The following warning signs can indicate the presence or beginning of a foundation problem or water damage in your basement or crawl space:
- Odor present in the basement or crawl space
- Someone in the house is getting allergies or is sick more often
- Water is seeping in
- Cracks in the walls
- Windows (or doors) upstairs don't open as easily anymore
- Downspouts overflow when it rains hard
- Basement appliances or fuse box is rusting
- Even though a sump pump is present, when the power goes off- the basement leaks
These signs can indicate that something may be going on down there. The next step is for you to take a look in the basement or crawl space. Look for these things:
- Running Water
- Water entering low on the walls, at the seam, through the floor or through the walls.
- Mold or Mildew
- Fungus grows in moisture-rich environments. It causes discoloring of surfaces.
- Peeling Paint
- Discolored, peeling paint can point to a water problem.
- Rust on Appliances or Furniture
- Means that you have high moisture levels, either due to high humidity or water seepage into the foundation.
- Dry Rot
- Appears as brownish-black fungus, usually on wood surfaces. It causes wood to decay.
- Foundation Cracks – in the wall
- Step cracks follow a block outline. Horizontal cracks usually indicate pressure from outside.
- Foundation Cracks – in the floor
- Indicates possible pressure that builds up under the floor. Can often see staining around the cracks.
- White, Chalky Substance on Walls
- This white matter is caused by drying of mineral deposits on walls, commonly referred to as efflorescence.