Currently, Synchrony offers low monthly payments and many financing options. You can have your home repaired now and pay later with one of Synchrony's six monthly payment programs.
A sinkhole developing under a foundation is just one of the factors that can contribute to foundation failure in Houston. Sinkholes typically occur in areas withsoluble bedrock, such as limestone, salt rock, and/or carbonate rock. Because the groundwater moves through the bedrock, it can slowly dissolve and wash away these rocks. As a result, underground caves and tunnels form in these areas, causing the soil above to collapse or sink into the newly developed cavities.
When a sinkhole affects a piece of property, the best specialist to approach first is a geotechnical engineer qualified to evaluate subsurface conditions, perform specific geophysical tests, and come up with an appropriate solution that addresses the root cause of the problem. For example, when a sinkhole affects the foundation of a home, the best course of action is to have the entire property inspected by both a geotechnical engineer and a foundation repair contractor. On the other hand, when foundation issues are the result of other problems, such as repeated shrinkage and expansion of the soil due to seasonal changes,improper drainage, trees or shrubs planted too close to the house, and/or poor construction or repair techniques, calling in a foundation repair specialist is the best way to go about it.
As pointed out above, foundation damage can be caused by different things. However, some distinct changes in the look and feel of your landscape could be indicative of sinkhole problems. Although the most evident sign of a sinkhole is the sudden appearance of a hole in the ground, there are some less obviouswarning signs of sinkholes you should keep an eye out for if you live in Houston or surrounding areas. These are:
Soft and spongy spots– Any areas around your home or in your yard or garden that have become soft and spongy could indicate sinkhole activity.
Newly formed depressions in the ground – If depression develops on your property, it might be the sign of a sinkhole. However, there are a few other possible causes for a dip in the ground, such as old tree roots left to rot in the ground or buried debris from past construction that settles over time. If you observe a newly formed depression in an area where the land used to be flat, make sure you have it checked immediately by a professional. As well, cracks developing in your sidewalk and driveway may indicate a sinkhole forming underneath.
Tilting outdoor elements– Specific outdoor elements, such as fence posts, stairs, porches, or trees, which were straight before but are now tilting or leaning, could signal sinkhole problems as well. Sinking ground caused by a sinkhole could also expose tree roots that were previously buried. In some cases, trees could start to sink into the ground.
A part of the structure dropping down and cracking – Another sign of a sinkhole forming under your foundation is when one side of your home is lower than the other. New cracks could also form in your foundation or exterior walls. Whilefoundation shifting and/or cracking could also result from the expansion and contraction of clay soil, a sinkhole could undermine slab-on-grade as well as pier and beam foundations and cause major structural issues.
Other signs of a sinkhole forming under your house include:
water pooling around your home;
cracks forming where walls and ceilings or floors meet;
new cracks around doors and windows;
trim and molding pulling away;
warping, sagging, or bulging floors;
the abnormally strong earthy smell in the crawlspace;
Leaky pipes, higher than average water bills, cloudy water, debris in the water, or other unusual plumbing issues that indicate your plumbing system might have been damaged by a developing sinkhole.
Because sinkholes could cause a series of foundation problems that are identical to the problems resulting from other underlying issues, it’s very important to have your home checked out by an experienced professional as soon as you observe any of the aforementioned issues.
Sinkhole Repair Solutions
Contrary to popular belief, a sinkhole doesn’t have to be very large to cause major property damage. If your foundation was somehow affected by a sinkhole, underpinning and void filling are two of the expert methods commonly used to fix this type of damage. At Allied Foundation, we installconcrete piers underneath the foundation areas affected by sinkholes in order to lift, level, and stabilize your home.
If you live in Houston, it’s important to have your property inspected for sinkholes regularly. Our experts are ready to perform a thorough inspection on your home or other structures on your property and provide the appropriate services to correct different foundation issues, irrespective of their underlying causes. To learn more about the services that we provide or to schedule a free consultation, call 281-584-6943 today!
By Subscribing you agree to receive speacial news from Alled Foundation.
