Foundation Issues
Foundation Cracks
1. Vertical Cracks – These cracks typically indicate settling or normal concrete shrinkage. However, if they are wider than 1/4 inch or accompanied by other signs of structural issues, they may indicate more serious problems.
2. Horizontal Cracks – Horizontal cracks are often a sign of excessive lateral pressure on the foundation, which could be caused by soil expansion, hydrostatic pressure, or poor drainage. These cracks can compromise the integrity of the foundation and require immediate attention
Poured Cement v.s CMU Block Foundation
1. Poured Cement – Poured concrete foundations are commonly used in residential and commercial construction. They provide excellent strength and durability when properly reinforced. However, they can still be susceptible to cracking and water intrusion if not properly maintained.
2. CMU Block Foundation – CMU block foundations consist of concrete blocks stacked on top of each other and held together with mortar. While generally less expensive than poured concrete, CMU block foundations may be more prone to water intrusion through the mortar joints and cracks in the blocks.
Water Intrusion Issues
- Water Seeping Through the Block – Water can seep through the porous material of CMU blocks if they are not properly sealed or waterproofed. This can lead to moisture problems in basements or crawl spaces and contribute to mold growth and deterioration of building materials.
- Water Seeping at the Cove– The cove joint, where the floor slab meets the wall, is a common entry point for water intrusion in basements. If not properly sealed or if there’s excessive hydrostatic pressure from the soil, water can seep through this joint and cause flooding or moisture problems.
- Hydrostatic Pressure – Hydrostatic pressure occurs when water in the soil surrounding the foundation exerts pressure against the walls. This pressure can force water into the foundation through cracks, gaps, or porous materials, leading to basement flooding, foundation instability, and structural damage.
