Did you know that about 25% of homes in the US will experience structural issues at some point in their service life? What’s more, 5% of all homes will experience major structural issues that sometimes render them inhabitable. One of the most common issues with homes in the US is cracked foundations or other foundation problems.
A cracked foundation seems benign at first glance, but it has plenty of adverse effects on the stability of the building. Apart from being an eyesore, it can compromise your building’s structural integrity and cause other problems. In severe cases, the entire structure might become unfit for occupation.
Today’s post will look at some of the dangers of a cracked foundation and signs that your foundation has a crack.
Allows Water Seepage
Large cracks in the foundation may lead to water seeping into your building. Water will enter your home through the cracks and crevices in your foundation. This leads to a damp basement or a flooded one in areas with high groundwater levels.
Water seepage in your home means much more than just a musty basement. Excessive moisture in tight spaces presents the ideal mold growth and proliferation conditions. Your entire basement could be overgrown with mold if you’re not too careful.
Mold species, like black mold, are detrimental to your health and could put your entire home at risk. Plus, excessive water could weaken other structural elements and cause serious water damage.
Weakens Structural Elements
A cracked foundation can also lead to the weakening of other structural elements in your home. Remember, the concrete around the cracks will begin to break and crumble. Over time, these cracks get bigger and bigger and eventually let a lot of water in.
As mentioned above, water can wreak serious havoc on your home’s structural elements, like walls and columns. Apart from the water damage, it may lead to settlement of the foundation, resulting in uneven floors, jammed doors, and windows.
Creates a Conduit for Pests and Vermin
Cracked foundations are conduits for pests and vermin to get into your home. From bugs to mice, all kinds of critters can enter through these tiny cracks and crevices and make a home in your basement.
Pests are annoying, and some of them can also be dangerous. For example, termites can cause serious damage to the wooden beams and joists in your home. Similarly, rats and mice can gnaw at your electrical wiring, increasing the risk of house fires.
Some pests also carry diseases and could put you and your family at risk. To keep your family safe, make sure you take care of any cracks in your foundation as soon as you identify them.
Telltale Signs of a Cracked Foundation
Cracked foundations are certainly not something to be taken lightly. However, some homeowners have no idea that they have cracks in their foundations. Here are a few common signs that you have a cracked foundation.
Funky Smells From the Basement
Do you notice any funny smells coming from your basement? It could be a sign that you have a cracked foundation. As water seeps in through the cracks, it creates the perfect environment for mold growth, producing a weird smell.
If you notice musty odors coming from your basement, investigate right away. The sooner you identify the problem, the easier it will be to fix it.
Jammed Doors and Windows
If you’ve been having trouble opening and closing your doors and windows, a cracked foundation could be the reason. As the foundation settles, it can cause the frames of doors and windows to warp. This then makes it difficult (or even impossible) to open.
However, jammed windows don’t instantly mean you have a cracked foundation. Sometimes, excessive humidity might make the door and window frames swell, making them difficult to open. If the doors are jammed, and there are no signs of humidity, it’s probably the foundation.
Excessive Humidity in the Basement
Excessive humidity in the basement is another telltale sign of a cracked foundation. As water seeps through the cracks, it increases the moisture levels in the air. This leads to condensation on walls and floors and an overall musty smell.
In severe cases, the humidity may go beyond the basement. You might notice peeling paint or wallpaper, damp spots on walls, and water stains on ceilings. These are all signs that you have a serious problem with your foundation.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to get it checked out as soon as possible. A cracked foundation can cause a lot of damage to your home if left unchecked.
Uneven Floors
One of the most obvious signs of foundation cracks is uneven floors. As the foundation settles, it can cause the floors to sink in certain areas and become uneven. This leads to cracks in the flooring, creaking sounds, and doors that don’t close properly.
I Have a Cracked Foundation, What Next?
If you suspect a cracked foundation, you should first contact a professional. They will be able to assess the situation and determine whether or not your foundation needs to be repaired.
Don’t try to repair the cracks yourself, as this could worsen the problem. Leave it to the professionals who know how to fix it properly.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to get your foundation checked out as soon as possible. A cracked foundation can cause a lot of damage to your home if left unchecked. Ignoring the problem will only make it worse, so act fast.
A Cracked Foundation Is Dangerous!
Don’t let a cracked foundation compromise the safety of your entire family. Repair your foundation ASAP. While you’re at it, you might want to consider basement waterproofing to prevent water from seeping into your home.
Contact us today for professional and expedient basement waterproofing services.
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