AboutRichard Taylor, AIA Expertise Ask me about all aspects of house, remodeling. , and room addition design and construction. Ask me about historic homes, renovation, and restoration. Ask me about materials and techniques, and about how you can get the best value for your design and construction dollar. Ask me how you can make your home a very special place. I can't, however, answer specific structural engineering questions in this forum - that's something you'll need on-site observation for.
Experience I own a five-person residential architectural firm, and have been designing custom homes, remodelings, and room additions across the country since 1983. Check us out at Richard Taylor Architects and RTA Plans. I have written and been published extensively on the subject of residential architecture. .
Organizations American Institute of Architects, City of Dublin Architectural Review Board, Past Editor of SPLASH (a CAD program), Past Editor of Open Directory Project, Boy Scouts of America
Education/Credentials Bachelor of Environmental Design (Architecture) Miami University 1983
For more about home design, check out my blog at Richard Taylor Architects Looking for great Luxury Home House Plans? Try ours at RTA Plans.
Question Hi
We are about to close our new Townhouse. We had a Home inspector to inspect the house. He found a small puddle in the garage. In his report he has said-under 1)FLOOR SLAB "standing water in the garage. Any drains, such as discharging lines should be directed away from the foundation so that they do not contribute to water infiltration, erosion or consequential damage from backup".
2) under FOUNDATION-" There may be a crack in the garage foundation that is allowing water to enter the slab area. Chronic water leakage/seepage promote the growth of mold and mildew.
He says it is a serious problem. Can this be fixed by the builder. What kind of assurance do I need to get from the builder to have peace of mind?
Please give your expert opinion.
Thanks
Hemalatha Elango.
Answer Hemalatha - thanks for your question!
This should be easily fixable by your builder. Most water problems in foundations are caused by blocked or disconnected downspouts.
Make sure all downspouts and drains are properly connected and unblocked; make sure the grade slopes AWAY from the foundation; and have the foundation and slab checked for cracks. Once this is done, have your home inspector back out to verify it.
I hope you'll soon be enjoying your new home!
Hope this helps,
Richard Taylor, AIA
www.rtastudio.com
www.rtaplans.com
