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The best way to preserve your home’s foundation and avoid costly foundation repairs is to create stable conditions around your Houston home so that the clay soil underneath will not move or crack. There are several simple ways to do this that involve monitoring the soil closest to your home, inspecting your crawlspace, ensuring proper drainage, and more. Here are a few tips to get you started, so you can protect your home today and in the future.
Know What You Can Control To Prevent Foundation Damage
One of the biggest causes of foundation damage in the Houston area is indoor plumbing leaks. These account for thousands of dollars in damage every year, and they can be devastating for your concrete foundation and the slab on top of it. Because a severe water leak could progressively wash away the soil that supports your foundation, it could cause your foundation and slab to drop, shift, or crack. Any of these problems can lead to extensive structural damage in any home. You can minimize the risk of this happening by having your plumbing inspectedevery year, especially in the bathroom, where water is likely to back up if there is a problem anywhere in the house. Ensuring proper drainage around and underneath your foundation is another thing you can do to prevent water from accumulating underneath your home and causing foundation damage.
Keep Your Eye on Trees To Prevent Foundation Damage
Trees can be another major problem for your Houston home’s foundation. While they might offer you shade and comfort during the summer months, some species have incredibly shallow, invasive roots that can dig deep into the tiniest cracks in your foundation and encroach on your water and sewer lines. As roots grow slowly underground, it may take years for you to notice any damage. However, once they become tough and woody and start to expand in diameter considerably, they can disrupt the soil underneath your home. Since this could cause movement under your house, large cracks may begin to develop in your foundation and slab. Once roots have gotten in, it can be very difficult to get rid of them without removing the tree. Ideally, you will make sure that all of your trees are planted far away from your foundation and also install a root barrieraround the perimeter of your home to protect it against invasive root systems.
Check Your Yard Slope
In this case, we are referring to the gentle slopethat should exist within the 2 to 4 feet perimeter around any Houston home. Whether your house is on a large hill or not, all of the soil that touches your foundation should be built up in such a way that falling rain can easily drain away from your home. If you inspect the soil around your home and discover that it slopes toward your foundation instead of away from it, you must take corrective action by adding soil or other filler. Otherwise, rainwater may be funneled in toward your foundation, walls, and crawlspace, where it could cause soil expansion and erosion. These issues may create a whole host of problems throughout your home. We also recommend having a French draininstalled around their home. Offering a great alternative to open ditches, this type of drain will further help direct water away from your home, thus preventing it from reaching your foundation.
Clean Your Gutters
Much like the slope of the soil closest to your home’s foundation, your gutters and downspouts are responsible for directing water outward. If your gutters are full of debris, or if they are rusted through, they cannot do their job properly. Cleaning your gutters in the spring and sometimes in the fall as well will ensure that water can be safely gathered and routed away without overflowing down to your foundation.
Don’t Let Your Soil Dry Out
While pools of water can be damaging to your foundation, extremely dry soil can be just as harmful. This is because the clay soil that we have in the Greater Houston area tends to crack and shrink away from concrete structures when it dries out. Thus, during dry weather, the ground under your home may dry out completely, leaving dead spaces beneath your foundation that’s no longer supported properly. This may allow your foundation to move and shift, which could cause cracks to develop not only in your foundation and slab but also throughout your entire home. If your area is experiencing a drought, it is wise to use a soaker hose to gently moisten the ground around your foundation, but without causing water to run off.
Many of the tasks on this list can be completed in little time and without any special tools. However, you should make sure to have a professional assess any damage that you discover during your routine inspections and maintenance. You can also contact our local foundation repair specialiststoday and schedule a free foundation inspection before any damage occurs! In case of any foundation problems, our professionals will also be able to recommend the most appropriate repair method for the type of foundation you have and offer you a free, no-hassle foundation repair estimate.
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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.
