6 Reasons for Concrete Damage in Your Basement

Basement Concrete Damage

Do you have unsightly or potentially dangerous concrete damage in your lower level? It’s not uncommon, but some forms are more serious than others. When evaluating your home’s foundation from the inside, be aware of these six possible causes of concrete damage in your basement.

Slow Moisture Leaks

Any type of moisture is detrimental to your home, but especially when it is slowly seeping or leaking into your basement. The leak might originate from the seal surrounding your basement windows. It could be infiltrating cracks in the foundation walls or floor. If you have egress windows, the water may be coming from improper drainage in your window well. Moisture will not only lead to crumbling, it could also cause mold growth, which can compromise your family’s health.

Settlement or Shrinkage

It is virtually impossible to create a concrete structure that does not go through a certain amount of settlement and shrinkage during and after the curing period. Minor cracks due to foundation settling or shrinkage due to water evaporation is nothing to be concerned about to a small degree. When the cracks widen and stretch deep into the foundation wall, it becomes a cause for worry.

Structural Problems

If the home builder did not allow the foundation enough time to cure before beginning construction, it may have severe structural issues. This type of concrete damage may also be the result of not fully compacting the soil before pouring the foundation.

Plumbing Problems

A burst pipe or sewage backflow can damage concrete in your basement. It is vital to have your plumbing examined on a regular basis and any breakdowns in the systems repaired as soon as possible.

Natural Disasters

A flash flood from a rainstorm or melting snow can cause flooding in your lower level. Even if the water does not directly flow into your basement, the added moisture in the soil can put pressure on the external foundation walls. If the pressure is excessive, it could lead to the concrete cracking or buckling, especially in brick foundations. Stress cracks should be repaired as soon as possible to minimize further structural damage.

Extreme Temperatures

The freeze/thaw cycle has a powerful effect on the condition of concrete. Concrete absorbs moisture, which freezes when the temperature drops. Since water expands when frozen, the moisture in the concrete creates internal pressure, which can cause fractures and cracks. After the temperature rises, the ice melts and the concrete returns to its original size. Over time, repeated cycles can result in concrete damage in your basement.

Call Lift-Up Concrete when you are looking for affordable, professional repairs for concrete damage in your basement.