[forminator_form id="1732"]
wall, foundation, foam, floor, flood, leak, waterproofing, crawl space, basement waterproofing, concrete slab, basement, soil, drainage, water damage, home insurance, roof, construction, pier, chimney, steel, mildew, sump pump, concrete, staten island, masonry, drywall, inspection, pump, warranty, queens, moisture, erosion, long island, french drain, customer, sump, pipe, accessibility, anchor, driveway, new york city, pressure, renovation, customer satisfaction, foundation repair costs, foundation problems, foundation repair contractors, foundation inspections, foundation issues, foundation waterproofing, foundation repair contractor, foundation repair cost, basement waterproofing cost, repair foundation, foundation repair services, foundation repair company, home foundation repair, foundation settlement, foundation repair companies, basement systems, foundation repair specialists, foundation repair, basement foundation repair, professional foundation repair, concrete foundation repair, foundation repair solutions, foundation contractors near me, foundation specialist near me, basement repair near me, foundation companies near me, foundation experts near me, ram jack foundation, basement leak repair near me, crawl space repair near me, basement crack repair, wet basement repair near me, concrete leveling, polyurethane, deck, carbon, deep foundation, zip code, lawn, home improvement, drought, long island city, attention, sidewalk, clay, bathroom, dehumidifier, pest, sealant, polyurethane foam, home inspection, handyman, landscape, grout, epoxy, ceiling, wood, property, tile, groundwater, price, carpet, coating, expert, contract, infiltration, patio, fiber, fireplace, climate, pest control, soil moisture, stress, free estimate, foundation solutions, foundation crack repair, ram jack, free quotes, foundation settling, foundation specialist, leaky basement repair, wet basement repair, concrete foundation contractors, foundation contractors, basement repair, foundation companies, structural repair contractors, radon, central new york, village, natural disaster, infrastructure, reputation, pride, foundation repair near me, foundation repair service, insured, foundation wall repair, foundation repair experts, solid foundation, franklin square, residential foundation repair, foundation contractors in my area, foundation repair in my area, residential structural repair, best foundation repair companies, local foundation repair, commercial foundation repair, ozone, indoor air quality, vapor barrier
Do I call a foundation repair company if my house is leaning?
If your house is leaning, it’s crucial to call a foundation repair company. A leaning structure often indicates serious foundation issues that require immediate assessment and repairs to ensure your home’s safety and stability.
Are foundation repairs covered by insurance?
Foundation repairs may or may not be covered by insurance, depending on your specific policy and the cause of the damage. It's essential to check your homeowner's insurance policy or consult your insurance provider for clarification.
Can a foundation always be fixed?
Foundations can often be repaired; however, the specific circumstances and extent of damage will determine the feasibility and cost of repairs. Consulting a professional is essential for a thorough assessment to explore viable solutions.
Do foundation cracks need repair?
Foundation cracks need repair to prevent further damage to your home. Ignoring them can lead to structural issues, water intrusion, and costly repairs down the line. Addressing cracks early ensures your foundation remains stable and safe.
Can foundation cracks be repaired?
Foundation cracks can be repaired effectively. Various methods, such as epoxy injections and piering, are used to restore structural integrity and prevent further damage. Timely repairs are essential to protect your home and maintain its value.
Are foundation repairs tax deductible?
Foundation repairs may be tax deductible if they are necessary for maintaining the property or if they improve the value of your home. It's advisable to consult a tax professional to understand your specific eligibility and requirements.
Does foundation repair decrease home value?
Foundation repair does not decrease home value; in fact, addressing foundation issues proactively can enhance property value and attract potential buyers by ensuring a stable and safe living environment.
Are foundation repairs expensive?
Foundation repairs can be costly, but the expense is often necessary to prevent further damage to your home. The total cost will depend on the severity of the issues and the methods required for repair.
Are contractors needed to repair foundation?
Contractors are essential for repairing a foundation, as they have the expertise and tools necessary to accurately assess the damage and implement appropriate solutions. Professional contractors ensure the repairs are effective and comply with local codes.
Are foundation repairs permanent?
Foundation repairs are designed to be permanent solutions. When properly executed by experienced professionals, these repairs effectively address underlying issues and help maintain the structural integrity of your home over time.
