Posts Categorized: Maintenance

Do not remodel your home until you have done this

Do not remodel your home until you have done this!

 

 

Have you been eyeing a new look for your home, or starting to talk about home improvements? There is something you should do before you even start to think about remodeling.

You should always have your home’s foundation checked before you do any home improvements. The number one problem we get called out on is cosmetic damage as a result of foundation movement. The homeowner either just remodeled or patched the cracks and they came back. 

While some of the stress seen in homes could be just seasonal movement, it most likely is due to the foundation moving and in need of repair. If you fix cracks or remodel you are just putting a bandaid over the wound, and not fixing the main problem. This will result in the same signs you thought you had repaired coming back, but this time in the newly remodeled area. 

 

So before you go and spend all of your money making repairs and doing home improvements, let’s talk about a few things you should know, and watch for. 

The type of cracks matter. There are two major differences between seasonal movement cracks and foundation movement cracks. Seasonal movement cracks typically occur in the seams where two sheets of drywall meet. They are straight line cracks, and are usually very small. 

Cracks caused by foundation movement are typically jagged cracks that come off doors or windows in angles. These cracks look as if the drywall is ripping. A simple trick to think of is the direction the crack is pointing, is the area of the house that is settling or in need of foundation repair. 

 

Another common item frequently updated in a home is the flooring. Flooring is either attached to the foundation or free floating. Free floating floors like laminate or vinyl planks typically have less problems when the foundation is moving. 

However flooring such as tile or hardwood floors that are attached to the concrete foundation can see significant damage when the foundation is moving or when the foundation is repaired. 

When we inspect homes for foundation problems, we see tile cracks or in some cases where the floor is buckling due to it  being compressed. When asked if the flooring is new, the most common answer is yes. 

We cannot stress it enough that if you plan on doing any home improvements or remodeling, that you call a foundation company you can trust like Stratum Foundation repair first. We come out and inspect the foundation for movement. If we think there are no repairs needed and the foundation is within normal tolerances, then you have a green light to renovate. 

 

If the foundation inspection shows signs of foundation movement you want to take care of that before you even start to do any improvements to the home. The foundation of the home affects everything in your house. 

Once the foundation is repaired with piers and lifted back to normal height, we recommend waiting 90 days. After the 90 days you can move forward with the improvements and feel comfortable that your investment is going to be safe. 

Even if your foundation is in good shape, you should still water the foundation, maintain proper drainage and install root barriers to help with any seasonal movement you may still see. Take a look at our other blog on home maintenance to ensure you do everything you can to protect your home.

 

Is it Safe to Live in a House with Foundation Problems?

Dangers of an Un-Fixed Foundation

Is it Safe to Live in a House with Foundation Problems?

Do you live in a home with a foundation problem, or considering the purchase of a house with existing foundation damage? Let’s talk about how safe it is to live in a house with foundation problems. More specifically, how you can spot common foundation problems versus a more severe foundation issue that raises safety concerns.

It All Begins with a Home’s Foundation Inspection

The home buying process brings people face to face with questions about foundation damage they often lack experience in properly evaluating. For starters, it’s not uncommon to find a cracked foundation wall in DFW. This doesn’t mean your new home has a foundation failure or structural damage to run away from.

Common Foundation Problems are Not Safety Concerns

Slab foundations sit on expansive soil in our region. This clay soil base constantly moves based upon the amount of water present. Foundation settlement is a normal thing. With it often comes a vertical crack at the expansion joints, which tend to be where the garage meets your home, and about midway down the sides.

If you see a hairline crack like these described, no more than 1/16 of an inch wide, don’t panic. These are not a sign of foundation trouble. Instead, the expansion joints are doing their job and preventing actual damage.

Signs of Serious Foundation Failure Indicating Safety Issues

Some cracks go beyond normal, and you can look for these signs. The first sign is foundation crack width. If the cracks are wide enough to measure beyond 1/16″, this indicates foundation movement that may be outside of normal range. Additionally, moisture entering the home becomes another concern.

Furthermore, if you see a diagonal crack it’s important to further inspect the property to know what you’re getting into.

Major Problems to Address to Safely Live in the Property

Structural Integrity: Do you see bowed walls or visibly see areas of a sinking foundation due to access to a crawl space? These are indications that a structural engineer get involved to determine the extent of the foundation problem, but more importantly, to determine if the house is safe to live in.

