Year after year the changing weather conditions from heat, humidity and cold test your home’s exterior. Few problems match the damage that water especially excess water can do to your home’s basement or foundation. Apart from the damage to foundation walls it can ruin carpets, result in mold growth, destroy family heirlooms and precious family photos. If you notice water in your basement it’s important to find how it’s getting into your home. The following tips from Wet Coast Drainage Solutions will help you understand the ways that water can affect your basement and foundation walls.
Hydrostatic Pressure
When the soil under your foundation becomes saturated with water it creates hydrostatic pressure against foundation walls. The resulting increase in pressure can cause walls to push inward, crack then bow. Next the water seeps through cracks and wall joints and you discover puddles in your basement. Hydrostatic pressure can occur during periods of heavy rainfall overtime.
Soil Expansion
The soil in some areas consists of clay and prone to expanding when saturated with water. Foundation walls will bow, lean and eventually crack as the pressure increases.
Soil Erosion
If the soil that supports your foundation erodes from excess water it can lead to foundation settlement and sinking. Some early signs of settlement to watch for are sloping floors, cracks in the foundation or walls or doors or windows sticking.
Inconsistent Moisture Levels
If some areas of the soil that support your foundation are dry and others become saturated with water this creates pressure against the walls. This uneven pressure can cause walls to crack or lean in one section.
The best way to protect your foundation walls and basement if you notice standing water in your basement and a settling of the foundation is having it inspected by a professional. In Victoria BC you want to make certain you have adequate drainage and your home’s foundation is waterproof. Contact a Victoria BC perimeter drains contractor for more help.