If you’re looking for a new home, it’s essential to do your due diligence and check the foundation. Foundation repair dealbreakers can vary depending on your budget, but there are some common issues that you should watch out for. One of the most obvious signs that there is a problem with the foundation is if the basement is wet or damp. Another red flag is if the foundation has sunken more than a few inches – this can be a sign of structural damage. You should also look out for evidence of pests or infestation in the basement, as well as severe cracks or crumbling in the foundation. At Zablocki Waterproofing Milwaukee, we help home buyers, owners, and sellers with foundation repair in Milwaukee and surrounding communities. We understand that the prospect of foundation repair can be daunting, but we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more!
Potential Dealbreaker #1: Basement Moisture
If you notice that the basement of a home you’re looking at is wet or damp, this might be a foundation repair dealbreaker. A wet basement is usually caused by cracks or holes in the basement walls, which would need to be repaired ASAP to avoid further damage. Basement moisture can lead to a number of problems, including mold and mildew growth, wood rot, and foundation damage. If you’re considering buying a home with a wet basement, be sure to factor in the cost of foundation repair and basement waterproofing into your budget.
Potential Dealbreaker #2: Severely Sunken Foundation
If the foundation has sunken more than a few inches, this may present another foundation repair dealbreaker. Sunken foundations can be caused by a number of factors, including soil erosion, poor drainage, and excessive moisture. Sometimes, you can tell a foundation is sunken just by looking at a house – does it look crooked? Other ways to tell a foundation has sunken or become uneven include doors and windows that are difficult to open or close, cracks in the walls or foundation, and gaps between the foundation and framing. A sunken foundation can be fixed, but you should always consult a professional before purchasing a home with a sunken foundation so you can factor the cost of repair into your budget.
Potential Dealbreaker #3: Pests or Infestation in the Basement
If you notice signs of animal or insect infestation in the basement, this is another sign of issues with a home’s foundation. Pests and critters need an entrance, and cracked basement walls or holes around basement windows are the perfect doorways. Once inside, pests can cause additional damage to your foundation, and they can also spread disease. Signs of pest infestation in a basement include droppings, nesting materials, and damage to foundation walls or framing. If you see any of these signs, you have some thinking to do before you purchase the home. You’ll need to factor in both the cost of pest control and the cost of foundation repair.
Potential Dealbreaker #4: Severely Cracked or Crumbling Foundation
A foundation that is cracked or crumbling should be noticeable, but a home with a finished basement may hide these issues. When looking around a potential home, open closets and check all areas of the basement to see if you can find any exposed basement walls. This will give you an indication of any issues present in the basement. Cracks in your foundation can allow water to enter your home, which can lead to mold and mildew growth. A crumbling foundation can also be a sign of structural damage. These types of repairs can range in cost, so it’s best to consult a professional foundation repair expert as you build your budget.
Zablocki Waterproofing: Your Foundation Repair Partner
We know that sometimes you just fall in love with a house, despite any issues it may be experiencing. Luckily, with the right foundation repair partner, any of the above problems can be fixed. Zablocki Waterproofing has been helping home buyers, owners, and sellers with foundation repair in Milwaukee for decades. We’re here to help you make your dream home a reality. Contact us today to learn more!
