You’ve found the home you were looking to invest in. The only problem is that it has basement wall cracks. Cracks in the basement are enough to scare any potential real estate investor away. However, they shouldn’t be. Not all cracks in the foundation are a sign of a serious foundation problem. In addition, repairing a foundation isn’t always expensive. You may in fact find that the problem is actually still minor and can be repaired inexpensively.
If you’re thinking of investing in a home with basement wall cracks, the following are some things to look for to help inform your decision.
Signs of structural damage
Inspect the home for signs of structural damage. This could include sticking doors or windows, doors and windows not fitting into the door frame, cracks in the ceiling as well as in openings, and sagging of the floors. If you notice any of these signs, the issue with the foundation probably runs deeper than the cracks on the basement walls. The home could need extensive foundation repair.
Signs of moisture
Another thing to look for when you notice basement wall cracks in a property that you want to purchase is moisture or water. While you may not come across a puddle of water, there are other signs of moisture problems or damage. These include efflorescence, mildew or mold infestations, blistering of paint, water stains on floors or walls, and bowing or bulging of basement walls. These are all signs that the home’s foundation is in need of waterproofing.
Check for pests
Basement wall cracks aren’t just a concern because of water seepage or foundation damage. They can also be a concern because of pests. Wall cracks allow moisture into the basement creating the perfect environment for pests to live in. Wall cracks can also be the opening through which pests find their way into the home. Pests can carry diseases, be a nuisance, or even damage property including the structure of your home.
Test any mechanicals in the basement
Many homes locate their mechanicals in the basement. These include heaters, dryers, washers, air conditioning units, and furnaces. These can be damaged by flooding as well as high humidity. For example, moisture can cause rusting of vital metal components. It is therefore important to test the components in the basement. This will not only tell you if these components work but also whether there is a moisture problem in the basement.
Check drainage systems around the home
Basement wall cracks often occur as a result of high hydrostatic pressure against the basement walls. Damaged or clogged downspouts and gutters can contribute to this problem. It is therefore important to check these drainage systems to ensure that they are not only in good condition but also drain far away from the foundation.
Be sure to have a foundation repair expert inspect the home if you have decided to go through with making the purchase.
