In homes with basements and crawl spaces, we always need to be concerned with water flow from the roof. An overflowing gutter will dump water next to the foundation and create a water leak into the crawl space or basement. In homes with concrete slabs, water next to the foundation can cause movement and cracking, which are bad things for a slab.
So, don;t let the gutters overflow. Three can drop needles, seeds and leaves that can make a real mess in the gutters. Establish a routine for cleaning the gutters that addresses the needs in your yard.
Also, make sure downspout extensions dump water away from the foundation. They should extend at least 3 feet and preferable 6 feet to an area where the water will naturally drain away from your home.
One of the best inspection techniques is to observe your home during a hard rain. Gutter should not overflow, and all surface water should be directed away from your home. Water pooled next to a foundation is almost always the cause of a water leak into a basement and can result in a structural damage to wall and slabs. Maintenance is easy and simple- make it a priority.
Chuck LeCraw
The Cornerstone Inspection Group, Inc.
www.CornerstoneInspectionGroup.com
770-436-2667
Good article. I find salt spots a good way to find leaks in foundations and crawl spaces. Since the salt spots are from evaporating water you know it’s from water leaking in and not enough ventilation.