If you see soil cracks starting to form in your yard, or, you observe soil pulling away from your foundation, be aware that foundation movement or damage may follow.
Rain gutter downspouts that dump water into flower beds or directly onto the soil next to your foundation can often lead to foundation movement!
Rain water coming off of the house or lot next door, directed toward your foundation, can lead to foundation movement.
Underground French, or surface drains, that are stopped up or do not drain freely are more likely to cause foundation movement than prevent it.
With zero lot line homes; the neighbors’ side of your house is often not maintained properly and becomes a source of foundation movement.
Most of our rains blow in from the west, hit the west wall of a structure and run down into flower beds and other low areas next to the house. This can lead to foundation movement.
Duplex or multifamily structures rarely have damage to one unit without affecting the other units.
Sewer line leaks under a slab or pier and beam structure, sprinkler leaks and pool leaks are often the cause of foundation damage.
At least half of all foundation problems in areas of expansive soils involve upheaval.
The signs of upheaval are very similar to settlement. Piers are usually not a cure for upheaval despite what the foundation companies say.
Gutters and drains need to be cleaned regularly.
Gutters need to direct water away from the building.
Disturbed soil next to, or under a foundation is seldom compacted enough to prevent unwanted water from intruding under the foundation.
Soaker hose and drains are often needed in the same area of a yard to prevent soil movement.
Proper maintenance of the soil, around and under your structure, is the most important thing you can do to prevent foundation movement, foundation damage and the need for expensive repairs.
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