Foundation upheaval is a serious problem that many homeowners encounter, but it’s often not well understood. When a home’s foundation starts to rise unexpectedly, it can lead to severe structural issues and costly repairs.
Understanding the causes of foundation upheaval can help property owners recognize warning signs early, avoid expensive damage, and take the right steps to fix the problem.
Foundation Upheaval
Foundation upheaval refers to the abnormal upward movement of a home’s foundation. This happens when the soil beneath the foundation swells, pushes the foundation up, and causes parts of the house to rise unevenly.
This upward motion is in contrast to foundation settlement, which occurs when the foundation sinks due to shrinking or compressing soil. Both issues can create serious structural problems, but upheaval is often more damaging because it impacts various parts of the foundation unevenly, leading to cracks and shifting in walls, floors, and ceilings.
Causes of Foundation Upheaval
Several factors can contribute to foundation upheaval. The most common causes include:
Soil Expansion (Clay Soils)
One of the most frequent causes of foundation upheaval is soil expansion, particularly in areas with high clay content in the soil. Clay soils are known to expand and contract significantly with changes in moisture levels.
During periods of heavy rainfall or when there is poor drainage, the clay absorbs water, swells, and exerts pressure on the foundation. This swelling can push the foundation upward, causing upheaval.
Excessive Moisture
Water is a major factor in causing foundation upheaval. When the soil around a home becomes oversaturated, it can lead to uneven pressure on the foundation. This might occur due to poor drainage, leaks from plumbing and irrigation systems, or improper grading around the house.
Water pooling near the foundation over time can soften the soil, making it more prone to expansion. Even seasonal changes, such as thawing after a frost, can introduce excess moisture into the soil and contribute to upheaval.
Frost Heave
In colder climates, frost heave is another common cause of foundation upheaval. When water in the ground freezes, it expands, increasing the pressure on the soil and pushing the foundation upward.
This can be particularly problematic in regions where there are repeated freeze-thaw cycles, as the soil constantly expands and contracts.
Plumbing Leaks
Undetected or long-term plumbing leaks can cause water to accumulate beneath the foundation.
Whether it’s a broken water pipe or a slow leak from an irrigation system, excess water under the foundation creates hydrostatic pressure that can push the structure up. Leaks often go unnoticed until damage becomes visible, making regular inspections important.
Poor Drainage
Homes with inadequate drainage systems are more prone to foundation upheaval. Without proper drainage, water from rain, melting snow, or even everyday activities like watering the lawn can accumulate around the foundation.
Tree Roots
Tree roots can also contribute to foundation upheaval. Large trees planted too close to a home can have extensive root systems that reach beneath the foundation.
As the roots grow and expand, they can push the soil and cause the foundation to shift or rise. Tree roots may also affect the moisture content of the soil, exacerbating the swelling and contraction cycles that lead to upheaval. While removing tree roots can be costly, it is important to do it before it causes major issues.
Signs of Foundation Upheaval
Foundation upheaval can show itself in a variety of ways, including:
Cracks in the Foundation
One of the most obvious is cracking. Cracks may appear in the foundation itself, or you may see cracks in interior and exterior walls. These cracks can be vertical, horizontal, or diagonal and tend to grow over time if the problem isn’t addressed.
Uneven Floors
When the foundation moves upward, it can cause floors to become uneven. You may notice areas of your home where the floors seem to slope or bulge, making it difficult to walk or place furniture evenly.
Doors and Windows Sticking
Another common sign of foundation upheaval is difficulty opening or closing doors and windows. As the foundation shifts, it can throw the frames of doors and windows out of alignment. This may cause doors to stick, windows to jam, or noticeable gaps around the frames.
Gaps Around Exterior Walls
If you notice gaps forming between your home’s walls and the ground outside, this could be a sign of foundation upheaval. As the foundation lifts, it can cause the exterior walls to pull away from the soil.
Preventing Foundation Upheaval
While some causes of foundation upheaval, like soil type or regional climate, may be out of a homeowner’s control, there are steps that can be taken to minimize the risk:
Ensure Proper Drainage
Installing proper drainage systems, including gutters, downspouts, and French drains, can help redirect water away from the foundation. Keeping water from pooling around the house is key to preventing soil expansion.
Monitor Watering
Avoid overwatering landscaping and be mindful of where irrigation systems are placed. Too much water near the foundation can contribute to upheaval over time.
Address Plumbing Issues Quickly
Fix any plumbing leaks or broken pipes as soon as possible to prevent water from accumulating under the foundation. Regular inspections by a plumber can help catch hidden leaks early.
Maintain Trees and Landscaping
If you have large trees close to your home, consider consulting with an arborist to monitor root growth. In some cases, removing or relocating trees may be necessary to protect your foundation.
Bottomline
Foundation upheaval is a serious problem that can arise due to a variety of factors, including soil expansion, excessive moisture, frost heave, plumbing leaks, poor drainage, and even tree roots. Recognizing the warning signs early, such as cracks in the foundation, uneven floors, and sticking doors, is crucial to preventing further damage.
By taking preventative measures like ensuring proper drainage and fixing leaks quickly, homeowners can reduce the likelihood of foundation upheaval.
If you suspect that your home is experiencing foundation upheaval, Granite Foundation Repair Inc. is here to help. Our team of experts can assess your foundation, identify the underlying cause of the upheaval, and provide reliable solutions to stabilize your home.
Don’t wait for the problem to get worse contact us today for a professional inspection and personalized repair plan tailored to your needs. Let us help protect your home from further damage and ensure its long-term stability.