Background
A homeowner in Charlotte, NC, contacted us with concerns about their home’s foundation after noticing several troubling signs, such as cracks in the basement walls, uneven floors, and water pooling in the crawl space after heavy rains. These issues not only affected the integrity of their home but also posed potential safety risks.
The Problem Upon inspection, it became clear that the primary culprit was poor drainage. Water was saturating the soil surrounding the foundation, leading to a range of issues:
Hydrostatic Pressure – The saturated soil created immense pressure against the basement walls, causing them to bow and crack.
Soil Erosion – Excess water was washing away soil, leading to uneven settling of the foundation.
Water Infiltration – Pooled water was seeping into the crawl space, creating a damp environment prone to mold growth.
Our Approach To address these issues, we developed a comprehensive plan to improve the home’s drainage system and stabilize the foundation:
Gutter and Downspout Upgrades The existing gutters were clogged and ineffective. We recommended installing new, larger gutters and extending the downspouts to redirect water at least six feet away from the foundation.
Regrading the Landscape
The ground surrounding the home was sloping toward the foundation. We regraded the yard to ensure water would flow away from the house, reducing pooling and hydrostatic pressure.
Installing a French Drain System A French drain was installed along the perimeter of the home to collect and channel excess water away from the foundation. This simple yet effective solution significantly reduced water accumulation in problem areas.
Adding a Sump Pump A sump pump was placed in the crawl space to actively remove any water that might accumulate during heavy rains.
The Results Within weeks of completing these improvements, the homeowner noticed a significant difference:
No more pooling water around the foundation, even after heavy rains.
The basement walls and floors stabilized, preventing further structural damage.
The crawl space remained dry, reducing the risk of mold and improving indoor air quality.
Protecting a Home's Foundation Through Improved Drainage
Key Takeaways This case highlights the critical role proper drainage plays in protecting a home’s foundation. By addressing issues proactively, the homeowner avoided potentially costly foundation repairs and extended the life of their property.
What You Can Do If you notice cracks, water stains, or pooling around your home, it’s essential to act quickly. Effective drainage solutions, such as upgraded gutters, French drains, and proper grading, can safeguard your home and provide long-term peace of mind.
At Homeworthy Engineering, we specialize in diagnosing and resolving foundation and drainage issues. Contact us today to discuss your concerns and explore tailored solutions for your home.
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