Serious Cracks and Displacement
For some people, it’s the thought of spiders lurking in the dark. Others are unnerved by the clutter or the mechanical components that often reside there. Smart homeowners know that walls that are cracked or buckling are among the scariest things that you can find in a basement because they can be a red flag for foundation problems. Think about it: Your foundation provides vital support for your home. It’s a crucial part of the structure, so if it is compromised, other areas of your home can be affected. If left unattended, foundation trouble will likely get worse and can negatively impact both the value and the livability of your home.
Spotting the Danger
What causes basement walls to crack or buckle? As HouseLogic explains, the culprit is often the soil surrounding your home. When it shrinks, it forces the structure’s foundation to settle or sag. When shifts in the earth cause it to heave, it puts pressure on the foundation. Water can also be a troublemaker, especially in places like Wisconsin where freezing temperatures turn it into ice that expands. While a few small, hairline cracks in the basement wall may not be cause for concern, any noticeable bulges or sizable cracks should be checked out immediately, especially if the cracks are running horizontally or stagger like stairs between the wall’s concrete blocks or are accompanied by signs of water penetration.
Taking Action
Cracking or buckling basement walls may be a homeowner’s nightmare, but they do not mean that your foundation is doomed. In fact, structural problems like foundation troubles actually made the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors’ list of the “10 Most Common House Problems”. Acting quickly will limit the potential for additional damage and likely allow you to tackle the problem with a fix that is easier and more affordable. What should you do if you’re worried about a foundation issue? Don’t ignore it. Don’t wait for a more convenient time. Deal with the problem promptly by calling in a professional who specializes in basement and foundation repair.
Welcome Support
What is the best solution for foundation problems? That depends on your unique situation. One possible fix involves installing steel brace wall reinforcements that provide added support to the existing walls. This halts the movement of the walls, restores the structural integrity of your home and prevents future damage. When installed properly, these steel reinforcements are not a temporary foundation repair. They offer a permanent, time-tested solution that protects both your home and its value.
Are concerns about cracking walls, buckling foundations or other signs of trouble in your Milwaukee home’s basement keeping you up at night? Turn to Accurate Basement Repair. With nearly 20 years of experience, our team of basement and foundation repair experts is ready to put its expertise to work for homeowners in southeastern Wisconsin. Licensed, insured and bonded, we provide warrantied service. We’re armed with extensive training and a fleet of equipment that contains some of the industry’s newest technologies. Call (414) 744-6900 today to request your FREE estimate!
In Southeast Wisconsin, we have the only Nationally Certified Structural Repair Specialist on staff and two Nationally Certified Waterproofing Specialists on staff.
Accurate Basement Repair is a member of the NAWSRC (National Association of Waterproofing and Structural Repair Contractors), NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry), the Basement Health Association, the BBB (Better Business Bureau), WAHI (Wisconsin Association of Home Inspectors), BIASEW (Building Inspectors Association of South Eastern Wisconsin) and Angie’s List.
We are proud to say that we have an A+ rating with the BBB and we won two Super Service Awards from Angie’s List in 2010 – one for foundation repair and the other for basement waterproofing. Our professional and knowledgeable staff will educate you on various self-help procedures to save money on your foundation and waterproofing needs. We are NOT a franchise. Our dedicated team works year round! We use high quality and well maintained equipment which will provide the lowest impact to your landscaping. Our team of trustworthy and competent staff attends regular training, seminars and/or trade shows, so they are able stay up-to-date on everything that is happening in the foundation restoration and waterproofing industry. We provide outstanding customer service throughout the entire repair process – from estimate to completion. And last, but not least… Accurate Basement Repair is the #1 referred foundation repair company by professional engineers, basement consultants, realtors, municipal building inspectors, home inspectors, lenders, property management companies and most importantly, our past customers.