Uneven Floor: A shifting foundation slab can mean uneven floors. This can make it difficult to close doors, but also cause larger cracks where the drywall meets the floor and ceiling. If you are in a two story home, uneven floors below will only result in issues above. Again, have a structural engineer take a look at the house.

Water Damage: This becomes a concern not only due to water’s ability to damage wood and other materials that aren’t intended to come in contact with it, but also mold. Whenever cracks and spaces allow for water to enter the property, mold becomes a safety concern. Additionally, a resulting slab leak from a shifting slab may cause additional collateral damage to your home that you will wish to avoid.

Can You Safely Live in House With Foundation Problems?

If you currently reside in a home with the common foundation problems we discussed, it is likely safe to live there. However, most homeowners will find peace of mind by having a local foundation repair contractor inspect the property. This not only helps answer concerns about safety, but also the potential foundation repair cost.

Just know that calling a foundation contractor might not always result in an unbiased view, however. Their incentive is in found in the foundation repair cost itself. This is why we at Stratum enlist a 3rd party structural engineer if we believe the home’s issues go beyond the routine and common problems that can be dismissed.

Place the Safety of the Homeowner First

Do you already live in the home?

A sinking foundation that has been left untreated can ultimately cause tile and flooring to cave in or allow nasty bugs like termites to invade your home. Termites live in the ground, and can travel up through the walls once or twice a day. By leaving cracks in the foundation of your home, you are allowing for a termite highway to exist in the walls of your home. This can obviously cause even more structural damage in a completely new way, raising safety concerns for the homeowner.

Over time, these cracks, gaps, and fractures can become safety hazards for you and your family. Left ignored, a poorly constructed or damaged foundation can split wood, crack tile and create an environment that isn’t suitable for children or adults.

If the problem has persisted over a longer period of time, you might end up dealing with extreme cases of bowed walls or flooring, or large gaps in the floor of your home that can create expensive problems and further unsafe living conditions. The bottom line is that we don’t advise living in a house with foundation problems without first having them inspected.

Are you considering the home for purchase?

The most obvious threat of an unfixed foundation before you purchase is the cost that is associated with foundation repair which may be unknown to you.

There is no small cost when it comes to the actual foundation repair process if the problem has been allowed to persist for a long period of time. It’s likely that helical piers will be required beneath the slab foundation, and this can be a labor intensive process.

An unfixed foundation might start as a small crack in the wall, but it can soon spread around the house and begin to damage aesthetic portions of the home. This includes windows, doorways, crown molding, fixtures, walls and more. As these begin to be difficult to close, the potential expense rises with each foundation pier needs to be set.

Concerned About the Safety or Dangers of an Unfixed Foundation?

At stratum, we routinely help the homeowner avoid “worst case scenario.” We do this by providing an initial FREE inspection to identify and classify the foundation issues at hand. As mentioned, many of these are common and not a threat to safety or expensive repair costs.

We will also diagnose any serious problems that are of safety concern. As a foundation repair company, we will help recommend the best plan for your concrete slab, soil problems related to drainage, and settlement issues.

Foundation Problems Can Be Fixed!

It is incredibly important to contact a foundation repair contractor in a location near you AS SOON as you see a crack, hairline fracture or gap in the floor or walls of your home. An expert will be able to logically assess the damage and give you a better idea of a plan of action that is needed to create a safe, functional home once again.

Give us a call for a free inspection today: 214-683-2956

About Stratum Foundation Repair

Stratum Foundation Repair is a family owned company run by Ryan Hise . With several locations serving DFW , they can also be reached at their Plano location.

Soaker Hose Use in Dallas, Fort Woth, Plano, and Surrounding Areas

Another day in Dallas-Fort Worth…….another day of 100 degree heat……another day with no rain. As this Summer of 2011 turns into ground hog day I am often asked what a homeowner should be doing in regards to maintaining their homes foundation. The answer: Water the foundation. If you are from the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex then the idea of watering your foundation might not seem so strange. Want to see a dumbfounded look on someones face? Find someone new to the area and tell them they should “water their foundation”. They will definitely look at you like your crazy!

The #1 thing a homeowner can do to avoid foundation repairs is make use of soaker hoses. There are only a few set in stone rules regarding soaker hoses:

Notes

1- Do not connect multiple soaker hoses together(nothing over 50 ft). This will cause a loss of water pressure towards the end of the line thus leading to uneven watering.

