When it comes to maintaining the structural integrity of your home, understanding soil movement is crucial. The soil beneath your foundation plays a significant role in supporting the weight of your house and keeping it stable. However, various factors can cause the soil to shift or settle, leading to foundation issues that require repair.

One of the most common causes of soil movement is changes in moisture levels. When the soil becomes too dry or too wet, it can expand or contract, putting pressure on your foundation. This can lead to cracks in the walls, uneven floors, and other signs of foundation damage.

Another factor that can contribute to soil movement is poor drainage around your home. If water is allowed to pool near your foundation, it can seep into the soil and cause it to become saturated. This can weaken the soil and make it more prone to shifting or settling.

In some cases, natural events such as earthquakes or landslides can also cause significant soil movement that affects your foundation. These events can put immense pressure on your home’s structure and lead to serious damage if not addressed promptly.

To prevent or address issues related to soil movement, it’s essential to work with a professional foundation repair company. These experts have the knowledge and tools needed to assess the condition of your foundation and recommend appropriate solutions.

One common method used by foundation repair specialists is underpinning. This process involves installing additional support beneath your foundation to stabilize it and prevent further settlement. Underpinning may involve using steel piers or helical piers that are driven deep into the ground until they reach stable bedrock or load-bearing strata.

Another technique commonly used for addressing foundation issues caused by soil movement is mudjacking. Mudjacking involves injecting a mixture of cement, water, and sand beneath a sunken slab of concrete to raise it back into place. This method is often used for repairing uneven concrete driveways or sidewalks caused by settling soil.

In some cases, simply improving drainage around your home may be enough to prevent further damage from occurring due to soil movement. Ensuring that gutters are clean and free-flowing, directing downspouts away from the house’s foundation, and grading the land around your home properly are all steps you can take to help maintain stable soils beneath your house.

By understanding how soil movement can affect your home’s foundation and working with professionals when needed, you can ensure that your Volunteer Property Design remains safe and structurally sound for years to come.

Volunteer Property Design
904 Iroquois Trl, TN, Goodlettsville, Tennessee, 37072
615-992-6943