Homeowner FAQ About Foundation Damage and Remediation

Foundation damage can cause a variety of problems for homeowners. Home renovations are hard or impossible to complete when the foundation is not straight and stable. In addition, foundation damage can devalue the home and make it harder to sell. It's important to be able to identify the signs of foundation trouble in a West Edmonton home and take care of the problem before it's out of control. These tips can help.

How Can You Identify Foundation Damage?

Some signs of foundation damage are very obvious, other signs are less so. Some of the most obvious signs of foundation damage include:

• Stair stepping cracks in the foundation mortar
• Horizontal cracks in the foundation
• Bowing walls
• Large cracks in the walls in the basement, leading to water intrusion

In addition to these problems, homeowners who have foundation damage may notice problems like uneven floors. Sometimes in a house with foundation problems, doors and windows will become stuck open or closed.

It's also important to note that not all foundation cracks are signs of a foundation problem. The most problematic cracks are those that are over half a centimetre in width, or wider. Thin cracks, though not necessarily a sign of a problem, may need to be sealed in order to prevent moisture from leaking into the house.

What Causes Foundation Damage?

Foundation damage is most often caused by moisture in the soil. Excessive water in the soil pushes against the foundation, which in turn can cause the foundation to become bent, bowed or cracked. Sometimes the pressure against the house occurs when the water in the soil freezes and expands. Either way, foundation damage is a common problem after a flood or periods of intense rain.

What Should You Do If Your Home Shows Signs of Foundation Damage?

Homeowners who believe that their home has a cracked or damaged foundation should have their property inspected by a structural engineer. A good structural engineer can tell when the problems point to a real issue. After the evaluation, the engineer will tell the homeowner how to repair the damage if the home is in need of repair.

Can You Sell a Home With Foundation Damage?

Foundation damage must be disclosed to buyers. This type of problem can be a big deterrent to many buyers, who often shy away from homes that have major problems. Homeowners who want to sell their house without repairing their foundation may find that their home sells for far less than its normal value. Homeowners who want to get the most out of their home sale can first repair their foundation damage through a reputable and knowledgeable contractor.

Can Foundation Damage Be Repaired By the Homeowner?

Unless the homeowner is a contractor with the proper equipment to repair the foundation, this home repair should not be done as a DIY project. Foundations often need to be propped up or supported in order to be properly fixed. This is not something that a normal homeowner can do without the help from an experienced contractor.

If You Want to Sell Your Home With Foundation Damage, What Should You Do?

If you want to sell your home with foundation damage, contact a real estate professional in your area. Your real estate professional can tell you the approximate value of your home with and without foundation problems, and can help you negotiate a fair price for your house. The cost of foundation repair varies vastly depending on the type and extent of damage, so a real estate agent can be a valuable asset in assessing the value of a home with foundation damage.