Can foundation repair cause more damage?
Foundation repair can potentially cause more damage if not performed correctly. However, when carried out by qualified professionals, the process is designed to stabilize and protect your home's structure, minimizing any risks of additional issues.
Can foundation be repaired?
The foundation can indeed be repaired. Experienced professionals can assess the issues and implement effective solutions to restore stability and prevent further damage, ensuring the safety and longevity of your home.
Are foundation repairs worth it?
The worth of foundation repairs is significant, as they prevent further structural damage, enhance property value, and ensure the safety of your home. Investing in repairs can save you money in the long run by addressing issues early on.
Are foundation repairs covered by home insurance?
Foundation repairs may be covered by home insurance, but this depends on the cause of the damage and your specific policy. It's essential to review your coverage details and consult with your insurance provider for clarity.
Are foundation repairs covered by homeowners insurance?
Foundation repairs may or may not be covered by homeowners insurance, depending on the cause of the damage. If the foundation issues arise from a covered peril, such as a natural disaster, they are likely to be included in your policy.
Do foundation repairs last?
Foundation repairs can last for many years when performed by professionals, provided that underlying issues are properly addressed and maintained. Regular inspections and maintenance can further ensure the longevity of your foundation repairs.
Does foundation repair increase home value?
Foundation repair can increase home value by addressing structural issues that may deter potential buyers. A stable foundation is essential for safety and market appeal, making it a worthwhile investment for homeowners.
Do foundation repair companies fix leaks?
Foundation repair companies often address leaks as part of their services. They can identify the source of water intrusion and implement solutions to repair foundational issues, preventing further leaks and damage.
What signs indicate foundation issues?
Signs indicating foundation issues include cracks in walls or floors, doors and windows that stick, uneven or sloped floors, gaps around windows and doors, and water pooling near the foundation. Addressing these signs promptly can prevent further damage.
How long do foundation repairs take?
The duration of foundation repairs varies based on the severity of the issues and the methods used. Typically, repairs can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to complete.
Can DIY methods fix foundation problems?
DIY methods may provide temporary relief for minor foundation issues, but they often lack the effectiveness and durability of professional repairs. For significant problems, it’s best to consult experts to ensure long-lasting solutions.
What causes foundation cracks to develop?
Foundation cracks develop due to various factors, including soil movement, insufficient drainage, and extreme weather conditions. These elements can exert pressure on the foundation, leading to cracks that compromise the structural integrity of a home.
Are structural engineers involved in foundation repairs?
Structural engineers are indeed involved in foundation repairs, as they assess structural integrity, recommend appropriate solutions, and ensure compliance with safety standards during the repair process.
What is the cost range for foundation repairs?
The cost range for foundation repairs varies significantly based on factors such as the type and extent of damage, ranging from $2,000 to $7,000 on average. For specific estimates, it’s best to schedule an assessment.
How can I prevent future foundation issues?
Preventing future foundation issues involves maintaining proper drainage around your home, ensuring gutters are clean, and grading the soil to direct water away from the foundation. Regular inspections and addressing minor repairs promptly can also help avoid major problems.
What techniques are used in foundation lifting?
The techniques used in foundation lifting include slab jacking, piering, and foam injection. These methods effectively raise and stabilize the foundation by addressing the underlying soil issues and providing the necessary support.
Is financing available for foundation repairs?
Financing is available for foundation repairs. At Allied Foundation Repair, we offer various financing options to help homeowners manage the cost of essential foundation services.
What documents are needed for foundation repair estimates?
The documents needed for foundation repair estimates typically include the property deed, any previous inspection reports, photographs of visible issues, and structural plans if available. These help ensure an accurate assessment of the foundation's condition.
How often should foundation inspections occur?
Foundation inspections should occur at least once a year, or more frequently if you notice signs of foundation issues, such as cracks in walls or uneven floors. Regular assessments help prevent severe damage and costly repairs.
What warranties are offered on foundation repairs?
The warranties offered on foundation repairs typically include both a workmanship warranty and a material warranty, ensuring long-term protection for homeowners against defects or issues that may arise post-repair.
