Recognizing foundation problems

Abalon has dealt with every type of foundation issue since 1970. The typical questions asked are seepage and movement issues. We can confidently say that both go hand in hand. Seepage issues will cause movement and movement can result in seepage.

Foundation seepage

Seepage or basement leaks, occur when water infiltrates into your basement through pores, cracks, voids in your foundation walls and floors. The major contributor to seepage is not having proper drainage and/or waterproofing. This needs to be remedied immediately to save your basement from deterioration as well as prevent or minimize mould, fungus and mildew. Contact Abalon now if you are experiencing any of these issues.

Signs of foundation seepage:

water entering the basement through the walls or floor
general dampness or a musk odor in the basement
tiles lifting from the floor
white powder (efflorescence) on the walls or floors
warped paneling or dry rot
mildew or fungus

Our services will correct all of the problems that your foundation may be encountering. Weeping tile (drainage system) is an integral part of a properly waterproofed foundation. Did you know that a large portion of homes built in Canada do not have proper drainage systems?

Weeping tile is a perforated plastic pipe which is placed on the side of the footing around the entire exterior perimeter of the house at the bottom of the foundation wall. In older homes this pipe might be made of clay or concrete material. The purpose of weeping tile is to collect excess water draining down the exterior foundation wall. This prevents water pressure building up against the foundation wall and diverts the water before it is absorbed by soil causing the soil to swell. After the water enters the weeping tile it drains to a sump pit.

Weeping tile is affected by foundation shifting, basement floor heaving, sewer backup as well as shrinking and swelling clay. Your Abalon representative will be able to advise you on any repair or maintenance required.

Foundation movement

Movement or settlement can occur when soil conditions change due to swelling, shrinking and settling fill. This is considered a structural problem and should only be handled by a qualified experienced contractor. Contact Abalon now.

Signs of foundation movement:

cracks in walls and ceilings
windows or doors sticking
windows and doors that are out of square
cracked of uneven floors
cracks in brick or stucco
foundation wall bowing or buckling
fireplace/chimney leaning away from the house
cracks in the walls or floors

Settlement usually requires the use of underpinning systems to remedy the situation. Abalon has a variety of underpinning services that can be used to professionally repair your home. Contact Abalon today.

Preventative action

Swelling and shrinking soil can be a major problem. Homeowners can take some steps to minimize changes in moisture content:

make sure eavestroughs and down spouts are in good working order
extend down spouts away from the house at lease 3 feet and preferably to splash pads
slope soil away from house
water soil around house at least twice a week in dry years
water trees especially in dry years
care when moving trees; as it effects drainage
do not flood flowerbeds
make sure window well drainage system is working properly
if you have an underground sprinkler system, or in ground pool, underground valves and joints can leak, check frequently