SERVPRO of Wilson County : Can a storm damage my foundation?

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

In order to last for generations, your property needs to maintain a solid foundation. Most modern properties are built on concrete foundations which can withstand a myriad of physical stressors. But, if the foundation is under incredible stress from storm or flood damage, it’s liable to crack over time. Read more about what leads foundations to get damaged during storms and what you can do to sidestep permanent foundational damage in the future following a flood.

How Do Floods Lead to Foundation Damage?

Whether the flood event includes long periods of standing water or rapid moving waters over a short time, flooding can do severe water damage to your foundation. Flooding penetrates deep below your foundation, causing shifts and upheavals that can compromise its strength and structural soundness. The tremendous amount of weight that water carries with it is what you should be on the lookout for. Even if you let just a few inches of water linger over your foundation for an extended period of time, the weight might be too much for your foundation to shoulder.

Preventative Measures to Take

The key is to prevent water from pooling anywhere near your property. You can take these precautions:

• Inspect your downspouts and ensure they point away from the home. If your home lacks a gutter system altogether, install one before the next incoming storm.
• Install a sump pump or foundation vent. This enables water to flow through the home rather than pool around it.
• Apply sealants and coatings on your walls, windows, and doorways. This prevents floodwater from entering the home through cracks in these components.
• Grade your lawn so that the ground slopes away from your home. If the slope is toward the home or the ground is completely flat, water can pool around the house.
• Keep mulch away from the home. Mulch can absorb water and cause the foundation, walls, and siding to rot.

Calling the Pros When Things Get Out of Control

The aftermath of a flood can deal immense damage to a foundation if the problem isn’t addressed and the water is left to linger. If you find that your foundation is sloping in a direction that it wasn’t before a storm or has cracks that used to be solid, it’s best to call SERVPRO Wilson County at (615) 449-5000 for a consultation. Our team has the specialized training and expertise to restore your home back to its pre-storm condition thanks to our emphasis on scientific drying techniques, progress monitoring and documentation.