Foundation Crack in Albertson NY
They are ugly, suspicious and ominous-looking. Foundation cracks make homeowners frightened and for many good reasons. While some of them are hairline and hard to note, others are so overt that a homeowner has to be blind not to notice. According to the International Association of Home Inspectors (IAHI), over 80% of homes develop cracks within 10-15 years of construction.
A foundation crack should be a great source of concern because it portends much bigger problems. If you have a basement, you will also have to deal with moisture problems as water will ly flow during storms. With moisture leaks come’s toxic mold growth and this will increase your family’s medical bill. As the crack increases, the foundation becomes fully compromised and your precious home is in danger.
How do you deal with the problem once and for all? Here are some tips:
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Bank on a Contractor
According to the Concrete Foundations Association (CFA), over 78% of homeowners only run to the professionals when the problems have exacerbated. This means more expensive repair methods have to be used to repair the underlying problems. When dealing with any foundation problem, remember to always rely on professional expertise offered by a contractor.
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Diagnostic Test
As a conscious home owner you need to be on the lookout for any cracks and when you notice any, contact a foundation inspector immediately. These experts will intensely assess the situation using sophisticated gadgetry to identify the underlying problem. They are able to identify whether it is a structural or functional problem in order to recommend the best course of action.
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Maintain Your Foundation
The major cause of wall cracks is surface and ground water. To protect your foundation you need to prevent water flow towards the foundation. This can be done by correcting the grading away from the structure and cutting any trees next to the walls. You should also clean the gutter and downspouts for effective drainage. Other solutions include waterproofing techniques including installation of a weeping tile.
There are different types of foundation cracks and once your contractor identifies them, it becomes easy to offer a lasting solution. Common foundation crack repair techniques include epoxy injection and carbon fiber strips used with a resin.
While there are DIY kits in the stores, you need to understand that most cracks signal a bigger underlying problem. This highlights the need for a contractor’s input to avert further problems in future.
