Foundation
The foundation of a home provides structural support and stability, transferring the weight of the building evenly to the ground. Foundations are typically constructed using poured concrete, concrete blocks, or specialized materials depending on soil conditions and building requirements. A properly built and well-maintained foundation is critical to the long-term integrity of the home.
Warrantability
Alberta New Home Warranty Standards:
- 10-Year Structural Warranty: The Alberta New Home Warranty Program covers major structural components, including the foundation, for up to 10 years. This coverage includes issues such as structural failures that compromise the home’s safety or use.
- 5-Year Envelope Warranty: The Program covers cracks in the foundation that allow water to permeate the envelope of the home for up to 5 years.
Builder’s Warranty:
- Builders typically provide a one-year warranty for defects related to materials and workmanship that impact the performance of the foundation, including minor cracks or leaks.
- Coverage may not include issues caused by poor maintenance or natural settlement.
Manufacturer’s Warranty:
- Foundations usually do not come with specific manufacturer warranties, as they are constructed on-site versus being prefabricated. However, components like waterproofing membranes may have their own warranties (e.g., 5-10 years).
Maintenance
Preventative Maintenance Tasks:
- Grading and Drainage: Ensure proper sloping around the home to direct water away from the foundation.
- Waterproofing: Regularly inspect and maintain foundation waterproofing systems, such as drainage tiles and membranes.
- Crack Monitoring: Check for visible cracks in the walls, floors, or foundation itself and measure their width to monitor progression.
- Control Water Accumulation: Keep gutters and downspouts clean, ensuring they direct water at least 6 feet away from the foundation.
- Vegetation: Avoid planting trees or shrubs with invasive root systems close to the foundation.
Professional Servicing:
Hire a licensed professional to seal significant cracks or perform specialized inspections if signs of structural issues occur.
Common Issues, Warrantability, and Repair Solutions
1. Cracks in Foundation Walls
Warrantability:
- 1-Year Builder Warranty: Non-structural cracks (e.g., hairline cracks) may be covered.
- 10-Year Structural Warranty: Covered under the Alberta New Home Warranty for up to 10 years if cracks are structural or impair the intended use of the home.
Repair Solution:
- If Within Warranty Period: Contact serviceQ to evaluate the issue and determine if it qualifies for warranty repairs.
- If Outside Warranty: Reach out to a certified trade specializing in foundation repair to seal the cracks and assess the underlying cause.
2. Hairline Cracks (Cosmetic Only)
Warrantability:
- Builder’s Warranty: Not covered unless the cracks widen over time or lead to further damage.
Repair Solution:
- If Within Warranty Period: Contact serviceQ to advise.
- If Outside Warranty: No repair required, apply a concrete crack filler if desired.
3. Foundation Leaks (Water Ingress)
Warrantability:
- 1-Year Builder Warranty: Leaks resulting from poor construction may be covered.
- 5-Year Envelope Warranty: Water ingress through foundation cracks may be covered by ANHWP’s envelope warranty.
Repair Solution:
- If Within Warranty Period: Contact serviceQ to evaluate the issue and determine if it qualifies for warranty repairs.
- If Outside Warranty: Reach out to a certified trade specializing in foundation repair to seal the cracks and assess the underlying cause.
4. Foundation Settling (Uneven Floors or Walls)
Warrantability:
- 10-Year Structural Warranty: Covered under the Alberta New Home Warranty for up to 10 years if settlement causes structural concerns.
Repair Solution:
- If Within Warranty Period: Notify serviceQ to investigate and address settlement issues covered under warranty.
- If Outside Warranty: Consult a certified trade specializing in foundation repair to perform lifting or stabilization techniques like mudjacking or pier installation.
5. Bowing or Buckling Foundation Walls
Warrantability:
- 10-Year Structural Warranty: Covered under the Alberta New Home Warranty for up to 10 years, this is considered a major structural defect.
Repair Solution:
- If Within Warranty Period: Contact serviceQ to report the issue for repair under warranty terms.
- If Outside Warranty: Hire a certified trade to reinforce the foundation walls using carbon fiber straps, wall anchors, or other stabilization methods.
6. Frost Heave or Ground Movement
Warrantability:
- 1-Year Builder’s Warranty: Damage caused by frost heave may be covered under the builder’s warranty for 1 year, especially if related to construction defects.
- 10-Year Structural Warranty: Structural impacts fall under the Alberta New Home Warranty’s 10-year coverage.
Repair Solution:
- If Within Warranty Period: Reach out to ServiceQ for professional assessment and repair.
- If Outside Warranty: Contact a certified trade experienced in stabilizing foundations affected by frost heave or soil movement.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal, technical, or warranty advice and Qualico and its affiliated companies make no warranty whatsoever with respect to such information, including (but not limited to) for fitness for a particular purpose. Product warranties are governed by manufacturers’ terms and conditions, and proper maintenance is required to uphold functionality and coverage. Qualico and its affiliated companies are not liable for any injury (personal or otherwise), harm, personal damage, or property damage caused by (i) the use or misuse of, (ii) neglect related to, or (iii) unforeseen events related to, the information provided above. For specific warranty and maintenance details, please refer to the manufacturer’s documentation.
