5 Warning Signs of Foundation Water Damage: What To Look For & How To Fix It

Your home’s foundation is built to last. However, various factors such as seasonal changes, soil type, and geologic hazards can all affect its structural integrity.

The biggest concern is foundation water damage, a common problem in many areas throughout Ohio. Whether from flooding or underground water, the risk can’t be ignored. Keeping an eye out for problems and getting an early diagnosis of your foundation can prevent simple issues from turning into costly and disruptive repairs. 

Spotting a wet foundation can be tricky, but don’t worry. We’ll show you the telltale signs of foundation water damage so you can take corrective measures. 

1. Moisture or Dampness 

A home’s foundation is supposed to be clean and dry. When it becomes damp, it can easily become a breeding ground for harmful fungi and bacteria. If you find your foundation walls perpetually damp, chances are water is seeping through. Try to investigate the source of the moisture and resolve the problem quickly. 

You’ll also likely feel the air in your basement or home seem heavy, which indicates high humidity levels. Elevated humidity leads to condensation and a host of other issues, such as mold growth and musty odors.

2. Mold or Mildew

Mold streaks and mildew on your walls are indications of water damage. Both thrive in damp environments. If you spot gray, white, black, or green substances on your walls, chances are mold has taken over.

This growth can pose health risks such as respiratory complications and breathing problems. It can also instigate wood rot and damage structural supports around your home.

Mold has no place in your home. Self-remediation is dangerous, and the possibility of recurrence is high. Mold experts can handle the removal, and basement waterproofing professionals can help you create a dry space to prevent mold from returning or growing in the first place. 

3. Foundation Wall Cracks 

While foundation cracks instigate moisture problems, they can also be a sign of foundation water damage. Water from the exterior of the foundation exerts stress on your foundation walls known as hydrostatic pressure, causing them to crack. Depending on the nature of the cracks, you can expect anything from a minor foundation repair to an extensive repair job. 

4. Wall Discoloration 

Concrete is porous and gets easily discolored when groundwater stays on the surface. The stains come from minerals that form when the water dries in the concrete, which is typical of efflorescence. Staining on your wall, carpet, or wallpaper is an indication that water has seeped through the concrete foundation walls. However, not all stains are due to water. Mold can also leave black or grayish stains on your basement walls. 

5. Pungent or Musty Smells 

Once mold or mildew forms on your foundation walls, it’s going to release a musty or pungent smell that will move up to the living space in your home. Some of the smells could also emanate from decaying wood, pest waste, or water-damaged materials. 

Get Professional Help

While some maintenance may seem easy enough to take on yourself, others – like basement waterproofing and foundation repair – are best left to experienced professionals.

Our team at Ohio Basement Authority has many years of experience with repairing and protecting Ohio homes. We understand that every house is unique and deserves specialized attention and tailored solutions.

These can include: