Your home is likely your most significant investment, and when concerns about its foundation arise, it’s natural to seek answers. Often, the first place homeowners turn to is Google. While the internet can be a helpful resource, it’s also rife with misinformation. Myths about foundation repair abound, and believing them can lead to costly mistakes.
Let’s bust the top five common myths about foundation repair to ensure your home remains safe and secure.
Myth #1: Overwatering Can Damage the Foundation
This common watering foundation myth suggests that watering plants or flowers near your foundation will lead to cracking and other issues. While it’s true that soil expansion due to water absorption can pose problems, routine watering of plants is unlikely to have a significant impact. Plants typically absorb most of the water, and the scale of soil expansion in such cases isn’t large enough to cause foundational damage.
However, there’s a valid concern when water pools around your foundation. Clogged gutters, downspouts, plumbing leaks, or inadequate drainage can lead to soil saturation. Over time, this water can weaken the soil, causing it to expand and push against the foundation or erode, leading to sinking.
Key Takeaway: Ensure proper drainage around your home by keeping gutters clean and downspouts functional to avoid pooling water. If you notice water accumulating near your foundation, address the issue immediately to prevent long-term damage.
Myth #2: New Homes Don’t Crack
It’s a common misconception that new homes are immune to foundation issues. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case. Cracks can develop in any home due to soil movement, hydrostatic pressure, or other environmental factors. Even newly constructed homes are susceptible if the foundation’s design or surrounding soil conditions are suboptimal.
Hydrostatic pressure, for instance, occurs when excess water in the soil exerts force against the foundation walls. Over time, this can cause bowing, cracks, and water intrusion. Early signs of trouble include musty smells, dampness, or visible water leaks.
Prevention Tip: Waterproofing your basement or crawl space and ensuring proper grading around your home can help mitigate these issues.
Myth #3: You Can DIY a Foundation Repair
In today’s DIY culture, it’s tempting to tackle foundation repairs yourself to save money. Some even think that foundation repair causes more damage. However, it’s not true and DIY approach often leads to more harm than good. Foundation problems are complex and require specialized tools and expertise to address effectively. Learn more about the pros and cons of DIY versus professional foundation repair here.
For example, patching over cracks with store-bought sealants might seem like a quick fix, but it only masks the symptoms without resolving the underlying cause. Ignoring the root issue can lead to worsening damage and higher repair costs down the line.
Professional Insight: Foundation repairs should always be handled by experienced professionals who can diagnose the issue correctly and implement a lasting solution. Don’t take risks with such a critical aspect of your home’s stability.
Myth #4: Selling a Home with Foundation Repair Is Impossible
Some homeowners worry that foundation repairs will lower their property’s value or make it harder to sell. The truth is quite the opposite. Addressing foundation issues before putting your home on the market can increase its value and appeal to potential buyers.
Repairs come with benefits like extended longevity for the home and transferable warranties that offer peace of mind to the next owner. Buyers appreciate a proactive approach, and a documented history of repairs shows you’ve maintained the property well.
Advice for Sellers: Invest in professional foundation repair and keep detailed records. Work with your real estate agent to highlight the completed repairs as a selling point.
Myth #5: Foundation Repair Is Always Expensive
The cost of foundation repair often depends on the severity of the issue and the method of repair required. While some repairs can indeed be costly, many are affordable and well worth the investment to prevent further damage.
Waiting to address foundation problems usually results in more extensive and expensive repairs. It’s also essential to consider the value of warranties offered by reputable companies. These warranties provide long-term assurance, potentially saving thousands of dollars in future maintenance costs.
Perspective: Think of foundation repair as an investment in your home’s safety and longevity. Addressing issues early can save you significant money in the long run.
Where Do I Start?
If you’re reading this, it’s likely that you’re experiencing concerns about your home’s foundation. Don’t let misinformation or myths about foundation repair prevent you from taking action.
Virginia Foundation Solutions offers free inspections with no obligation. Our team of experts can identify the root causes of your foundation problems and recommend tailored solutions, from waterproofing to structural repairs.
Contact us today to schedule your free inspection and protect your home’s foundation for years to come!