Concerns with a 1950s era slab foundation
tedbeef
| Posted in General Discussion on
My wife and I are considering purchasing a 2-story 1600 sq. foot home that is built on a 1950s era slab foundation. I have some concerns that the slab — most likely not containing a vapor barrier — has wicked moisture through foundation up into the walls. Unfortunately, I won’t be able to create any sort of contingency that lets me open up the walls. Competitive market and all.
1) Is the concern that the walls maybe soaking up moisture via the slab?
2) Are there any ways that I could sniff this out without opening the walls?
3) Are there any other common concerns with a 1950s era slab? I haven’t seen many.
Thanks for reading
Replies
Hi there, I don't really have enough information to give you specific answers. In general, any slab, new or old can have issues with moisture etc. Are you asking the question because you noticing something in particular? A musty smell or visual signs of dampness? Gutters, grading, soil conditions, water table, etc. all affect the moisture content of the foundation.
Hey! Yes, apologies for the vague question. I'm working with limited info. I haven't noticed any issues inside the house. However, the siding (cedar shingles) has notable termite damage.
Understood that new slab foundations can have issues. I was assuming old foundations — without a vapor barrier — would almost certainly have issues. But perhaps that assumption is wrong.