Foundation repair is not a fun remodeling project. However, it is necessary. It is one of those projects that won’t stay the same until you fix it. The longer you ignore the signs the worse the problem will get. Know the signs that your NY foundation needs repair and don’t ignore them.
Excessive basement water leaks
Basement leaks usually equal foundation cracks. While there are some cases where water can seep through the concrete floors or walls, a water leak usually means there is a foundation crack. If there is excessive or perpetual water leaks then it is a sign your foundation may need repairs. If the cracks are nonstructural then the cracks will just need to be filled to stop the leak. However, if the crack is structural and is caused by settlement or the foundation moving, then you may need to look into NY foundation repair techniques to stabilize the moving foundation.
Concrete block walls are bowing
If your NY foundation is made with concrete blocks, you may see the issue of a bowing wall. Bowed walls are caused by pressure building up on the outside of the foundation wall. Typically this is hydrostatic pressure caused by water building up in the soil. Waterproofing techniques can relieve this hydrostatic pressure and foundation repair techniques can secure and/or straighten the bowing wall. Wall anchors can actually straighten the wall, while steel I-beams and carbon fiber systems brace the wall and stops it from moving anymore.
Windows and doors stick and interior cracks
One of the most common signs that your foundation is shifting is when your windows and doors don’t open and shut like they used to. If you have sticking windows and doors and interior cracks in the sheetrock, molding or gaps or cracks in the trim around the windows or doors, then you may need foundation repair.
Cracks and gaps on the outside of the house
Another sure sign your NY foundation is moving is when you see cracks or gaps on the exterior of your house. Cracks in the exterior walls, stair step cracks in the brick, or if the exterior façade is cracked or pulling away from the wall can all point to foundation repair. Cracks, in or around the chimney is also a sign the house is settling. There may be cracks by the chimney from the inside or the outside.
Sunken basement floors or patios
If you see your basement floor sinking or a gap between the floor and the wall that wasn’t there before, then your foundation is settling. Sunken concrete patios or patios that pull away from the foundation is also a sign that you may need foundation repair.
If you see any of these signs or combination of these signs, contact a foundation repair contractor right away. Don’t wait. Remember, if you ignore the issue, the worse it gets. It will become potentially dangerous and more costly the longer you ignore the signs that your NY foundation needs repair.
