TIPS TO PROTECT CONCRETE FOUNDATIONS AGAINST WATER DAMAGE
Concrete foundations are built to last for decades, but just like the rest of a home, they require protection from the elements. One major issue that you don’t want to deal with is concrete foundation water damage. It can compromise the structural integrity of any building—big or small. Therefore, you need to be aware of the signs of foundation damage and what steps to take to prevent it.
SIGNS OF FOUNDATION DAMAGE
The following signs indicate that you may have foundation water damage and would need to call a professional for an evaluation.
FOUNDATION CRACKS
Cracks in the foundation bring on water damage. However, when enough water accumulates around the outside of the foundation, the pressure from the water pushing against the foundation’s surface causes cracks to appear. The necessary repairs can range from minimal to extensive.
FOUL SMELLS
You might notice a strong, foul smell that gradually seeps into your home's interior. One cause could be rotting wood that’s close to the concrete foundation and the areas that have been consistently exposed to water. Mold or mildew, which both have a foul smell, can also be the reason.
BASEMENT WALL STAINING
Foundation water damage will cause staining on your basement walls. If water remains on the concrete long enough, its surface will become discolored. Likewise, any minerals that are in the groundwater will also stain the concrete once the water evaporates. Over time, you might even notice stains on your floor and baseboards due to seepage from the foundation.
MOLD AND MILDEW
If you detect both odors and stains, you probably have a mold or mildew issue that resulted from water damage to your foundation. Gray, white, or green stains along the foundation's surface, particularly in regions that have been exposed to moisture, are specific symptoms to look out for.
UNEVEN FLOORS
There is a strong indication of foundation issues when the floor below no longer feels level. Any sagging, bouncing, or bumps fall under this category. You could try rolling a marble or another small, round object across the room to see if the floor is level. If the object suddenly accelerates or rolls off to the side, then the floor is uneven.
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