Do a Foundation Check This Fall
Updated: Nov 7, 2022
Your home’s foundation is easy to forget about. Often, we don’t pay much attention until there are big problems. What most homeowners don’t realize, is that your foundation should be regularly checked for signs of cracks and wear and tear from water damage. With all the fall exterior cleanup, it is a perfect time of year to check up on your foundation.
Inspection
Water leaks in the concrete foundation found under your home may be difficult to detect. Do an exterior perimeter check looking for signs of cracks. When water is accumulating under your foundation, it may eventually find a way out. If you notice water pooled in areas around the perimeter of your home without explanation, like a hose or sprinkler, you most likely have a slab leak.
Make needed repairs with concrete patching. If you see damages that are concerning, be sure to consult with a professional before making repairs.
Water can creep into your basement through cracks in your home’s foundation. Check the exterior of your foundation, basement walls, and floors regularly for signs of damage.
Hairline cracks are not worrisome and can be repaired fairly easily. Cracks larger than one-sixteenth of an inch could pose some problems and will need to be assessed by a professional. If you notice walls that are displaced or shifting, it should also be addressed immediately by a professional.
Watch Your Water Pressure & Bill
A water leak means less water getting to your faucets and water fixtures. If water fixtures are not being used and you notice a drop in water pressure, then you may have a leak.
If you’re noticing that your water bill is excessively higher than past months and you haven’t increased your water usage, then a leak may be the culprit. With a leak water is running 24/7, not just when you are using it. That will cause a spike in your water bill for the month.
Check for Signs of Damage
Water accumulation under your foundation may eventually make its way up into the floors of your home. Keep an eye out for unexplained warping, damp areas, or spots that may suddenly become darker.
Water damage doesn’t take long to result in mold and mildew. Saturated floors or damp walls will become a breeding ground very quickly. If you notice a sudden foul, musty, mildew smell then begin checking for other signs of a possible slab leak.
Slab leaks are directly related to your foundation and over time, it can affect the overall integrity of a structure. If you start to notice cracks in floors or walls, this could be an indicator of foundation trouble and a possible slab leak.
Run a Water Meter Check
If you have seen some of these signs, you can do a simple water meter check to confirm there may be a leak. If you’ve run a check and determined there is a leak, then it’s time to get in touch with a professional. A plumbing contractor will be able to do the appropriate analysis to determine the extent of the damage and what repairs may need to be made. Remember, the longer you wait to call a professional, the more extensive and expensive the damage may be.
Early detection is the key to minimizing damage and preventing future issues with your foundation. Checking for signs and making repairs immediately may end up saving you thousands of dollars in the long run.
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