Here at Barrier Waterproofing, we educate folks that foundation damage in a home can not only impact safety and structure, but also greatly reduce the value of the home, sometimes 15% or more! With that being said, it's valuable to know how foundation problems arise and key factors to look for in early detection. So, what are the main variables that cause foundation damage? Number one: The movement, shifting and settling of the soil underneath your home is a prime suspect in foundation damage. Some areas in the United States contain soil that expands when moist, more-so than other soils, resulting in the foundation of the home being moved or shifted. This causes cracks, which results in humidity and moisture to enter into the home and the foundation itself to be compromised. Number two: Water leaks under the slab can cause the slab to deteriorate. Allow us to explain; slab foundations keep water pipes and sewer lines contained. Moist areas in the interior floors and an increase in water bill will cue homeowners to a problem, although the slab leak usually goes unnoticed until it is too late. Number three: Improper drainage can be the result of water pooling after a rain whilst forming a neat little swamp near the home's foundation. Damp, leaky basements are also an indicator of improper drainage, which can occur because of damaged gutters or improper grading of the land surrounding the home. Number four: The roots of large trees can cause foundation problems because as the roots grow through the soil underneath the home, the intruding roots can put pressure on water pipes and basement foundations under the slab. The can also cause soil to contract away from the home due to moisture leeching. If you are curious as to whether your home has foundation problems or not, see if you can spot one of the common identifiers listed below on your property:

• Moisture is the big culprit for causing numerous problems, so check your basement and crawlspace periodically- with big indicators being mold, sagging, musty smells, cracks, and uneven floors.
• Bugs are going to be drawn to moist places, so look out for them!
• Not only are sagging, warped floors a nuisance, but there could be more than what meets the eye, along with bowing walls.
• Crooked doors might develop, a cracked chimney, if you have one. Your chimney might tilt and can be fixed with piling to add reinforcement.
• Last but not least, stale water under the bridge, oops, we mean water under your HOUSE!

Hopefully this answers your questions about what could be causing your foundation damage, or how to detect if you have foundation damage. If you need help fixing your foundation damage, and are located in the Middle Tennessee area, give Barrier Waterproofing call today at (615) 257-1060 | (931) 536-1168.