Signs of a Foundation Problem

The Four Stages of Water Penetration:

* Stage One - You may notice:
A damp smell
Damp spots on the foundation
Mold or mildew
No water, but efflorescence (white powdery crystals)
Discoloration of foundation
Blistering paint

* Stage Two - You may notice:
Walls wet to the touch
Water or droplets where the wall meets the floor
A combination of signs from first stage

* Stage Three - You may notice:
Water on floor or walls
Seepage where wall meets floor which may cause damage to carpet, paneling and furniture
Seepage of silt with water

* Stage Four - You may notice:
Mud and heavy water running in
Holes in walls
Movement of foundation

Why Foundation Problems Occur

Four Common Causes:

1. High Water Table Rain, melting snow or underground springs will contribute to a high water table. Water pressure continues to build up underneath the basement floor and against the foundation walls.
2. Soil Settlement As the ground surrounding the home settles, foundation movement may occur. The imbalance of pressure may result in cracked or bowed walls. This movement may also shift the water-resistant protection on the foundation's exterior, causing water to seep into or under the walls and floor.
3. Capillary Soil Veins Topsoil will absorb some water, but as the ground becomes saturated, water follows to the "path of least resistance". Water flows toward the excavated area surrounding the foundation and is absorbed by the porous concrete of the basement floor and walls. Foundations can absorb several hundred gallons of water during an average rainstorm.
4. Hydrostatic Pressure As water flows toward the foundation, its increasing weight builds up around the basement. The constant pressure eventually results in water seepage through cracks in the foundation or between block joints.