Every house has to start somewhere, and that’s often with the foundation. Foundations are the structural base of a building, providing the stable surface upon which to build your precious home. Despite being out of sight and out of mind, your house would soon start to crumble without a strong foundation.
So, what happens when those foundations do start to crumble? What if there’s a sinkhole in your driveway, or you notice cracks are making their way up from the foundation into your house's walls? These all might be signs that you have foundation problems, and it's time to learn how to fix them.
Cracks in the Foundation
One of the first things you should look for when inspecting your foundation is cracks. While small cracks aren’t necessarily cause for alarm, larger cracks could indicate a bigger problem. If you see any cracks, it's important to have a professional foundation contractor take a look to determine the cause and whether or not repairs are necessary.
Aside from visible fissures, other signs of an unsteady or cracking foundation to look for include:
- Bowing or leaning walls
- Gaps around doors or windows
- Cracks in the drywall or plaster
- Uneven floors
Next Steps If You Have Foundation Cracks
If you notice cracks in your foundation, taking action immediately is important. Cracks can allow water and pests into your home. They can also cause the foundation to shift over time.
There are a few different ways to repair cracks in your foundation—the best way to fix them will depend on the severity of the damage. For small cracks, you can use caulk or epoxy to fill in the gaps. For larger cracks, you may need to use hydraulic cement or even replace sections of the foundation.
If you're unsure how to repair your foundation cracks, it's best to call in a professional. They’ll be able to assess the damage and recommend the best course of action.
What Causes Cracks in Your Foundation?
There are a few different things that can cause cracks to form in your foundation. The most common culprit is settling. As your home settles into its position, the foundation settles with it. This can cause the soil to shift and put pressure on the foundation, causing it to crack.
Other causes of cracks can include:
- Poorly compacted soil
- Inconsistent moisture levels in the soil
- Tree roots growing into or under the foundation
- Extreme changes in temperature
Whatever the cause of the cracks, it's important to address them as soon as possible. Cracks in your foundation can lead to serious problems like water damage, insect infestation, and even structural failure. So, if you see cracks, don't ignore them!
Ground Objects Interfering with Your Foundation
If you're concerned that there may be objects, such as large stones or underground pipes, playing havoc with your foundation, there are a few things you can do to check. First, take a look at the exterior of your foundation. If you see any cracks or breaks in the foundation, something may be buried beneath. You can also check for signs of upheaval, such as mounds of dirt or concrete that have been pushed up from below.
If you suspect that a large object is buried in your foundation and causing a problem, the best course of action is to call in a professional. They’ll have the tools and experience necessary to safely excavate the area and determine what, if anything, is buried beneath.
Some objects that may be buried in your foundation include:
- Large rocks or boulders, which can put stress on your foundation and cause cracks
- Tree roots, which can grow into your foundation and cause it to settle unevenly
- Expansive clay soil, a type of soil that expands when it gets wet and can put pressure on your foundation
What To Do if You Have Buried Objects
If you have buried objects on your property causing a foundation issue, taking care of them as soon as possible is essential. Buried objects can be a hazard to you and your family, and they can also cause damage to your property.
To remove buried objects, you'll need to excavate around your foundation. Always be sure to consult with a professional before starting any excavation work.
Here are some tips for dealing with buried objects:
- If the object is small, you may be able to dig it up yourself. Be careful not to damage any underground utilities while you're digging.
- If the object is large, you'll need to hire a professional to remove it.
- Once the object is removed, fill the hole with dirt and compact it.
- If the object is electrical, have an electrician check the area before putting in any new landscaping.
A Sinkhole Damaging Your Foundation
A sinkhole is a hole in the ground that forms when the material underneath the surface collapses. Sinkholes can range in size from a few feet to hundreds of acres. They can occur suddenly or gradually but often form after a period of heavy rains.
Sinkholes are a common problem in many parts of the country, especially areas with limestone or other porous rocks. If you think you might have a sinkhole on your property, it's important to act quickly, as sinkholes can cause serious damage to homes and other structures—they can even pose a danger to you or other household members.
A depression in the ground that wasn't there before or cracks in your foundation or walls could be signs of a sinkhole. Other symptoms include doors or windows that stick or won't close properly, water seeping into your basement, and changes in the property level where one side seems to be sinking.
If you think you have a sinkhole, don't try to fix it yourself. Call a foundation contractor who has experience dealing with sinkholes. They’ll be able to assess the situation and determine the best course of action.
Contact Your Local Foundation Contractors
If you need someone to take a look at your foundation, Environic Solutions Inc. is always a reliable choice. Get in touch with us anytime at (617) 504-0169 to speak with a certified foundation contractor.