Concrete is a porous material, which means it is vulnerable to the elements and pooling water. Your home’s gutter system protects the foundation by diverting water away from the house. However, clogged or faulty gutters may not function properly, allowing water to pool around the foundation and cause extensive damage. Here's a guide to help you better understand how gutter problems can lead to a cracked foundation and how you can prevent further problems.

What Can Happen to the Foundation if the Gutters Don't Work?

If the gutter is unable to channel water away from the house—for example, if the gutter becomes clogged—the water might start to pool and erode the soil surrounding the foundation. This can expose the foundation to even more water, weakening the concrete until it cracks. When the water freezes during winter, it can expand inside these cracks and open them up further. This cycle will repeat, causing serious damage to the structural integrity of your home. 

Additionally, as more water accumulates on the ground, the soil becomes excessively moist and unstable, causing your foundation and house to sink and perhaps collapse. Luckily, a professional can repair the cracked foundation to restore your home's safety.

How Do You Deal with Foundation Cracks Caused by Bad Gutters?

To ensure a hassle-free crack and leak repair, it's best to have a professional do it for you. They already have the skills, equipment, and experience to inspect your foundation for any signs of cracks or damage and effectively seal them back up. 

To prevent the issue from developing again, it's important to repair or replace broken or faulty gutters to ensure they can efficiently direct water away from your home's foundation. It can also be helpful to install gutter guards, which help keep out leaves and debris that can clog your gutters and cause them to overflow. 

If you suspect your home has developed a cracked foundation from water damage, give Reliable Crack Injection a call today. Run by Randy Bientz, this waterproofing company uses a foam injection that effectively seals up cracks of up to 12 inches thick on your walls, ceilings, and floors. Homeowners throughout Hamilton County, OH, have trusted Randy’s services for over a decade. You can message him online to book a leak repair appointment, or call (513) 368-4366 for other inquiries.