
Ignoring foundation problems sets the stage for repeat damage. Sealing a crack without stabilizing the wall will reopen it; bracing a bowing wall without addressing water intrusion will only make it worse.
Foundation Repair Nashville uses professional inspection techniques, seasoned professionals can provide expert recommendations that prioritize repairs and waterproofing methods. The following is a brief look at the most common signs of basement issues:
Cracked Walls
Cracks in the basement walls are not always a big deal, but depending on their size and location, they can indicate serious structural issues. Whether they’re jagged, diagonal, or appear above the door frame, if they’re wider than 5 millimeters, you should consider calling a professional for a basement inspection. They could indicate that the foundation is shifting or that there’s stress on the structural supports.
Cracked walls can be the result of normal wear and tear, but they’re also a common symptom of structural damage caused by moisture in the soil. Fortunately, there are many basement waterproofing methods homeowners can use to stop leaks and prevent further damage.
The most effective and permanent methods involve keeping water away from the foundation walls. They are often referred to as “preventative” methods, and they can be used on their own or in combination with reactive solutions.
Using a waterproof masonry cement is one of the most common preventative measures you can take. This solution will stop rainwater from reaching the basement, which can cause hydrostatic pressure and lead to cracks. However, this solution doesn’t address the root of the problem, which is moisture that has seeped through the concrete and into the interior.
Another effective method is installing a drainage system. This involves digging a trench around the perimeter of the home and placing perforated pipe in it to collect rainwater. It then drains to an internal sump pump and is pumped away from the house. This is a more costly option, but it’s a long-term solution that can protect your home from flooding and foundation damage.
Newer homes are more likely to experience settling in their foundations, but this is a common issue that can affect older buildings as well. It usually occurs when the building materials are adjusting to their new environment. If the soil was poorly compacted during construction, it can settle unevenly over time, resulting in diagonal cracks in the walls. It can also be caused by changes in temperature, which make building materials expand and contract slightly. These changes can also affect the moisture content of the soil surrounding the foundation.
Leaks
Leaks can be a sign that your foundation needs repair or that your waterproofing isn’t working. If you have a puddle of water that appears after every rainstorm or if your basement feels damp, these are clear indications that it’s time to contact a waterproofing professional.
However, it’s important to determine the severity of your water problem before you decide which service to pursue first. If your home’s foundation is sinking or if there’s major structural damage, these issues must be addressed before waterproofing can help. Some techniques like slabjacking (injecting a mixture of soil, cement, and water beneath the foundation to lift it) or piering (using steel piers to drive into the ground and stabilize the foundation) can be used to fix these problems.
Waterproofing and foundation repair work together to keep your home safe, dry, and healthy. They address different issues, but many homeowners find that they need both services to manage moisture-related problems. Foundation damage allows leaks to enter the house, and moisture exacerbates structural problems by eroding soil and weakening materials.
If your basement is wet or if you see signs of mold growth or musty odors, this is an indicator that it’s time to call a professional for a waterproofing inspection. They’ll be able to recommend the right service to stop your home from becoming a disaster.
Basement waterproofing focuses on controlling moisture and preventing leaks by sealing entry points and redirecting water flow around the foundation. It uses techniques like interior French drains, sump pumps, and vapor barriers to keep moisture out of the house. Exterior drainage systems are also used to direct groundwater away from the foundation and prevent hydrostatic pressure. Window well drains can be installed to keep water from pooling around the windows and causing moisture problems. Lastly, a dehumidifier can be used to lower humidity levels in the home and prevent the growth of mold and other harmful organisms. Once the repairs and preventive measures are complete, a waterproofing company can provide you with an interior sealant to finish the job. This will create a watertight barrier that’ll ensure your home stays structurally sound for years to come.
Structural Issues
When a basement waterproofing system wears out, moisture can enter the home. This causes structural issues that may eventually compromise the home’s safety. A few signs that water infiltration is an issue include cracks in exterior and interior walls, bowing of basement or crawl space walls, and sagging floors or ceilings. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is a good idea to speak with a foundation repair specialist as soon as possible.
Most foundation problems involve the soil underneath the house. Poor drainage and natural settling can cause the soil to shift, putting pressure on the foundations. This can lead to sinking, uneven floors and walls, and weakened support beams. The best way to prevent these problems is to keep up with routine maintenance and inspections by a professional.
It is important to monitor cracks in interior and exterior walls for changes in size and direction. Some cracks do not need immediate attention, but others do. Diagonal cracks near windows or doors, stair-step cracking in brick or block walls, and wide horizontal cracks indicate more serious damage and stress and may require reinforcement and structural supports.
Bowing or leaning walls in a basement or crawl space typically signal external pressure from shifting soils, and can be very dangerous if left untreated. These symptoms may also be accompanied by sagging floors or walls and sticking doors, which often indicate undersized framing, moisture or weight-related problems.
Structural issues can be repaired with several different methods depending on the severity of the problem, and how much lifting or reinforcement is required. For minor issues, professionals can inject epoxy or polyurethane foam to seal and strengthen cracked walls. Carbon fiber straps provide extra strength and stability for shifting or buckling foundation walls, and can be installed without major excavation. Helical or push piers can lift and stabilize sinking foundations, and add support where joists are weakened or failing.
If you are experiencing structural issues in your home, it is a good idea to contact a foundation repair specialist as soon as possible. Doing so can help prevent further damage, lower property value and protect the safety of your family.
Cost
Foundation repair and waterproofing cost is influenced by a variety of factors. A few key variables include the severity of the damage, the type of repairs, and how much time the project takes to complete. Minor cracks and leaks tend to be less expensive, while bowing walls and other structural issues typically require more extensive repairs that can take longer to complete.
The first step in any repair process is a thorough inspection by a certified foundation specialist. They will identify the root cause of the problems, and recommend a solution tailored to your home’s needs. For example, if the foundation has settled or is sinking, they may install supports such as piers or hydraulic house jacks to lift the sunken areas back to their original elevation. The contractor will also need to excavate the soil, which can add to the overall cost of the job.
If the foundation is bowed or tilting, wall anchors or carbon fiber straps may be used to straighten the walls. These are installed through holes drilled into the foundation wall, and connected to earth or wall anchor rods that are driven underground. They are then tightened to stabilize the wall and, over time, can be adjusted to straighten it.
For leaking basements, waterproof sealants can be applied to cracks in the foundation walls and floor to keep moisture out of the basement. However, this preventative measure doesn’t address the underlying cause of seepage, so many contractors use it in combination with other waterproofing methods such as a vapor barrier or drainage membrane.
Other factors that can increase the cost of foundation repair include the size of your home, the soil conditions around your home, and the difficulty of accessing your basement or crawl space. For example, excavating the soil for a basement drainage system requires heavy equipment and can raise the final repair cost.
While the upfront costs of foundation repair can seem expensive, remember that fixing problems now will save money in the long run by stabilizing your home and protecting its value. If you can’t afford to pay for the repairs out-of-pocket, talk with your contractor about financing options. Many companies offer in-house financing, or can help you find a personal loan with low interest rates and flexible payment terms.








