Which Foundation Repair Solution is Right For Your Home?

If you’ve noticed horizontal cracks, sticky doors or other structural issues in your home, it’s time to find Plano Foundation Repair solution. But with so many options, how do you know which one is right for your property?

Start by making sure gutters and downspouts are clear of blockages, and that the soil around your foundation is properly graded to slope away from the house.

Foundation cracks can be an alarming sight, but they don’t necessarily mean that your home is in danger. Depending on the type of crack, the severity of the crack, and other signs of damage, a professional may need to inspect the area to find the cause of the problem and implement a permanent solution.

Non-structural cracks are typically hairline thin and occur when concrete shrinks during curing and settling. These aren’t a major concern as long as they don’t grow over time, and can be sealed using a special concrete crack filler to prevent water infiltration.

Wider cracks are more serious, and can be a sign that there is a structural problem with the foundation or the soil beneath it. It is important to monitor these cracks for growth and address any changes in the width of the gap as soon as possible.

When repairing cracks in concrete, it’s essential to clean out the gap with a wire brush and vacuum to remove any dirt or debris that can inhibit proper adhesion. A chisel can also be used to narrow the gap slightly for better adherence, and then filled with epoxy or polyurethane resin using a caulking gun. These specialized products are designed to seal the crack from moisture penetration and help stabilize the foundation.

If you’re dealing with a horizontal crack, it’s important to consult a professional right away as this indicates serious soil shifts that will need immediate attention. A professional will need to evaluate the situation and determine the root cause of the bowing by performing a thorough inspection of the foundation, surrounding landscape, and drainage system. It may be necessary to install a sump pump or alter the landscape to ensure that water flows away from the foundation rather than toward it.

All cracks need to be routinely inspected and monitored, regardless of their size or origin, to ensure they don’t get worse over time. If a crack in your foundation seems to be expanding, or is showing other signs of damage, contact the experts at Airlift Concrete Experts right away to discuss your options for permanent repair.

Shifting Soil

Shifting soil is one of the major causes of foundation damage. This is caused by fluctuations in moisture levels that cause the clay in the ground to expand and contract. These changes in volume create pressure that can damage and sink a foundation.

When clay-rich soil shrinks during a dry spell, it often pulls away from the foundation wall and leaves a gap. This gap is sometimes filled with gravel, stones or other materials. This can be very damaging to the foundation as the extra material adds pressure that will push back against the walls when it dries out again.

Another way soil can shift is by erosion. Erosion occurs when the dirt and rocks around a foundation are lost, causing a home to sink or settle unevenly. This can also lead to serious leaks and problems with plumbing. If the soil around a house is washing away, it is important to have it graded and slopped properly to redirect the flow of water away from the foundation.

Many people find out they have a shifting foundation when they start to see signs like cracks in the foundation walls or doors that won’t close. This type of damage is usually costly to repair as it often causes structural damage and can impact multiple parts of the home.

It’s not uncommon for a foundation to shift after it has been built. However, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It can still be repaired, but it requires a little more work and time. Generally, this is because the builder didn’t know about the shifting soil when the foundation was constructed.

The best way to prevent a shifting foundation is to have a soil test done before building a new home. This will let the builder know about the shifting soil and take precautions during construction. It’s also a good idea to plant trees and shrubs far enough away from the foundation that their roots won’t grow under the house and exert pressure on it. If this isn’t possible, a professional can install soil stabilizing anchors such as helical piers.

Water Infiltration

Regardless of whether your foundation is made of block or poured concrete, water can cause damage to the structure. Infiltration into a foundation is usually caused by high water levels and hydrostatic pressure. These conditions occur when the soil surrounding your home becomes saturated with water due to rainfall or heavy snowfall. This water seepage can push up against your foundation and create cracks in the floor and basement walls. This problem is exacerbated by poor drainage and improper landscape grading that allows water to pool around the foundation.

The best way to avoid major damage to your foundation is to take proactive steps to prevent water infiltration. This includes routine inspections of your basement and crawl space for signs of moisture. Mold, mildew, a musty smell, and standing water are all warning signs that you have a problem. If you do notice problems, call a professional right away to inspect the area and determine the source of the issue.

A foundation expert will be able to diagnose the cause of your foundation problem and provide the necessary repairs. In addition, he or she will also be able to advise you on prevention measures that can help avoid future problems. These can include waterproofing and French drains.

Getting your foundation repaired is vital for ensuring the safety of your home. Contact a reputable company like Donan that has a long history of providing comprehensive solutions for foundation repair and maintenance. Donan has a team of experts that can handle all your foundation needs, from minor to major projects.

Water infiltration in a foundation can be a serious problem that leads to structural damage and a costly repair bill. Fortunately, there are many ways to detect and address this problem before it becomes a bigger issue. By regularly examining your foundation and basement for cracks that may have appeared, you can catch issues early and save yourself from expensive repairs later on. Water infiltration is the number one reason for foundation failures, so it is essential to identify and fix the problem as soon as you notice it.

Structural Damage

Structural damage is one of the most serious problems a foundation can face. It can compromise the safety and structural integrity of a home or building, and if left unrepaired, it may result in more severe problems like sagging floors or cracked walls. Fortunately, many types of structural damage can be repaired, so long as it is addressed promptly.

The severity of structural damage will depend on a number of factors, including the type and extent of the movement and the underlying cause. A trained consultant can assess the problem and recommend a permanent repair solution that suits your home’s specific needs.

Some common signs of structural damage include wide or diagonal cracks in foundation walls, bowed block or masonry wall, or concrete walls that are out of plumb. These are generally proof that the foundation has suffered movement and should be repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage.

Poor soil preparation and compaction can also contribute to shifting after foundation pouring, as well as moisture seepage. In addition, the roots of large trees and shrubs planted too close to a foundation can absorb moisture from the soil and make it shrink or expand, affecting foundation stability. In this case, it is recommended that the root systems of these plants be kept at a safe distance from the house.

Other common signs of structural damage include leaning or buckling foundation walls, and sagging floors. Regardless of the cause, these issues can be costly and hazardous for occupants, and should be addressed promptly to avoid further damage.

Choosing a professional for foundation repair is important, and you should be sure to select a company that is licensed, insured, and has a good reputation in the industry. During the consultation process, look for a company that provides clear and comprehensive information about the repairs they can offer and how they plan to address your foundation problems. They should be able to answer any questions you have about the process, as well as provide a warranty that can be transferred should the business fail.