Trusted Tips and Resources

Trusted Tips & Resources

Trusted Saskatoon Contractors K & S Contracting Share Common Foundation Issues

K & S Contracting specializes in foundation repair for homeowners across Saskatchewan. In addition, they also offer general contracting services to Saskatoon and the surrounding area. In their latest Trusted Saskatoon tip, K & S Contracting, Trusted Saskatoon General Contractors, and foundation specialists share common foundation issues.

COMMON FOUNDATION ISSUES

Saskatchewan, like many other parts of Canada, has a large number of older homes with a wide variety of structural issues. These issues can vary in severity and complexity, but they can all pose serious safety and health risks to homeowners and their families. Here are some of the most common foundation structural issues found in older homes in Saskatchewan.



CRACKS IN THE FOUNDATION WALLS:

This is one of the most common issues found in older homes. Over time, the foundation walls can crack due to the natural settlement of the soil, changes in temperature, or water damage. These cracks can allow water to seep into the basement, causing water damage and mold growth. In severe cases, the walls can even collapse.

UNEVEN SETTLING:

Uneven settling occurs when the soil beneath the foundation shifts or settles at different rates. This can cause the foundation to become uneven, resulting in sloping or sagging floors, cracked walls, and other structural issues.

POOR DRAINAGE:

Poor drainage can lead to water damage and mold growth in the basement. This can be caused by several factors, including a lack of gutters or downspouts, improper grading around the foundation, and clogged or damaged drain tiles.

ROTTING OR DAMAGED WOOD:

In some homes, the foundation may be made of wood, which can rot or become damaged over time. This can cause the foundation to weaken and become unstable, which can lead to other structural issues.

POOR VENTILATION:

Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining a healthy living environment. In older homes, however, the foundation may not be properly ventilated, which can lead to the buildup of moisture and mold growth.

INSUFFICIENT INSULATION:

Insufficient insulation can cause several issues, including heat loss, drafts, and higher energy bills. In older homes, the insulation may be outdated or insufficient, which can lead to a range of problems.

If you own an older home in Saskatchewan, it’s important to be aware of these common foundation structural issues. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and address these issues before they become serious problems. It’s also a good idea to consult with Steve from K & S Contracting a professional foundation repair contractor if you suspect that your home may have structural issues. With proper care and maintenance, your older home can continue to provide a safe and comfortable living environment for many years to come.


Contact Steve with K & S Contracting today to ensure that the repair is done correctly and to prevent future issues.

Is The Foundation Of Your Home Sinking? Article By Trusted Saskatoon Contractors K & S Contracting

K & S Contracting specializes in foundation repair for homeowners across Saskatchewan. In addition, they also offer general contracting services to Saskatoon and the surrounding area. In their latest Trusted Saskatoon tip, K & S Contracting, Trusted Saskatoon General Contractors, and foundation specialists, ask: is the foundation of your home sinking?

IS THE FOUNDATION OF YOUR HOME SINKING?

The foundation is the most important part of a house as it provides the necessary support to the entire structure. Any damage or issue with the foundation can lead to serious structural problems and safety hazards. One of the most common foundation problems is sinking, which can cause cracks in walls, windows, doors, and other structural components. Here are some signs that may indicate that the foundation of your home is sinking.


Cracks in walls and floors: One of the most obvious signs of a sinking foundation is cracks in walls and floors. Look for cracks that are wider than 1/4 inch, especially if they are diagonal or appear near windows and doors. Horizontal cracks may also indicate that the foundation is settling unevenly.

Uneven floors: If you notice that your floors are sloping or sagging, it may be a sign that the foundation is sinking on one side. Check if doors and windows are sticking or not closing properly, as this may also indicate a problem with the foundation.

Water pooling around the foundation: Water pooling around the foundation can cause soil erosion and weaken the foundation over time. If you notice water pooling around the foundation after rain or irrigation, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible.

Chimney leaning: Not many homes in Saskatoon have a chimney anymore, but if you have one of those amazing vintage homes and it does have a chimney, than a leaning chimney is a clear sign that the foundation is sinking on one side. If you notice that your chimney is leaning, it is important to have it inspected by K & S Contracting.

Cracks in exterior walls: If you notice cracks in the exterior walls of your home, it may be a sign of a sinking foundation. Look for cracks that are wider at the top than at the bottom, as this may indicate that the foundation is sinking on one side.

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to have your foundation inspected by K & S Contracting as soon as possible. Ignoring foundation problems can lead to serious safety hazards and costly repairs down the line. K & S Contracting can identify the cause of the problem and recommend the best course of action to fix it. Don’t wait until it’s too late – address foundation issues as soon as possible to protect your home and family. Contact Steve with K & S Contracting today. 


