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Most Houston homeowners are no strangers to foundation problems. No matter where you live in Houston, your home is probably built on clay soil, which is one of the worst soil types for construction particularly due to its tendency to shift as it moistens and cracks as it dries. When it comes to your Houston home’s foundation, these properties can spell disaster. Now, let’s take a look at some of the most common problems Houston homeowners face with their foundations.
Shifting and Cracking Caused by Heaving
In the Houston-Galveston area, heaving occurs mostly during the wet seasonwhen the clay soil beneath the home is more prone to absorb water rapidly and expand. That happens because the clay particles this type of soil contains can retain large quantities of water, which may prevent the ground underneath your home from draining as effectively as sandy and rocky soils. But heaving can also occur during winterwhen the temperature drops below freezing—which is something that rarely happens in Houston. However, if water gets trapped in the soil around or underneath your foundation, low temperatures could cause it to freeze. Becausewater expands as it turns into ice, it can push the soil, causing it to expand. Excessive soil expansion almost always leads to heaving, which tends to occur particularly towards the outer edge of foundations.
In addition to forcing your home out of its level position—a situation referred to asdifferential settlement—heaving can exert unequal pressure on the underside of your foundation, especially around its edges and joints. This excess pressure may cause cracks to develop in the foundation and slab, which may break off corners and/or work their way inward towards the center area of the foundation.
Cracking Caused by Shrinkage
As hard as the wet season can be on your foundation, a dry spell can be just as damaging. When clay soil loses too much water, it starts to contract and retract from concrete structures, which may leave empty spaces around and beneath your foundation. This sudden lack of support could cause cracking in your foundation, especially when the clay soil dries out at different rates across the length of your house. In addition to the voids that may occur due to soil shrinkage, gaps could form when the soil gets washed away by heavy rain, flooding, or plumbing leaks. Each time that happens, new pockets may appear beneath your foundation, with the possibility of causing a variety of issues in the future.
Seepage and Your Houston Home Foundation
Once the first cracks appear in your foundation, things will likely continue to get worse with time. What might have begun as a few tiny spider-web cracks in one corner of your foundation can grow into a massive problem as soon as water starts to seep inside. Eventually, you will find that the cracks in your foundation are notably wider than before, and moisture is coming in along your walls and through your flooring.
Settling and Your Houston Home’s Foundation
Even under the best circumstances, it is normal for a home to settle over time. When a house is built, the weight is distributed evenly across the foundation. But as soil expands, contracts, and erodes at different rates, there will inevitably be places where the ground under the foundation succumbs to the weight on top and compacts itself.
Engineers know to plan for settling in advance, but even they cannot predict exactly what will happen. In some cases, the so-called normal settlingturns into differential settlement, which is a major foundation problem. Once that happens, you will likely discover a series of telltale signs, including large cracks in your foundation, diagonal cracks in your exterior walls, sloping or uneven floors, tiles detached from the slab, and doors and windows that start to jam.
Ultimately, most foundation problems in Houston originate with water around and underneath homes. While you may not be able to prevent major shifts in weather patterns, you can take some steps to manage the soil around your home so it won’t react so drastically to water and temperature variations. This is best accomplished by installing a foundation watering systemthat will keep the soil around your foundation adequately moist throughout the year. As this will prevent the soil from absorbing large amounts of water during the wet season and then rapidly drying out during the dry season, there is a lower probability that foundation cracks and voids will develop.
If you’ve recently seen any signs of foundation problemsaround your house, it is best to call Allied Foundationright away. Minor foundation damage, like small cracks and voids, can be treated in a few hours. Conversely, if you leave a foundation issue unaddressed for too long, you could be facing irreparable damage to your foundation, floors, walls, and even the rest of your home.
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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.
