Are you concerned about the possibility of your home's foundation cracking? You're not alone! In Texas, interior and exterior cracks are a common foundation issue for homeowners in hot and dry summers.
A strong and stable house foundation is crucial to the structural integrity of any building. Neglecting foundation issues can lead to costly repairs down the line. That's why it's essential to identify and address any problems early on and treat them with an effective and long-lasting foundation repair solution.
If you notice any signs of movement, take action before the problem worsens.
Read the blog for a compiled list of tips to help you maintain a healthy foundation year-round. Expert guidance and foundation repair solutions ensure that your home is built on a strong and secure foundation, giving you peace of mind for years to come.
What Potentially Causes Foundation Cracking?
Foundation cracking is a common problem that many homeowners face. It can be caused by a phenomenon called differential settlement, which occurs when a foundation settles into the soil unevenly. This stresses the building and can cause structural problems, including cracking. But what causes differential settlement? Find out in the below section.
Causes of Differential Settlement
Various things can cause differential settlement, but the most common is soil movement under the foundation, usually caused by water. In other words, water - either too much or too little - is the culprit behind most foundation problems, including cracking. Here's what happens:
When Your House is Built on Expansive Soil
Certain soil types, such as those with a lot of clay, are expansive. What happens when they take in water? They expand. And what happens when they let go of water? They contract. This seasonal swelling and shrinking create movement in the soil under the foundation, which can lead to structural damage and cracking.
When Your House is Built on Erosion-Prone Soil
Soil that's prone to erosion can also cause movement under the foundation as the soil washes away and voids form. The foundation then sinks into the voids, causing structural damage and cracking.
Other Possible Causes of Differential Settlement in Foundation
To ensure a strong foundation for your home, it's important to understand the causes of differential settlement. While various factors can contribute to this issue, some of the most common include:
Inadequate Soil Compaction Before Construction
Constructing a house on soil that hasn't been properly packed down can lead to a big problem or even a catastrophe. The structure's weight will press down on the soil, leading to uneven settlement and potential foundation problems.
Changes in Weather are Observed
Weather changes can wreak havoc on your foundation if your house is built on expansive soil. During the dry season, the soil may shrink. And when it is the wet season, it can swell as it absorbs water. This movement can cause serious damage to your foundation over time.
Heavy Excavation Near The Home's Foundation
Digging too close to your Tennessee home's foundation can cause the soil to become unstable, leading to cracking and other issues. Imagine it as a chair on your lawn - if you dig too close to the chair, it might end up falling into the hole.
Natural Disasters Making Their Way
Earthquakes and other natural disasters can cause serious foundation damage, including cracking and shifting.
To avoid these issues, working with a qualified contractor who understands the importance of proper soil preparation and foundation construction is important. By addressing these issues with foundation repair Tennessee upfront, you can ensure your home's strong and stable foundation.
Preventing Foundation Cracks: Tips and Tricks
One of the most standard problems homeowners face is foundation cracks. Various factors can cause these cracks, but water is the most common culprit. Fortunately, you can take many crucial steps to prevent foundation cracks and keep your home safe and secure.
Regrading Your Yard is Paramount
It's important to control the groundwater around your home's foundation. This can be achieved by re-grading your yard to slope away from the foundation. If the yard slopes towards the foundation, water will drain towards your home, pool around the foundation, and cause trouble.
Clean Gutters Improves The Drainage System
Cleaning your gutters regularly is crucial. If your gutters are clogged, water could flow over the side of the house and into the ground next to the foundation. Installing downspout extensions is also a great way to prevent foundation cracks. Your downspouts should release water 5-10 feet away from the foundation. If they don't, install extensions.
Installing Downspout Extensions is a Solution
Another option is to install an underground downspout and bubbler pot. The downspout installation system helps channel water away from the foundation and works like a sump pump. When the bubbler pot fills with water, it pops up and releases it away from the foundation. It's also important to avoid planting water-hungry vegetation next to the foundation. When you water the shrubs and flowers, you'll add more water to the soil around the foundation.
A Drain Tile System Helps Prevent Water Build-Up
Consider installing a specific drain tile system if you want to take extra precautions. This system stops water from accumulating in the soil around the foundation and comes in two types: exterior and interior. While installing a drain tile system is not a DIY project and will cost considerably more than the above options, it's an excellent way to protect your foundation.
Related Read: Best Time of the Year to Repair Foundation Cracks
Tips Avoiding Cracks Caused by Foundation Movement
Foundation cracks are a common issue that can lead to serious problems if not addressed promptly. So, what should you do if you spot any signs of movement? It's crucial to act swiftly in order to avoid any additional damage. Here are some tips to keep your foundations healthy:
Water Your Foundations Regularly
Watering your foundations multiple days a week is crucial. For a drip irrigation system, remember to schedule watering every other day for a few hours. During warmer and drier months, you may need to water daily if the soil around the foundation appears dry and cracking.
Maintain Proper Moisture Levels
While sprinklers can help moisten the ground and water the grass, they must maintain good water moisture in soil content. Installing a specific drip irrigation system or soaker hoses can ensure moisture penetrates deeper into the ground, protecting your slab.
Ensure Proper Drainage
While it is important to water your foundation, it is equally important to ensure that the water does not pool around your house for extended periods. When soil stays too wet, it can expand and cause basement walls to crack. This is especially true if plumbing leaks are allowed to dump water under the slab continually.
Be Mindful of Tree Placement
Trees, vegetations and shrubs can add beauty to your home, but planting them too close to your foundation can cause issues in the future. During dry seasons, trees can pull moisture from the soil and let the foundation to settle unevenly, leading to cracks.
By following these tips, you can prevent foundation cracks and ensure the longevity of your home.
Know The Root Cause of Cracking and Get Expert Foundation Repair Today
Foundation damage resulting from differential settlement can be a significant worry for homeowners. The good news is that there are many foundation repair options to tackle this problem. These choices consist of underpinning using push piers, helical piers, drilled concrete piers, and slab piers.
It is necessary to note that if you notice any of the aforementioned signs or anything suspicious not mentioned here, you must contact a foundation repair contractor for an inspection.
If you see cracks in your foundation, contact a foundation repair expert immediately for a free estimate and excellent service to ensure your home's safety.
