Water can enter the basement in your Glen Burnie home through a variety of ways, including (but not limited to); over the top of the foundation, through the cove joint, or cracks in the wall or floor. Keeping your basement dry, safe, and healthy is our number one priority at American Eagle Services, and the best way to do that is to make sure any water or moisture issues are handled quickly, correctly, and efficiently.
7 Signs of Water Damage in Foundation
Water damage to your foundation can cause your house to shift, sink, or settle. That’s why you need to proactively identify the visible signs of water damage and solve the issue before it gets bigger. It’s important to identify and address damage before it causes your foundation to deteriorate completely. If you are unsure whether your basement is suffering from water and excess moisture exposure, here are some signs you should look for:
Cracks in Walls, Floors, Foundation & Ceiling
Cracks in walls, floors, foundation and the ceiling could mean that water is putting pressure on those structures. Hairline cracks are often harmless, but if cracks are larger than one-sixteenth of an inch, then you need to get them inspected by a professional.
Musty Odors
Musty odors are a strong indicator of mold growth. If mold growth is present, so is water. If you notice a musty smell coming from your basement that cleaning cannot solve, then you need to have it inspected for leaks.
Mold Growth
Mold growth is a good indicator that there is water present. In order for mold to grow, it needs moisture. If moisture is present for longer than 48 hours, then mold will grow and spread. Mold is not only an indicator of a larger water damage problem, but it also causes a lot of respiratory symptoms like coughing, sneezing watery eyes, itchy throat, and headaches. If you see mold, call to get it remediated right away.
Sinking Floor
Sinking floors in your basement is one of the most noticeable signs of water damage. Floors may also sink due to foundation settling or soil erosion, but because of its potential cause of water damage it is worth getting it checked as soon as it is noticed.
Peeling & Bubbling Paint
Peeling and bubbling paint are not normal signs of paint aging. Water causes drywall to deteriorate, and as it deteriorates it will begin to show through the paint. If you notice these signs on your walls, watch out for cement under the paint to begin to flake, also known as spalling. If you notice white salt deposits accumulating on the foundation, this is called efflorescence and is also a sign of water damage behind the walls. If any of these signs are present in your basement, call in a water damage restoration and waterproofing company right away.
Warping of Floorboards
Warping of floorboards and walls is a sign of water absorption in those materials. Wood, drywall, insulation, and floorboards are all porous materials that easily absorb water. After being wet for so long, they will begin to swell and warp. Do not overlook warping and have it checked for water damage if you notice it.
Dampness, Humidity, or Leaking pipes
Unusually dampness, humidity, or leaking pipes are all tall tale signs of water damage. If you feel like anything is out of the ordinary as far as temperature or humidity level in your basement, you should check for leaks or other signs of water damage, then consider getting basement waterproofing services right away.
How Long Does it Take for Water to Damage the Foundation?
Water damage can occur within a few days of severe flooding or gradually over time due to hydrostatic pressure and leaks. If you see cracks in your foundation or damp spots in your basement or crawl space, you should have any issues addressed and repaired immediately. It’s better to have any warning signs of damage inspected and repaired right away since this is usually cheaper than extensive repairs or foundation wall replacement.
Is it Okay for a Foundation to Get Wet?
If your foundation gets wet occasionally due to rainfall or snowfall, it’s not a big deal. However, frequent and continuous exposure to water can cause your foundation to sink or settle. Flooding can cause the soil under your foundation to erode, resulting in uneven settlement. Hydrostatic pressure around your foundation walls can cause them to crack and bow. If you notice that water frequently pools around the walls of your home, your foundation may be experiencing damage gradually.
Contact Professional Waterproofing Experts
If you notice any of these signs, or suspect water damage in your basement, our waterproofing experts are here to help. We will help you determine not only where the water is coming from, but also what solution is best for a long-term fix. It is important to address water damage issues on time as there are dangers to not waterproofing on time, and overall waterproofing can have multiple benefits to your home. American Eagle Professional Services the best in the business at installing basement waterproofing systems that can stop water seepage from and source and protect your basement from damage.
