All styles and ages of homes can be affected by basement foundation leakage and seepage. This water and moisture can cause homeowners a variety of serious, potentially expensive issues, including:
- Damages to structure and/or personal belongings;
- Musty odors;
- Mold and/or mildew;
- Cracked walls;
- Cracks in the floor;
- Peeling paint;
- Efflorescence (white powdery substance);
- Rust on appliances or furniture;
- Warped paneling;
- Brown/black stains on the walls;
Any time you’re building an addition or remodeling an existing living space, ask your contractor what plans are in place for keeping your basement foundation dry. And remember that while cracks in basement foundations seem common, they certainly aren’t desirable.
Over time, foundation cracks normally widen, even to the point where structural integrity may be compromised. In addition to looking awful, basement foundation cracks actually decrease the appraisal value of your home.
Three prevalent methods for repairing cracks in basement foundations:
- Low-pressure epoxy or polyurethane foam or elastic sealants;
- Concrete repairs;
- Concrete patching;
Having foundation leaks repaired in your basement can be a quickly completed and financially sound investment. By keeping your basement slab in top shape, you’ll significantly decrease the probability of developing serious water/moisture issues in the future.