Port Canaveral sustained millions of dollars in damages due to hurricane Matthew, North Carolina faired a bit worse with 1.5 billion worth in damages to homes and businesses across the coast. Flooding is still a problems in those areas, and government officials hope the flood will recede in one more week. It is hard to predict and prepare for catastrophes like this, but for many homeowners our problems are not so significant. Water seeping into the basement of your home doesn’t seem so huge after reading about the people in North Carolina. It doesn’t mean you don’t have to take care of that problem, it means the problem doesn’t seem so big after all. If you have problems with the basement or foundation of your home, we will be happy to offer you a hassle free, no obligation consultation to see if we fit your needs. Contact us, we will be happy to talk to you.
Extreme drought causes home foundation cracks across the Valley
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) – The crippling drought in North Alabama isn’t just hurting farmers and drying up water sources, it could also threaten your home. Foundation repair experts say this is the busiest they’ve been, in the company’s 15 year history.
“The last time we saw a drought like this was in ‘07,” says Ben Bayless, the owner of AFS.
From afar, the Drach family’s home looks in pristine condition. “Very frustrating,” says Jesse Drach. “Inside, we have several cracks getting bigger and bigger.”
When you take a closer look, you can see major cracks have formed, both inside and outside.
The owner of AFS, a local foundation repair company, says this happens when the rain stays at bay. “These foundation issues are directly linked to the drought,” says Bayless.
Drought conditions affect foundations because when the soil dries, it actually shrinks, causing the foundation to shift or crack.
Unfortunately for homeowners, there isn’t a lot you can do to prevent these foundation issues from popping up.
Wet basement? Here’s what to do
You might not need a waterproofing contractor. You might need to take a few simpler, cheaper steps instead, according to Consumers’ Checkbook.
CONSUMERS’ CHECKBOOK
Wet basement? Thinking about calling a basement-waterproofing contractor? Stop right there.
Many contractors will propose installation of expensive interior drainage systems — even if you don’t need one — when most moisture problems can be solved through less expensive means. You’re more likely to get good results — and save a lot of money — by exploring other possible solutions and hiring a basement-waterproofing contractor only if absolutely needed. If your home was built within the last few years, check the builder’s warranty for clauses on seepage.
Most basements get wet when rainwater runs toward the walls of houses from roofs, yards and driveways. So your first step is to force it to run away from your home.
