Inspection of the foundation of your house
It is becoming increasingly clear to everyone that a house foundation does not last forever. It should even be checked every year. It goes without saying that an even more rigorous inspection should be carried out before purchasing a new house.
What is the life expectancy of a house foundation?
It is generally recognized in Quebec case law that a house foundation exceeding 85 to 100 years old could require major work, including complete replacement. 85-100 years, today, gives a year of construction of your house from 1916 to 1931. There are many foundations of this age in Montreal.
What symptoms will ring alarm bells during inspection?
Foundation Settling
• From the outside, observe the level of the house and its components.
• Inside, check the level of the floors, door frames, and window frames. A difference in level of more than 3″ will sound the alarm.
Foundation Cracks
• From the outside of the house, check the above-ground portion of the foundation, as well as the sheathing covering the walls. Look for cracks there.
• Inside, in an unfinished basement, check the foundation. Throughout the house, look for cracks in the drywall or plaster of the walls and ceilings.
Efflorescence and Water Infiltration on the Foundation
Efflorescence is the appearance of whitish, soluble salts on the inside of the house’s foundation. This is moisture from the outside pushing inward. The presence of excessive humidity or water infiltration can be observed directly.
Alternatively, their presence can be deduced by seeing a warped basement floor, mold, or rings at the bottom of your basement walls. High humidity levels in the basement are also a sign that further investigation is necessary.
If I discover a problem, can it be considered a hidden defect?
Yes. Under certain conditions, and after confirmation by a lawyer, you have a good chance of being compensated following the appropriate procedure.
Is it expensive to repair or replace a foundation?
Foundation work can vary considerably in cost, and most involve significant amounts of money. Here are some examples of work and their potential costs:
Minor repairs (urethane injection into a crack)
Installation of a waterproofing membrane
Installation of a French drain
Piling
Foundation replacement and house lifting
Reconstruction of interior finishes in the basement
Repair of exterior siding
Floor leveling
With the exception of a simple injection, costs can range from $10,000 to over $100,000. It’s a serious investment that requires careful consideration.
Tell us about your project
Every project is a story. A meeting between your vision and our expertise. In Montreal and the surrounding area, we bring to life renovations that combine aesthetics, functionality, and durability.