The Most Common Causes of Foundation Damage

If you're planning to buy a home or you have recently moved into a home, you'll need to know the most common causes of foundation damage so you can prevent it. The most common causes of foundation damage are tree roots, improper soil preparation and compaction, improper drainage, and hydrostatic pressure.

Soil movement

Soil movement can be a big problem for homes, and is one of the most common reasons for foundation damages. It can cause cracks in walls and foundations, and doors that stick. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should have your foundation inspected by a civil engineer.

When the foundation settles, it can destroy the structure's value. There are various factors that can contribute to this type of damage, including expansive soils, poor site drainage, and plumbing leaks.

A plumbing leak can cause sudden changes in the moisture content of the soil beneath a house. The water can then penetrate the gaps, causing foundation problems that require professional basement waterproofing.

Foundation settlement can also occur if a home is built on fill dirt. In these cases, the fill dirt may be improperly compacted around the foundation. This will lead to consolidation.

Improper drainage

Poor drainage is one of the leading causes of foundation failure. This can cause serious damage to your home, including leaks, cracks, and uneven floors. You can protect your home from water damage by installing a drainage system that drains away from your home.

Proper drainage around your home is necessary for the safety and well-being of your family. It is also important to keep your soil in good condition to prevent problems from developing.

In addition, proper drainage prevents oversaturated soil from expanding. The expansion of the soil can cause the foundation to settle and sink. A settled foundation can shift, leaving your walls exposed to excess strain.

Soil that expands can also cause cracks to develop in the walls of your house. Cracks can develop in the exterior brick or the interior walls of your basement. If you notice a lot of hairline cracks in your house, you may have an issue with your foundation.

Poor soil preparation and compaction

Poor soil preparation and compaction are among the most common causes of foundation problems. This type of problem can lead to shifting or cracks in the walls, doors and windows, as well as other structural issues.

Soil is a porous material that absorbs and releases water. It must be compacted before construction, as too much moisture can cause the soil to lose its stability and become unstable.

There are three different types of soil. These include clay, cohesive and organic. Each of these has different maximum densities and moisture levels. While the first two are suitable for compaction, the last is not.

Compaction works by pushing air and water out. In some cases, this can result in a crack in the cladding, tile or sheetrock.

Hydrostatic pressure

Hydrostatic pressure is a force created when water accumulates in soil underneath a foundation. When the water freezes and thoughs, it pushes and pulls on the walls and can cause a variety of issues.

The foundation of a home is the most important part of the structure, and it needs to be protected from hydrostatic pressure. If it's not, it can weaken the structural integrity of your house.

Water problems, drainage issues and soil saturation can all lead to foundation problems - even during cold winter months. When these conditions aren't dealt with, they can cause the walls of your home to crack.

There are a few things you can do to prevent hydrostatic pressure from damaging your property. First, you need to take proactive measures such as ensuring your gutters are in good condition and installing a functional drainage system.

Tree roots

Tree roots may not be the first thing you think of when it comes to foundation damage, but they can be a huge issue. In addition to the damage they can do, tree roots can cause secondary issues that can endanger the safety and comfort of your home.

The most common type of foundation problems involving tree roots are those caused by ash trees, oaks, and poplars. However, there are many other types of trees that can cause foundation issues. If you are concerned about the health of your house, contact a contractor who specializes in repairing structural problems caused by tree roots.

Tree roots are often found at a couple feet below the surface of the soil. They grow downward to circumvent any obstructions that may hinder their growth. As a result, they can raise the foundation up or cause the foundation to crack.