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External pressure on the basement wall can cause it to bow inward. Soil, heavy with water saturation, is commonly the main culprit. The soil exerts immense pressure on the wall, causing it to fail, at least partially. This is known as hydrostatic pressure—these situations can occur after rainfall or simply due to regular groundwater presence and may be temporary or more permanent.  

Crawl spaces are the more desirable option overall because they provide additional space for storage and utilities, but they are more expensive to install and maintain. Slab foundations are considered a better option in warmer climates where the depth of the frost line isn’t an issue because they’re more affordable, but crawl spaces are better in areas where the frost line is deep or where flooding can be an issue.

Preventative measures, such as maintaining drainage systems, installing sump pumps, inspecting roofs regularly, and crafting comprehensive emergency plans, can help mitigate future risks.

Some disadvantages of crawl spaces are mostly regarding the air itself—moisture build-up and poor ventilation, which can cause problems both in the house and underneath it, even damaging the foundation itself. Crawl spaces are difficult to access and often invite unwanted pests during the hot summer months and the cold winter ones. These hard-to-seal spaces are also susceptible to water damage during periods of heavy rain or melting snow.