The Hidden Danger Lurking in Massachusetts and Connecticut Homes: Crumbling Foundations—and How We Can Help
What You Need to Know and How to Protect Your Property
Discovering a crack in your foundation is often no cause for alarm—it may be a minor issue or even a normal occurrence. However, at the other extreme are irreparable foundation problems caused by crumbling concrete, a devastating issue that has recently affected numerous towns across Massachusetts. Let’s dive deeper into this problem, its causes, and what you can do to safeguard your home.
The Crumbling Foundation Crisis: A Brief History
At Attack A Crack, we’ve seen this issue before. Between 2015 and 2018, Connecticut faced a similar crisis linked to a quarry in Willington, CT. The culprit? Pyrrhotite, an iron sulfide mineral. This mineral, when exposed to oxygen and water, breaks down into sulfuric acid and secondary minerals, causing concrete to crack, expand, and deteriorate.
Fast forward to today, and the same problem has emerged in Massachusetts, beginning in the central region between Worcester and Springfield. Over time, the affected area has grown to include 40+ towns, including Boston suburbs, leaving homeowners grappling with irreparable damage.
Why This Problem Is So Catastrophic
Once pyrrhotite-induced damage begins, there’s no way to reverse it. Affected foundations are beyond repair, leaving homeowners with only one solution: replacing the foundation entirely. This process—lifting the home and rebuilding the foundation—can cost $150,000 to $250,000 or more.
To make matters worse, the diminished property value often prevents homeowners from accessing lower-interest loans for these repairs, compounding the financial burden.
Warning Signs to Watch For
If you own property in Massachusetts or Connecticut, be vigilant for these early indicators of crumbling foundations:
Horizontal or web-like cracks in the concrete
Rust-colored stains or white powder on the surface
Visible flaking, bowing, or crumbling
Damage visible on the home’s exterior or under basement drywall
Identifying these signs early is critical to minimizing the impact on your home and finances.
How Attack A Crack Can Help
Although we don’t handle house lifting or full foundation replacements, Attack A Crack specializes in diagnosing crumbling foundation issues. If you suspect pyrrhotite may be affecting your property, our foundation experts can provide a thorough assessment for free, in just minutes when you text us photos of your concern.
If we identify crumbling concrete, we’ll connect you with trusted partners who can guide you through the repair or replacement process. Our goal is to provide clarity and resources so you can make informed decisions about your property.
Get the Answers You Need
If you’re seeing cracks, flaking, bowing, or other signs of damage, don’t wait. Contact Attack A Crack for a professional evaluation:
Massachusetts: (617) 668-1677
Connecticut: (860) 573-8760
We’ll assess your foundation’s integrity and determine whether it poses a risk to your home, family, or business. At Attack A Crack, we’re committed to providing the expertise and resources you need to address any foundation concerns with confidence.
