A Solid Start: How To Repair Common Foundation Problems
Posted on: 8 August 2023
A home's foundation, much like its occupants, requires stability and strength. When cracks appear or moisture seeps in, your sanctuary's backbone may be crying out for help. This article peels back the layers of your home, delving beneath the surface to address the symptoms and causes of these common issues.
Foundation Settling
Settling, or the process in which a structure gradually sinks into the ground is a natural occurrence that all homes experience to some degree. It happens due to the compression of the soil underneath the foundation over time, and while it's completely normal, excessive settling can lead to serious structural issues. Signs of a problematic settling process include wide, horizontal cracks in your walls, difficulty opening and closing doors and windows, and uneven floors. Addressing the issue of excessive settling involves a couple of repair methods.
Underpinning is one common solution, which involves extending the foundation's depth or breadth so it rests on a more stable layer of soil or distributes its load across a greater area. The process typically involves excavating sections of the foundation, installing concrete or steel piers that reach down to stable soil levels, and then lifting the home onto these new supports.
However, consider that underpinning should be a last resort and only necessary when the foundation is significantly compromised or when major changes in the soil conditions have occurred.
A less invasive method to address minor settling issues is through slab jacking or mud jacking, which involves pumping a cementitious mixture or polyurethane foam underneath the slab to lift it back to its original level. Both underpinning and slab jacking require a professional to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.
Soil Swelling and Shrinking
The soil underneath your foundation constantly changes due to environmental factors, such as fluctuations in humidity levels or periods of drought. When the ground soaks up too much moisture, it expands, pushing against the home's walls and causing damage. Conversely, in dry conditions, the soil shrinks away from a structure, leaving gaps between the foundation and ground that decrease its overall stability.
In such cases, the application of waterproofing techniques is recommended. This can be achieved through various methods, such as applying a membrane on the exterior or interior surfaces, installing gutters to divert rainwater away from your walls, or adding soil amendments to reduce water absorption.
Staying on top of common foundation issues will protect the integrity of your home's structure and ensure its continued value. Through regular maintenance and timely repairs, you can rest assured that your foundation and home will remain solid as a rock.
Contact a local home foundation repair to learn more.
Share