What Causes Foundation Damage?
There are many things that can cause foundation damage. Some of the most common causes are improper drainage around the foundation, poor construction techniques, and even just the natural settling of a home over time. Look at some of the most common causes of foundation damage and what home foundation repair you can do to fix them.
Improper Drainage
One of the most common causes of foundation damage is improper drainage around the home. When water doesn’t drain away from the foundation, it can seep into cracks and cause the ground to become unstable.
Several actions can be taken to enhance drainage around your house and prevent foundation damage. Make sure that gutters are clean and free of debris so they can properly drain water away from the foundation. You should also check the grades around your home and make sure that they slope away from the foundation. If you have any low-lying areas near the foundation, consider filling them in with topsoil to improve drainage.
Poor Construction Techniques
Another common cause of foundation damage is poor construction techniques. If a home is not built properly, it can put extra stress on the foundation and cause it to crack or settle over time.
There are a few things you can look for to see if a home has been built properly. First, check the foundation itself. It should be made of concrete, bricks, or another sturdy material. The foundation should also be deep enough so that it extends below the frost line. Next, check the framing of the house. If you can see any cracks or gaps in the framing, it’s likely that the house wasn’t built properly and is at risk for foundation damage.
Natural Settling
Even if a home is built perfectly, it will still settle over time. This is because the ground underneath the foundation will shift and compact over time. This can cause the foundation to sink or crack, which can lead to serious damage.
Several actions can be taken to stop natural settling. First, make sure that the soil around your home is well-compacted. You can do this by hiring a professional to compact the soil or by using a tamper yourself.
Are you noticing any of the signs mentioned above? If you need a home foundation repair in the Earlville, NY area, make sure to turn to Dwayne James General Contracting! For an appointment, give us a call at (315) 203-1957.