Explore Causes
If you spot cracks or unevenness in your Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, or Savannah home, you could be dealing with major foundation problems. At Mount Valley Foundation Services, we get to the root of why these problems occur, so we can fix it at the source. Here, we’ll explain the most common reasons for cracking, and unevenness. Keep reading to learn more.
Common Foundation Repair Causes
So, you’ve spotted a problem. Now, it’s time to figure out where it’s coming from. Here are a few common causes for foundation issues below, and our recommendations for prevention and foundation repair.
The soil beneath your foundation has a lot on its plate. On average, most houses weigh between 80,000 and 160,000 lbs. In the rainy south and eastern seaboard, heavy moisture content in the soil can cause it to fluctuate in size and cause movement below the surface. Over time, the weight plus the moisture composition weakens the soil, causing a foundation to sink.
Since the soil underneath your foundation won’t move around and absorb water at a uniform rate, differential settlement is a common source of foundation issues. Differential settlement is when certain parts of your home sink and settle faster than the rest. That’s where you’ll begin to notice major exterior cracks and cracks in your drywall.
Clay soil, prominent in Georgia and South Carolina, is classified as an expansive soil. This means that when it rains, the soil soaks up water and expands in size. When the soil dries out, during a long period of dry weather, it will shrink. This constant movement causes major issues for your foundation. Expansion can cause basement walls to bow, or slab foundations to heave. When the soil dries, it creates air pockets, causing your foundation to crack and sink down.
Clay soil is the source of many foundation issues near you, but there are things you can do to lessen the damage. Ensure your yard is positively graded, and that your gutters are in shape. If you’re already dealing with foundation damage, call your local expert for a free inspection. They may suggest a drainage system, or various structural underpinning solutions like pier systems of wall braces.
Tree Roots
Tree roots may seem benign in nature, but they can cause a problem for your foundation if they’re planted too close. Especially in periods of dry weather, tree roots will stretch far and shallow below the earth in search of moisture and nourishment. This can include right beneath your home, interfering with your slab foundation, basement, or crawl space structure.
Tree roots can displace the soil around your foundation, causing cracking, sinkage, and unevenness. While this may seem far-fetched, it does happen despite being avoidable. Ensure that trees aren’t planted at least 15 to 20 feet away from your home, or have them removed. And if you’re already suffering from cracking or other structural issues, reach out to our specialists.
Free Inspection with Mount Valley Foundation Services: There is Hope for Your Foundation
At Mount Valley, we understand the stress that comes with facing foundation issues. That’s why we focus on targeting the causes of your home issues, instead of covering up the issue with a bandage solution. Our philosophy is to repair and protect your home the right way, once, so you won’t have to worry about it again.
Contact us for a completely free inspection of your foundation, and we’ll provide you with a free quote for repairs. There’s no pressure to book with us after an inspection. You have a lot to consider as a homeowner, and we want to put the decision in your hands. Contact us today to consider your options and get started.
