Water damage to a foundation is typically an evolving process. But, it can occasionally manifest as a sudden event, too. Concrete foundations are generally sturdy and long-lasting—many existing homes built in the 1920s still have intact “original equipment” foundations with no modifications or repairs. However, the geology of the site where the house was constructed, the natural local weather patterns and even the attention to maintenance provided by its owners are variables that influence foundation water damage and the speed at which it may occur.
Here are some examples of slow and fast foundation water damage:
- Natural groundwater. Rising ground water beneath a foundation may be a feature of local geology that occurs seasonally or year-round. Over a period of years, continuous upward pressure from rising water may permeate foundation concrete. It may generate foundation cracks, trigger leakage into the basement and generally degrade the structural integrity of the foundation.
- Absorbent soil. Certain soil types drain water efficiently and dry rapidly. However, other types, particularly expansive soil or clay, retain a large volume of water during rainy seasons and expand, exerting lateral pressure against foundation walls. As time passes, this on/off water damage may crack the foundation and eventually even make the house shift or “heave,” causing severe structural issues.
- Plumbing leaks. A leaky or ruptured plumbing line within or below the foundation provides a 24/7 source of water likely to fast-track foundation damage. While water damage such as foundation deterioration and cracking that results from ongoing plumbing leaks is similar to that due to natural causes, the rate of progression is accelerated and the effects will be more rapidly evident.
- Flooding. Outdoor floodwater moving just 10 mph exert as much stressful force on the house structure including the foundation as winds in excess of 250 mph. In just a matter of minutes, flooding may separate the house structure from the foundation. Floodwater also rapidly penetrates beneath the ground surface, undermining the foundation, moving and breaking foundation pilings and causing the entire foundation to shift.
