The condition of the soil under and around your home is rarely considered a factor when it comes to foundation stability, however the quality and type of soil can make a huge impact on the structural integrity of your home. Overtime, the soil below your house can move, change, or contract which causes changes to your home and its foundation. Keep reading to learn more about the effects that soil can have on your foundation’s stability, how to catch these changes, and ways to stabilize your foundation!
Why Does Soil Quality Matter?
The quality and type of soil that your house sits on can make a huge difference on the stability and safety of your home. Clay soil swells and shrinks as the weather changes, which can cause movement and take a toll on your home. Sandy soil is not as strong and may cause shifting as it does not hold moisture well. Silt soil is in-between and holds moisture longer but does not stay tight and compact. The soil in eastern North Carolina is a mix of these, which is why it’s important to understand the soil conditions around your home, notice when they change, and keep an eye on the foundation of your house. With the right solutions and techniques, you can prevent foundation damage from occurring or worsening!
How Do Soil Issues Lead to Damage?
When the soil under your house becomes unstable, it can alter or damage your home and potentially lead to severe issues. A shift in the foundation can compromise your home’s structural integrity, which can be a safety hazard to you and your family. The foundation supports the entire home, so problems that begin at the bottom can cause damage that goes all the way up. Whether the soil is too damp or not damp enough, or the temperature has fluctuated, small cracks and minor damage can quickly turn into severe and expensive issues. The sooner you notice these complications and have them fixed, the easier the repair will be.
Signs of Damage
To know if your foundation is suffering, it’s important to know what kind of signs to look out for. Common indicators that your foundation has damage are noticeable cracks in the foundation or on the walls or ceilings of your home, doors and windows that are harder to open or stick, or sagging or uneven floors. Sometimes, there may be problems that have occurred that you cannot see. A damaged foundation can also lead to crawlspace issues like mold and mildew growth, or even pest infestations. These challenges can start small but can quickly and quietly lead to more extensive problems.
Sutton Specialty Contractors Solutions
The Sutton Specialty Contractors team provides a variety of solutions to foundation damage or instability depending on the situation and need. If foundation damage has occurred, we provide repair services to fix any problems, all done in accordance with the NC code of building. To combat saggy floors, we offer adjustable jacks to provide additional support that may be needed. For an unstable or settling foundation, we can install push piers that transfer weight to offer additional strength. Because moisture can cause even more damage, we also provide solutions like French drains to reroute water away from your house, which keeps the area clear of standing water. We know that all situations are different, which is why we offer an inspection to determine the exact problem before deciding what fix is right for your home. If you are concerned about the stability of your home or are looking for foundation solutions, we can help! Our team proudly provides quality, affordable repairs tailored to fit your needs. Give us a call today to schedule your free evaluation – 252-320-2577.
