Foundation problem?
Question:My gf bought a house in the fall last year. Now spring came and she notice that there's water in the basement she said the first time she saw it she panic. Now everytime it rain she see water coming from the wall. She said now she notice too there's crack on the main floor wall by the main entrance. Is this really a very serious problem? The house is 100 yrs. old. Houses in the area where she live is pretty close to each other. Is there any other solution that you guys can advice like jacking the house or something.
Answers:
A small crack is certainly not a big deal. I would be surprised with the age of the house if there are not several cracks. If the crack gets bigger then it may be a problem.
The water is a problem that should be addressed to prevent future problems. Make sure that gutters and downspouts are in good shape and that the spouts are connected to pipes to carry the water away from the house, preferably to a storm drain. If that is in order, additional drainage may be called for. Not a minor thing, but not terrible.
Yeah, there are foundation repair specialists around, I was in it for a few years. You and your gf should be able to find a co. to correct the problems. Yes, it is serious and VERY expensive to repair, but I spare you details. My best to you.
Should call some local foundation and drainage contractor to give her a free inspection and estimate. Foundation problem are typically caused by drainage problem.
Truthfully she still has time to sue the previous owners if they didn't tell her ahead of time before buying the house about the water leakage. I have been through it myself. It takes a lot of work but it is worth it considering that she has a lot of fixes to be done as well which will cost A LOT OF MONEY! As far as the fixes go the best way to to go about finding a fix is to go through 3 or 4 contractors who will bid on the job. You also want to look at the contractors previous work if possible and check them through the Better Business Bureau before you choose one.
GOOD LUCK and I am sorry that you have do deal with this problem.
I own a foundation and drainge company. Email me josh@greatdrains.com. I can go over some pointers with you.
did you get a surveyor in before buying the house, you should get a few builders in to give quotes.
Assuming this is not a finished basement and not very large either installing a sump pump will probably get rid of her problem.
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