When it comes to the maintenance of your living space, drainage problems are easy to overlook. They will probably not show up till the damage is done, and you have a big issue at hand. Timely detection and repair, on the other hand, can keep your property in great shape and save you thousands of dollars. Being aware of the potential problems and understanding the smallest warning signs can help you stay one step ahead of the issues.
Here are the subtle warning signs you should be vigilant about to detect drainage problems at the earliest.
Basement water stains
It is easy to miss out on water stains in your basement because you seldom go there. But be sure to check the area periodically as water stains down there could indicate a serious issue. Check the location of the stains to decide if the problem is due to surface or underground water. The ones located higher up to show that a gutter may be overflowing and aren’t a reason to worry. Conversely, a stain extending in a line around the basement could point to a bigger concern and require expensive repairs.
Foundation cracks
Another sign to consider carefully is cracking in the home’s foundation. While they may be caused by the structure settling over time, you need to be extra watchful about bigger cracks. If you notice them, keep a close eye and check back to see if they grow over time. If the cracks seem to get bigger, it is time to call a structural engineer and go ahead with foundation repair.
Overflowing gutters
Overflowing gutters is another subtle symptom to watch out for. It could happen when debris or leaves block the flow of water and need to be removed. Other warning signs include vertical streaks of dirt visible on the outside of the gutters, peeling off paint in vertical strips, and mud on the siding. It is vital to pay attention to overflowing rain gutters as they can cause structural damage if left unchecked. Fortunately, you can address the issue easily by calling a professional to unclog the gutters and restore the normal flow.
Downspouts that dump
Rainwater isn’t great for your home’s structural integrity. If the downspouts end up dumping an excessive quantity of water close to the foundation, it may reach into the basement and ruin the flooring and furniture. Have a good look at the downspouts and add see if they are dumping water around the foundation. You can address the problem by adding gutter extensions to carry the water away from the building.
Flaking and deposits on the walls
The appearance of flaking and deposits on the walls is also something to worry about. The white or gray crust on the walls in the basement indicates efflorescence, which is the result of evaporating water leaving behind mineral deposits. The signs require better scrutiny because they may or may not be an indication of a big issue. If the condition is only superficial, you can scrape off the crust. A deeper issue points towards a drainage problem and requires professional repair.
Drainage problems shouldn’t be taken lightly because they can affect the strength and integrity of your home. It is important to get professional help at the first signs of a problem rather than wait for things to get worse.
