How big of a foundation crack is serious?
Quick answer A foundation crack around 1/8 inch (3 mm) or wider deserves a closer inspection, especially if it is getting wider, leaking water, or accompanied by bowing/settlement. CMHC guidance specifically flags cracks over 3 mm (1/8″) for repair/assessment. Horizontal, stair-step, or rapidly growing cracks can be serious even if they are narrower, so width alone shouldn’t be […]
Before and After Crawl Space Vapor Barrier
A crawl space can have a big effect on your home. If it stays damp, it can create many problems. You may notice a musty smell, high humidity, or mold. You may also find wet insulation or standing water. A before and after crawl space vapor barrier comparison shows the difference a proper moisture barrier can make. […]
How to Get Rid of Musty Smell in Basement: Find and Fix the Real Cause
A musty smell in your basement is usually a sign that moisture is trapped somewhere. The odor may come from damp walls, mold or mildew, high humidity, water seepage, wet building materials, or poor ventilation. While air fresheners and odor absorbers can temporarily mask the smell, the best way to get rid of it is […]
Waterproofing Older Ontario Homes: A Homeowner’s Guide
If you own an older home in Ontario, basement moisture may be a familiar problem. Heavy rain, melting snow, high groundwater, and Ontario’s freeze-thaw cycles can put constant pressure on an aging foundation. That is why waterproofing older Ontario homes is an important part of protecting your property. The good news is that many basement […]
Why Does a Basement Leak After Heavy Rain?
If your basement stays dry in normal rain but leaks during a big storm, the cause is usually hydrostatic pressure, a foundation crack, poor grading, a clogged eavestrough, a damaged downspout, tired waterproofing, or a struggling sump pump. Heavy rain saturates the soil around your home, and your foundation’s drainage system suddenly has far more […]