Foundation failure is a significant, not to mention, costly problem in its own right. But the sooner you identify potential problems, the easier – and less expensive – it is to repair them. When in doubt contact Granite Foundation Repair.
Homeowners often wonder how to identify the different signs or causes of foundation issues and problems. Fortunately, most of these problems are often visible.
If you’re a homeowner in the Dallas, Fort Worth area, here are five common causes of foundation issues you should be on the lookout for:
1. Poor soil compaction
Before a foundation is laid, the earth beneath it needs to be properly prepared. Soft, low-density soils and/or improperly compacted soil beneath a structure can cause serious issues. The foundation can sink under the load bearing weight of the structure.
2. Large tree roots
Large tree roots can severely affect a building’s foundation. Roots of certain trees can creep under your house and damage your slab or even lift your foundation. It’s therefore key to select trees that don’t have an invasive root problem.
As a general rule of thumb, choose trees that have taproots. Examples of such trees include conifers, hickory, walnut trees, and oaks.
3. Leaks from plumbing fixtures
Leaks can go unnoticed for weeks, if not months. Many homes in Dallas have cracked concrete slab foundations due to an unknown leak. It is important to check for leaks from pipes, plumbing fixtures, and fittings to prevent expensive foundation issues.
The first step to tracing any leakage is to check the readings of a water meter. According to a report, the average household in the US uses a little over 10,000 gallons of water a month, ten percent of which is wasted due to plumbing issues.
To check a water meter for leaks;
- Turn off all faucets inside and outside your house, then;
- Check the flow indicator. A check flow indicator is a small rotating wheel on the meter that can detect even small amounts of water flow. If it’s moving then there are leaks located somewhere in your house. At this point, you could consider getting professional help.
- Another source of water leaks is the sewer line. Sewer lines should be checked every 2-4 years. For this, you will need to hire a plumber.
4. Lack of a proper foundation drainage system
Improper drainage is one of the leading causes of foundation issues. Poor drainage can leave your home vulnerable to a number of serious health, safety, and financial concerns.
A house’s slab foundations, are greatly affected by moisture. Flooding is a more serious issue. Some of the problems caused by too much water include:
- Sticking doors and windows
- Discoloration and premature aging of concrete and exterior brick
- Damage to landscape and soil erosion
- Cracks in interior walls and exterior surfaces
- Dangerous loss of foundation stability
5. Soil and climate problems
In North Texas, the soil and the climate are major contributors of foundation issues. Clay soil is one of the worst types of soil to build a foundation on. When it’s very dry, it shrinks. Alternatively, when it’s wet, it swells just as dramatically as it shrinks when dry.
This drastic change can create pressure against the foundation, which can lead to foundation movement.
