is installed beneath the foundation of your house to collect and drain the water. These systems are much less costly and easier to maintain than a basement waterproofing system.

Foundation Repair and Basement Waterproofing