COMMON FOUNDATION ISSUES

CRACKED OR BOWED WALLS


Brick wall with a large, jagged crack running vertically through it.

Bowing or cracked walls in Lincoln, NE, often indicate foundation problems, usually caused by hydrostatic pressure from water buildup around the foundation, soil expansion, or poor construction. These issues can lead to structural damage and should be addressed by a professional for proper assessment and repair. 





Causes of Bowing or Cracked Walls:


Hydrostatic Pressure: Excessive water pressure against the foundation can cause it to crack or bow inward, especially in areas with expansive clay soils. 


Soil Expansion and Contraction: Fluctuations in soil moisture can cause it to expand and contract, putting pressure on the foundation. 


Poor Construction: Inadequate or poorly compacted soil, or incorrect sill plate sizing, can contribute to foundation problems. 


Tree Roots: Mature trees can exert pressure on foundations as their roots grow, causing them to bow. 


DEHUMIDIFCATION

Jagged mountain peaks silhouetted against a hazy blue sky, creating layers of depth and texture.

In Lincoln, Nebraska, dehumidification in basements is crucial due to the region's inherent humid climate and its  potential to create moisture issues in basements. 


Basements are particularly susceptible to dampness and mold growth because they are underground and can experience condensation from warm, moist air entering a cooler space. At Foundation Repair of Lincoln we address these issues through proper waterproofing and dehumidification. 


Why Dehumidification is Important in Lincoln Basements:

:High Humidity:  Lincoln, NE experiences naturally high humidity, especially during the summer months, which can lead to excessive moisture accumulating in basements. 


The Stack Effect:  Warm, moist air from outside or upper levels of the house can be drawn into the cooler basement, causing condensation and dampness. 


Mold and Mildew:  High humidity creates an environment where mold and mildew thrive, potentially causing health problems and damaging property. 


Foundation Issues:  Water damage from excess moisture can weaken foundations and lead to cracks or other problems. 


Health Concerns:  Mold and mildew can trigger allergies and respiratory problems. 



Solutions for Dehumidification in Lincoln Basements:



Professional Waterproofing:  At Foundation Repair of Lincoln we offer waterproofing solutions such as the to address water infiltration at the foundation's vulnerable points. 


Crawl Space Encapsulation: If you have a crawl space, sealing it off from the outside can prevent humid air from entering and causing problems. 


Dehumidifiers: We utilize specialized dehumidifiers which are designed for basements and can effectively remove excess moisture. 


Professional Water Damage Restoration: At Foundation Repair of Lincoln, we offer industrial-grade dehumidifiers and other specialized equipment for drying out wet basements after flooding or other water damage. 


Proper Ventilation: While not a stand-alone solution, we ensure adequate ventilation in basement areas which can help alleviate high moisture levels.  Hoever, this is not always sufficient in Lincoln's humid climate. 

EGRESS WINDOWS

A partially open basement window with a metal window well, set in a gray concrete wall and grass.

When considering egress windows in Lincoln, Nebraska, several factors are crucial, including building code compliance, window well design, and proper installation to prevent water damage. Adhering to minimum opening size requirements and ensuring adequate drainage are essential for both safety and preventing potential issues. 


The Key Considerations Include:



Code Compliance:

  • Egress windows in Lincoln, NE must meet specific size and safety requirements. The International Residential Code (IRC) mandates a minimum net clear opening of 5.7 square feet, with a minimum height of 24 inches and a minimum width of 20 inches. 


Window Well Design:

  • The window well must be designed to prevent water accumulation and allow for safe egress. This includes ensuring the well has a minimum area of 9 square feet and a minimum width and length of 36 inches. 


Drainage:

  • Proper drainage is critical to prevent water from entering the basement. The well should be equipped with a drain that connects to the home's drainage system or be designed to allow water to escape effectively. 


Installation:

  • Professional installation is highly recommended due to the complexity of cutting through concrete or brick foundations. Improper installation can lead to structural damage, water leakage, and safety hazards. 


Cost:

  • Egress window installations can range from $2,500 to $5,000 per window, including labor costs for cutting the opening and installing the window and well, according to The Great Egress Company and HomeAdvisor. 


Safety:

  • In addition to meeting code requirements, ensure the window well is designed for safe egress, especially for children and the elderly. This may include installing a ladder if the well is deeper than 44 inches. 


Property Value:

  • Egress windows can increase the value of your home by making the basement more usable and appealing to potential buyers, according to Bright Idea Egress


Property Taxes:

  • Installing an egress window may increase your property taxes, so it's wise to factor that into your decision-making, according to 

PLAN AND DETAILS


Prepare Home Remodeling Ideas

Specify Materials

Paint Rooms

Install Interior Door

Install Light Switch

$600 - $1150

$250 - $350

$2.50 - $3.50 Per Square Feet

$150 - $350 Per Door

$100

WHY CHOOSE US


With over 15 years experience and a real focus on customer satisfaction, you can rely on us for your next project. We provide a professional renovation and installation services with a real focus on customer satisfaction.

Financial Responsibility to Our Clients Superior Quality and Craftsmanship Quality and Value to the Projects We Deliver Highest Standards in Cost Control On Time and on Budget Real Focus on Customer Satisfaction

POPULAR QUESTIONS


  • Why does a renovation project cost so much?

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