How Rain Water Can Affect Your Home’s Foundation

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

Is your foundation safe from settling?

The Portland area sees a lot of precipitation, and when we get a call from a homeowner after major rainfall, we often see damaged foundations. It’s more than just a cosmetic issue or risks associated with mold. Water can affect the structural integrity of your home’s foundation. Here are a few ways how water can wreak havoc on your foundation.

Saturated Soil: Water can accumulate around your home and cause the surrounding soil to loosen, making it easier for water to penetrate into you home. One way to help combat this problem in your home is to make sure your gutters and downspouts are clean and in proper working order.

Erosion of Soil: Water that is not diverted away from your home may cause the supporting soil to erode away. This can cause your home to settle. This problem may take years to surface. Some subtle signs to look for are cracks in the drywall or plaster, leaning chimneys and uneven floors. In the aftermath of a flood, a thorough inspection by a qualified technician should be performed to insure that your home has not started to settle.

Buildup of Hydrostatic Pressure: Hydrostatic pressure occurs when the soil surrounding your foundation becomes oversaturated. This excessive pressure can cause the walls of your foundation to press inward and cause bowing and cracking. This can happen over time or suddenly after a heavy rain storm.

Generally speaking, homeowners rarely think about their home’s foundation until it has become noticeably damaged. By that time, it may already be too late and result in costly repairs that may have been diverted with some attention to detail and preventative maintenance. If you suspect that you home’s foundation has become compromised, call the experts at SERVPRO of NW Portland today to discuss your options. 503-283-3658