Residential Foundation repair

What Causes Foundation Problems?

There are a few things that can cause your home to have foundation problems, and many of them relate back to the soil your foundation is on. Poor soil compaction can lead to the soil shifting around, which can the cause the foundation to shift as well.

Since soil expands and shrinks depending on moisture levels, it can leave voids under the foundation, which can weaken its stability and cause it to move and crack. Another common problem is for tree and plant roots close to the foundation to absorb any moisture, creating a void like previously mentioned, which can lead to foundation problems.

Recognizing Foundation Problems

You may not be sure how to know if you are in need of a residential foundation repair. While it is important to get any potential problems inspected by a professional, there are some signs you can look for. First and foremost, you may feel like your home is sloping, it could be a sign that your foundation is unlevel.

Other big sign of foundation problems would be cracks in the walls, ceilings, and floor of your home, doors that stick, sloping floors, and bowing walls. Similarly, you may notice problems with your home’s stoop or the formation of cracks along the outside as well. If you notice any of this, do not wait to call and request an inspection and consultation, to find out how severe the problem is and home much the repairs might cost you.

Residential Foundation Repair

When it comes to performing the foundation repair, the repair method will differ depending on the type of foundation you have. If you have a slab foundation, then your home needs to be lifted hydraulically lifted off of the foundation so that the repair crew can drill holes into the ground and pour in concrete piers.

These will help provide added stability and strength to your foundation. On the other hand, if you have a pier and beam foundation then the worker will get into your crawlspace and, after shoring—similar to the hydraulic lift used in slab foundation repair—your home, they will begin working to replace the old and rotten beams.

Like with any work that you may be getting done at your home, you never want to leave your residential foundation repair to an inexperienced and uncertified company. They may be a cheaper often, but they will likely take shortcuts to complete the work or claim to have fixed the problem when they really only provided a temporary fix. This can lead you to spending even more in the long run because you will need to get more repairs done.