Trusted Saskatoon Contractors K & S Contracting Share 5 Signs Your Basement is Leaking

K & S Contracting specializes in foundation repair for homeowners across Saskatchewan. In addition, they also offer general contracting services to Saskatoon and the surrounding area. In their latest Trusted Saskatoon tip, K & S Contracting, Trusted Saskatoon General Contractors, and foundation specialists, share 5 signs your basement is leaking.

5 SIGNS YOUR BASEMENT IS LEAKING

Basements are an integral part of any home, especially in Saskatoon, and it’s important to keep them dry and free from leaks. A leaky basement can not only cause damage to your home but can also create a health hazard by promoting mould growth. Here are five signs that your basement is leaky and in need of repair.



WATER STAINS

One of the most obvious signs of a leaky basement is the appearance of water stains on the walls or floor. These stains are usually brown or yellow in colour and can indicate that water is seeping into your basement. In addition, you may also notice discolouration or efflorescence, a powdery substance that forms on the surface of the wall due to water evaporation.


MUSTY ODOUR

A musty odour in your basement can also indicate the presence of water. This odour is caused by mould and mildew growing in damp areas, which can be a sign of a leaky basement. If you notice a musty odour in your basement, it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible, as mould can be harmful to your health.


PEELING PAINT OR WALLPAPER

If you notice that paint or wallpaper in your basement is peeling or blistering, it could be due to exposure to moisture. This can be a sign of a leak, as the water is causing the adhesive to break down and causing the paint or wallpaper to peel away from the wall.


CRACK IN THE WALLS OR FLOOR

Another sign of a leaky basement is the appearance of cracks in the walls or floor. These cracks can be a result of settling or shifting, or they can indicate that water is entering your basement through a weakness in the foundation. Inspecting these cracks by a K & S Contracting professional is important to determine the cause and the best course of action. As this could be 1 of the 5 signs your basement is leaking.


HIGH HUMIDITY LEVELS

If you notice that the humidity levels in your basement are consistently high, it can be a sign of a leak. High humidity levels can cause condensation on walls and floors, which can promote mould growth and other health hazards.

In conclusion, if you notice any of these 5 signs in your basement, it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage and to maintain the overall health and safety of your home. You need to consult with K & S Contracting owner, Steve Ostapiw to assess the situation and recommend the best course of action. By taking care of your basement, you can ensure that it remains a safe, dry, and healthy living space for years to come.


Trusted Saskatoon Contractors K & S Contracting Discuss Concrete Foundation Cracks

K & S Contracting specializes in foundation repair for homeowners across Saskatchewan. In addition, they also offer general contracting services to Saskatoon and the surrounding area. In their latest Trusted Saskatoon tip, K & S Contracting, Trusted Saskatoon General Contractors, and foundation specialists, discuss concrete foundation cracks, and what they mean.


Concreate Foundation Cracks, What Do They Mean?

When you see a crack in your concrete slab or wall, generally your first assumption is something has been done wrong–but that’s not always the case. Concrete cracks are very common, some are even inevitable, but let’s review them:


BASEMENT FLOOR CRACKS

Floor cracks in concrete slabs are relatively common and usually not worrisome on a structural level. They should be repaired to prevent common issues like moisture, insects, and damage from seeping through. When floor cracks leak, it is usually caused by hydrostatic pressure or a high water table. Therefore, sealing the crack will redirect those issues elsewhere.

VERTICAL AND DIAGONAL FOUNDATION CRACKS

Usually, a diagonal or vertical crack in the foundation wall is the result of settling in the concrete foundation and is quite common in new construction, especially if your home is built on a hill or your home has rapidly deteriorating soil conditions because of drought or heavy rainfalls. They usually run vertically or diagonally, are often located in the middle section of walls and are less than 1/8 in wide.

Frequently you will find vertical cracks in block foundations. If the crack is located closer to a corner and is wider than 1/8 in, it is probably not due to shrinkage but indicates a more serious foundation issue. It is recommended you call K & S Contracting to get it inspected as it may be a cause for concern.

HORIZONTAL FOUNDATION CRACKS

Horizontal cracks that run across your foundation and/or walls are some of the most serious types your home can suffer. They indicate a severe issue with your foundation’s integrity that must be looked into.

Most horizontal cracks are caused by excessive water pressure from outside. In addition to other sources of pressure such as soil movement, it has the potential to impact your foundation’s integrity. They tend to expand and ruin the slab itself, possibly even causing it to collapse.

STAIR STEP CRACKS

Stair step cracks are among the most common foundation cracks. These cracks are a clear sign of a problematic foundation. Typically, stair step cracks in a block foundation are a result of bowing walls. These cracks will be found toward the corners of the foundation, and are often found with a horizontal crack. In a block foundation, stair step cracks may also be found on the outside of the home. Stair step cracks always require further investigation in order to keep your home safe and supported.

Curious about the myths and facts of foundation repairs, check out the following post from Steve. 

Questions or concerns, about your concrete foundation cracks, and what they mean, please contact K & S Contracting. 

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