The Importance of a Solid Foundation
Most homes in the northern climates have a stone or concrete foundation and a basement. A significant part of a general home inspection includes the structural components of the house, including the foundation and basement. Like the roof, it can be costly when repairs occur to basements and foundations.
Foundation
A house typically needs a solid foundation on which to remain erect. A home’s foundation is just such a structural necessity that its proper function and overall condition cannot be overlooked. During a home inspection, the foundation is visually examined for signs of defect. A stone or concrete foundation may exhibit signs of cracking, but these could be fairly indicative of normal stresses.
Cracks and Defects
There are many different structural forces at work on a house and over time some materials respond accordingly. Stone and concrete foundations can exhibit types of cracks that may only be in keeping with normal environmental stresses. There are a host of different types of cracks and an inspector may recommend a structural engineer examine certain types more carefully. However, there are often other clues that help to indicate serious foundation defects.
During a pre-purchase home inspection, home buyers should heed the advice of a home inspector if he is recommending further specialized evaluation. Repairing a foundation can be even more costly than replacing a roof.
Wet Basements
A damp or wet basement, particularly in older homes and in certain environments is not a big surprise. A home seller is obligated in most instances to disclose a wet basement. There are degrees of “wet.” A basement that floods each time it rains can eliminate use of the space for nearly any purpose and poses a potential safety hazard if there are electrical systems present.
Not only does a wet basement limit habitable space, but it also is the perfect environment for mold and mildew.
Basement Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew thrive in environments where there is moisture, humidity, inadequate ventilation and little light. A basement is often a perfect host. Mold and mildew can be a problem if the condition is expansive or if someone in the home is sensitive to the airborne spores. For those individuals with respiratory ailments and allergies, mold and mildew spores can aggravate their medical conditions and possibly affect their long-term health.
First Choice Inspectors, LLC located in Chicago Illinois carefully inspects your home’s foundation and basement. We provide a full-service house inspection, commercial inspection, mold inspection and deliver a comprehensive, concise final report. Our property inspectors serve Chicago and the surrounding area. Click here to request a quote or schedule an inspection today.