2- Place the hose 12-18 inches from the foundation. DO NOT place the hose against the foundation – this will lead to the water collecting at the bottom of the foundation beam and destabilizing the foundation. It can also lead to deterioration of the concrete.. The idea is to swell the dirt back into the house. This can be accomplished by placing the hose the proper distance from the house.

The most obvious question at this point: How often should I run the soaker hose. This is trial and error and highly dependent on the weather. The goal is to keep the soil surrounding the foundation damp. Not muddy, damp. Also, make sure the water is not ponding. The soaker hose should be dispensing water at a slow enough rate that the soil can absorb the water in its entirety. If the water is ponding then reduce the frequency and or pressure with which you are watering. A quick test: Go outside and try to place your fingers between your foundation and the soil. Is there a space? If so then you aren’t watering enough. There should never be a space between the soil and the foundation.

The bottom line: Soaker hose use prevents foundation problems and may prevent you from needing foundation repairs. It may also correct existing foundation problems.

Soaker hoses are recommended for all of the Dallas – Fort Worth metroplex including Plano, Allen, McKinney, and Frisco.

Getting Your House Ready For Spring

Winter is over and flowers are blooming, with a new year and beautiful weather around the corner homeowners are in the initial stages of planning for their yearly spring cleaning. Before you start throwing your sweaters and jackets to the backs of closets, perhaps you should first consider preparing your house for the rainy and following dry seasons. For most people, spring chores include resurrecting their lawns and gardens. If done in addition to the aforementioned task you can cut down on the time and money invested towards your maintenance of your foundation.  With proper foundation maintenance you can stave off another brutal Texas summer and save yourself thousands of dollars in repairs.

Simple Tips to Get Your House Ready for Spring: Maintenance

Proper Drainage

During the rainiest season of the year for most of the country, it is especially important to focus your attention to your drainage. Poor drainage around your home’s foundation can leave a few minor and major problems with your property. For beginners you probably have noticed that poor drainage can be an eye sore for you and your neighbors. Not only that, but it can also become a safety concern. Standing water can become a breeding zone for mosquitos and mold. Taking care of a few things in relation to drainage will help protect you, your lawn, and help maintain the stabilization of your foundation.

First thing you will want to check is your home’s first defense against drainage, your gutters. Check to make sure all of your gutter’s pathways are free of debris. It might also be wise to consider gutter guards, a fairly easy DIY project that can dramatically cut down the frequency you will need to service your gutters. While inspecting your gutters, if you come across a section of your house that does not have gutters installed, check the soil near the slab. If it is dried and cracked away from slab, revealing below the skirt of the foundation, you should seriously consider installing gutters above this location. Check to make sure that all downspouts are connected and extend away from the building. Check that all concrete surfaces are not slanting towards the building so that no water can be directed under your foundation. Still have water pooling up, and standing beyond 48 hours? Look into french drain installation to move that water out to your curb. A small investment in your drainage now can pay dividends later in relation to your foundation.

Proper Watering

Now after reading the drainage section you might be thinking to yourself, “I thought water was good for my foundation.” This is both true and false. In this situation I refer you to a classic childhood fairy tale “Goldilocks and The Three Bears.” What we are looking for is the perfect amount of consistent water saturation around the entirety of the building. In order to achieve this, we must subtract and limit any unaccounted for watering. Once we have a blank state, we can begin a watering regiment that is best suited for both your landscaping and foundation.

The best method for watering your foundation is to install a soaker hose around the perimeter of your building. This is another fairly easy DIY project that your home and yard can benefit from greatly. Along with the hoses, you can also pick up some timers and splits for your outdoor water spigots. These will allow you to create a set and forget watering routine. Also keep in mind the part about consistency. For instance, your front might require more watering than the back and sides of your building, due to more landscaping. Also you sides might require less watering than your back, due to your neighbors sprinkler system reaching the side of your house. Try to notate any such factors when setting your timer and be ready to tweak it the first week or so. You don’t want to water so much that you have standing water and you don’t want to water so little that it’s being evaporated before it saturates the soil.

