While walking around your house, or going into the basement, you notice a hole in your foundation’s concrete. Commonly observable after the winter season, concrete deterioration is a frequent occurrence. How can you determine if this type of defect is serious? Read our tips and find out how to take action if there is a problem in your foundation.
What causes holes in concrete?
The first reason to take into account is the natural wear of the concrete. It is not uncommon for this solid but crumbly material to lose its uniformity with time. This is especially the case for buildings that were built at a time when the quality of the concrete was lower than today.
Another possibility lies in the immediate environment of your home: is there a gutter nearby? Have you noticed that the soil is inclined in places? There are many external factors that can weaken your foundations and accelerate their deterioration. Changes in climate, such as freezing and thawing in winter, or heavy rains, can also lead to faster erosion.
Should repairs be made?
Even though a hole or crack in your concrete can seem harmless, it might be hiding another problem. Allowing the conditions to worsen can expose your foundation to many hazards, ranging from insect infestation to mold growth; not to mention the possibilities of widening a crack that at first seemed minimal and might lead to more extensive work. Often, a foundation inspection is needed to properly diagnose the situation. Compare the situation to a dental cavity: once you notice it, do you wait to suffer before seeing your dentist? The health of your foundations works the same: don’t wait for a disaster before you act.
The right way to preserve your foundations
The best way to avoid risk is to seek out a company that specializes in foundation crack repairs as soon as you observe a hole or malformation in your concrete. This way, an expert can thoroughly inspect the foundations of your home. Moreover, he can explain the cause of the problem and the risks incurred if no repair is made; you will then have the opportunity to discuss the most suitable solution for you.
With a presence throughout Quebec, as well as outside the province, Foundation Crack Expert will be happy to respond to your request. We also support you in your financing, working with insurers and financial institutions. Contact us today.
