Most houses have solid foundations, but they often suffer from cracks, especially due to wear and tear and weather. These cracks can be benign, others much less so. During a flood, a damaged foundation can cause much more water infiltration.
Learn about the importance of a foundation in good condition when it comes to flood and flood time.
The Role of Foundations in Our Homes
Foundations are essential. They are what keep our house standing despite the weather. They provide a physical barrier to what is underneath the slab and provide stability against possible ground movement.
Of course, a healthy foundation will help limit possible water damage. The stronger a foundation is, the less likely it is to crack and water seep in. However, even if your foundation is solid, it will not prevent the risk of flooding 100% of the time. Observing damage in the face of bad weather does not necessarily mean that there is a construction defect either. If your basement is enclosed with walls, it’s even possible to see the crack only once it’s too late.
Signs that your foundation isn’t healthy
Concrete foundations are strong and durable. But there are still some signs that can alert us to his health.
Openings that close badly
Doors or windows that don’t close properly can be due to worn wood or poorly done paint. However, it is recommended to check them regularly since it is a symptomatic indication of a foundation problem.
Horizontal cracks inside and outside the house
Sometimes foundations shift, in which case cracks inside and outside the house can appear. Usually, they are due to moist ground that freezes.
Trees planted too close together
Sometimes we have trees planted very close to our homes. In some cases, they can be the cause of sloping floors, a damaged sewer system, or damaged safety pipes. When liquid is present, they can infiltrate much more quickly if the ducts are damaged.
Smell of mould
Mold odors are already a sign that basements are usually infiltrated with water. This phenomenon is caused by the beginning of erosion of the foundation. As a result, water can penetrate the concrete and create mold on walls and floors.
A cracked chimney
If you have a chimney inside your home and you notice cracks in it, it is possible that it is a damaged foundation.
What to do if you doubt the waterproofing of your foundation?
First of all, precautions should be taken regarding flooding :
- Find out if your home is located in a flood zone by consulting the urban planning documents in your region
- Find out about the risk of flooding in your area
- Know the actions to be taken and the attitudes to adopt in order to intervene effectively during a flood
It is imperative to use the services of professionals if the damage requires refurbishment of the foundation or consolidation. Fissure Expert has many solutions and techniques to respond favorably to all your water infiltration problems. Contact our team for more information.
Need a Crack Repair Expert?
If you notice cracks on your foundation, it is important to act quickly. Fissure Expert offers professional foundation crack injection services throughout Quebec. Call a certified foundation crack contractor for a free estimate. We serve Longueuil, Laval, Gatineau and several other cities.