The Connection Between Water Damage and Foundation Damage

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO of Waxahachie / Midlothian helps homeowners avoid foundation damage from a water intrusion.

SERVPRO of Waxahachie / Midlothian urges homeowners to be aware that water damage can compromise the foundation of a home. Homeowners are advised to periodically inspect the perimeter of the house for signs of water intrusion around the foundation, in the basement, and in the crawl space. The structural integrity of the foundation potentially impacts the entire home. As a water or moisture intrusion deteriorates the foundation, more severe water damage can occur. What was a moldy, musty smell last week could escalate into a flooded crawl space, damaged ductwork, a flooded basement, and a mold infestation.

In the aftermath of a sudden water damage disaster, life is filled with stress and worry. The damage restoration technicians at SERVPRO of Waxahachie / Midlothian live and work in the Midlothian, TX, community. When a neighbor’s home suffers water damage, the SERVPRO professionals quickly restore the damaged property.

Foundation water damage is usually the result of processes at work over time. Sometimes a single event such as a flood can cause catastrophic failure. Sturdy, durable concrete foundations may remain structurally sound for a century or more and may not need any repairs or modifications. Several factors may undermine the integrity of a foundation. The composition of the soil and bedrock under the foundation, local weather patterns, and the quality of the maintenance are variables affecting foundation water damage.

How natural groundwater can damage a foundation

Whether seasonal or year-long, the geological rise of groundwater exerts continuous upward pressure on a foundation. The natural groundwater may eventually permeate the foundation concrete. The pressure can create foundation cracks that allow seepage into the basement or crawl space. The dynamics of pressure and the presence of moisture will eventually compromise the structural integrity of the foundation.

How water-absorbent soil can damage a foundation

Soil types that efficiently drain water and dry rapidly pose little or no threat to a building’s foundation. On the other hand, clay soils retain moisture during rainy seasons and expand. The water-logged clay soil exerts lateral pressure against foundation walls. The rhythmic expanding and contracting of the ground can cause fractures in the foundation. If left unchecked, the damage to the foundation may result in a home shifting off of its foundation. This “heaving” causes severe structural issues that may lead to a massive water intrusion and severe water damage.

How plumbing leaks can damage a foundation and cause water damage

A ruptured or leaky water or sewage line within or below the foundation accelerates structural deterioration, including fissures, cracks, and fractures. The foundation damage caused by a plumbing leak resembles damage caused by the natural rising of the water table from time to time. A constant intrusion of water from a chronic plumbing leak leads to a rapid progression of damage.

How floodwaters can damage the foundation

Localized floods caused by severe thunderstorms and overtaxed drainage systems can cause serious damage to the foundation of a home or business. Water flowing at ten miles per hour generates a force equivalent to winds in excess of 250 miles per hour. Floodwater can dislodge a house from its foundation in minutes. Floodwaters are rapidly absorbed into the ground around and underneath the foundation, so the foundation is quickly undermined. Pilings shift and break. If the stress from the water continues, the foundation can shift, leading to the collapse of the structure.

It is never welcome news to hear that a home’s most fundamental structure may be compromised in any way. However, the homeowner must know the facts about the situation and take corrective actions as soon as possible to prevent the situation from worsening.

Dealing with water damage to the foundation

First, decrease the moisture content of the soil around the foundation. Make sure gutters are clear and free-flowing. Downspouts should be connected and carry the water at least six to ten feet or more away from the foundation. Landscape grading should slope away from the foundation at one inch per foot for at least six to ten feet. Water should be prevented from pooling near the foundation. The installation of an underground exterior drain tile may be needed in severe cases of high soil moisture content.

Second, make the basement waterproof. If the foundation has already sustained damage, such as cracks in the wall or floor, proactive steps may need to be taken to seal the cracks. In some situations, an exterior waterproofing membrane may be needed.

Third, remove any water that makes its way near the foundation or inside the basement or crawl space. A sump pump system with a backup feature can effectively prevent rising groundwater from further damaging the foundation.

When water damage does happen in the basement or crawl space, take immediate action to remove the water. Flooring, furniture, upholstery, baseboards, and walls must be dried out, cleaned, and restored. Delay on the part of the homeowner can lead to advanced secondary water damage. A mold infestation is quite likely to occur if standing water and moisture are not removed or mitigated.

SERVPRO of Waxahachie / Midlothian has been serving the area since 2000. They are locally owned and operated and can respond to any disaster in thirty minutes. The water damage restoration experts specialize in residential, commercial, and large-scale disaster cleanup and restoration.

For more information about water damage restoration in Midlothian, TX, contact the office by phone at (972) 935-0827 or email acarey@SERVPRO10932.com