A patio/ porch is a great outdoor space that we all love to have as part of our house. However, the realization that your porch is detaching from the rest of your house can be disconcerting, signaling potential structural concerns that demand immediate attention. Seeking the services of a Foundation Repair Evaluator becomes paramount as they possess the knowledge and experience to delve into the intricacies of the situation.
Their evaluation encompasses a thorough examination of the stationary elements of the porch, such as its base and foundation, as well as an analysis of any discernible movement or shifting. By calling upon a qualified professional at this stage, you are taking a proactive step toward addressing the underlying problems that may be causing the separation.
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In most cases, separation of the porch from the main house is caused by slope failure which is triggered by either slow movement on the hillside or movement of the retainer walls as the soil behind it continues to slide. In the case of retainer partition movement, movements can be sudden or gradual.
Outdoor auxiliary structures such as porches are often at a greater risk of foundation damage because they’re constantly exposed to various elements. Ordinarily, outdoor structures are known to put a lot of pressure and weight on the soil below. In addition, soil erosion caused by rain and wind also removes soil thus weakening the support. Problematic outdoor concrete can also trigger the porch pulling away from the main or adjacent building.
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Retaining Walls Failure
Retaining wall failure is a common cause of porch damage and separation. When the weight of the adjacent building exceeds that of the retaining wall, there is a buildup of static pressure along the partition which causes damage. Some retaining walls usually have weak points because of poor workmanship during construction leading to a collapse.
Retaining wall failure is caused by a number of factors that compromise the strength of the wall. At Granite Foundation Repair, we recommend these issues should be addressed in advance during the construction phase.
Causes of Retaining Wall Failure
- Poor drainage is known to cause a buildup of hydrostatic pressure behind a retaining wall causing weakening or collapse as the partition may not be able to handle the extra load.
- The retaining wall footing should not be shallow. This is crucial in order to safeguard the partition from weight caused by saturated soil.
- The use of substandard materials and failure to ensure adequate reinforcement of bars leads to retaining wall failure.
- When an extra load is placed on top of a retaining wall, it triggers a blowout failure.
Slope Failure and Its Causes
When the topography of a slope changes, a retaining wall is often unable to cope with the pressure it wasn’t initially designed to handle. In addition, structures built on steep slopes often experience foundation problems because steeper slopes are usually unstable and can easily succumb to movements thus affecting the porch.
Addressing the aftermath of such events requires a thorough inspection by professionals who can assess the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate remedial measures. Whether it involves reinforcing the porch’s foundation, repairing structural components, or implementing preventative measures, timely intervention is crucial to restoring stability and preserving a connection to the main structure.
Sudden Shocks
Sudden earth movements such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, blasting, and hurricanes cause damage to a porch which at times, manifests as visible separation from the main structure. The impact may not always be immediate, and damages could manifest gradually over time. Visible separation serves as an outward indication of the underlying stresses and structural alterations caused by these sudden earth movements.
Water, Drainage and Soil
When it rains heavily, air is replaced by water which causes the soil to become saturated and the earth to become heavier. Soils with high clay content tend to expand when they come into contact with water causing movements. This is evident especially when the soil underneath the front porch is clay. On the other hand, sand is easily eroded when it comes into contact with water. Both scenarios cause porches to move away from the foundation.
Should you realize your patio has separated from your home’s foundation, you should get in touch with a professional in order to have the issue addressed. At Granite Foundation Repair, we are aware of all these issues and we do a thorough investigation in order to identify your problem and solve it once and for all.
Bottom Line
A porch serves as a wonderful extension of homes, providing an inviting outdoor space for relaxation and entertainment. Yet, it becomes a source of significant worry when you observe an unexpected separation between it and the main part of your property. When faced with this unsettling scenario, it is crucial to promptly engage the expertise of a foundation repair expert. This professional is equipped to conduct a comprehensive assessment, scrutinizing both the stationary and dynamic components of the porch to understand the extent of the issue.
Contact the trusted team at Granite Foundation Repair today to learn more about our services!