If you plan to buy a house, you'll want to make sure it's free of issues before signing on the dotted line. When you're walking through the home you're interested in purchasing, pay particular attention to the foundation. Problems could leave you with severe water damage and expensive foundation repairs. To determine whether you should leave the property behind or adjust the offer price, here are five problems you should point out to the inspector for a closer look. 

How Prospective Buyers Should Inspect a Home’s Foundation

1. Cracked Walls

Cracks in the wall can be a tell-tale sign of foundation damage. These cracks indicate shifts in the underlying soil and highlight the risk of potential water damage. Small, vertical cracks may not present danger, but step-shaped or horizontal fissures are a sign of foundation movement.

2. Sticking Doors

When the foundation shifts and settles, the home’s frame may adjust. This adjustment can make it more difficult to open doors on low, ground and basement levels. If you notice that doors stick when you open or close them, call a professional to see if foundation repairs are necessary.

3. Moisture Problems

If moisture is allowed to get through a compromised foundation, it can cause extensive water damage, and contribute to hazardous mold growth. To determine if a property’s foundation has moisture issues, look for mold in the basement, standing water in the crawl space, and condensation along the lower-level windows. You might also notice a musty smell. If the leaks are minor drips, professional waterproofing may be enough to resolve the issue.

4. Bugs

Although pests can find many ways into a home, it’s wise to look for bugs in the basement. Silverfish, ants, centipedes, termites, and roaches may have gotten into the area through exterior wall cracks. Roaches and termites may worsen the structural integrity of wooden pillars connected to your home’s foundation, because they view wood as a food source.

5. Uneven Surfaces

If a basement floor is not level, it’s possible that the soil shifted or moisture problems warped the basement’s surface. These changes may also cause bowed walls. A foundation made of clay is more prone to expand and shift. Ask if an engineer tested the soil for risks because of  the ground's composition.

If your dream home needs foundation repair, you may not have to give up on the property altogether. Serving current and prospective homeowners in the Elizabethtown, KY and surrounding areas, Master Waterproofing offers comprehensive services to improve structural integrity and moisture control. These specialists carefully identify problem areas through an in-depth foundation inspection and provide end-to-end service including waterproofing and restoration. Visit them online to learn more about their services or call (270) 769-3434 to schedule a free on-site estimate.