Proper Landscaping

Trees and large bushes are one of the leading factors that cause the structural integrity of your foundation to weaken. When it comes to landscaping, the most important factors are location and volume. We typically recommend keeping any bushes or trees that are higher than 4 feet tall more than 10 to 15 feet away from the foundation. Use bushes close to the house that require little water and maintenance. Trees are typically the biggest offenders when it comes to foundation problems. Trees, more specifically the roots of trees, can reach out towards and under the building and leach large amounts of water from the surrounding soil. It is important to keep the tree and bushes properly trimmed. If you suspect that a tree’s roots are close to the foundation of your building, you might consider having a root barrier installed in between the tree in question and your building.

Adding these hints, tips, and tricks to your honey-do list will definitely increase the lifetime of your foundation throughout the spring and the upcoming summer.

Stratum Foundation Repair provides residential and commercial foundation repair & root barriers to the Dallas Fort Worth metroplex. We have an “A+” rating on the Better Business Bureau with zero complaints. We strive ourselves on our customer service and would never let it get to point that you would even think of complaining. With over 13 years of experience we are committed to providing the absolute best service all the way around. For additional information about our company, products and services check out our website at www.StratumFoundationRepair.com or call us today for a FREE estimate at (214) 683-2956.

The Top 10 Mistakes In Foundation Repair Maintenance

1. Inconsistent Moisture Control

When using a moisture control system to water around the perimeter of your property, remember to account for anything that could lead to inconsistent moisture levels. Too much or too little moisture can cause the soil around the perimeter of your property to swell or shrink, respectively. When inconsistencies arise, you are more likely to see settlement in that particular area. Take into account concrete surfaces, landscaping, trees, run offs, down spouts and even your neighbors own watering habits.

2. Lack Of Rain Run Off Management

It is essential to allow rain to be directed away from your foundation. Inconsistent pooling near the slab can cause settlement issues in those areas. Use downspout extensions and underground tubing to move that water away from your house.

3. Improper Drainage Slope

It might not be enough to just have a drainage system installed. To ensure that all waste is able to pass through the drainage and no blockage can occur, it would be wise to have the drainage system slope away from your foundation at three inches every 5 feet. French drains around house are important, but you should also ensure the slope is adequate.

4. Directional Sprinkler Systems

When using a conventional sprinkler system, make sure you have heads that are also pointing towards the foundation. You don’t want to over water, but you do want to assure your foundation is getting watered regularly. If using a hose-end sprinkler, make sure you are using one that also drops water directly onto the ground rather than shoot it in the air.

5. Watering While Windy

Even wind can have an adverse effect on foundation settlement. While watering a decent breeze can cause a sprinkler system to not hit its mark. If it is noticeably windy outside, change the timer or delay watering until it dies down.

6. Watering Mid Day

The hotter it gets outside, the faster water can evaporate. If you are watering when the sun is out, there isn’t enough time for the water to soak into the ground to help stabilize the foundation. Try watering when it’s the coolest outside, like at night or in the morning.

7. Landscaping Too Close To The House

Plants require much more water than homeowner think. By placing too many or a certain plant in the wrong place can leave the ground in that area undersaturated. Believe it or not, but a simple oak tree can drink up to 100 gallons of water in a day. Make sure large trees are further from the house than their roots can reach. This will help avoid future foundation problems.

8. Soaker Hose Location

Placing a soaker hose up against the skirt of the slab can cause water to seep under the slab or cause it to evaporate too soon. Try placing your hose 12-18 inches away from the slab and 3 inches below the surface.

9. Believing Rain Is A Solution

Many People believe that rain is a means to an end and forget to keep up with their maintenance programs. However since it is dry most of the year, rain can actually be a catalyst to bigger problems. What expands must then contract back to its normal state. Remember to maintain your moisture levels even after a storm.

10. Ignoring Warning Signs

Don’t assume that any new crack, separation, door or window that doesn’t close is because of “normal settlement.” It is important to have a professional access whether or not these new cracks are going to get bigger. If you wait till they are, you will end up with more expensive repairs.

 

If after addressing these common mistakes you still are seeing movement, contact Stratum Foundation Repair today for an expert technician to come by to give you a FREE estimate to repair your home.

 

Case Study: Foundation Problem or Drainage Issue?

Homeowners almost always assume they need foundation repair when they are seeing symptoms of movement and settlement to their home. A good foundation repair company will work hard to determine the cause of the movement so that they can design the proper solution, which oftentimes doesn’t actually involve any foundation repair. Stratum was recently consulted and contracted to help eliminate excessive movement of home foundations in the DallasFort Worth area. What follows is a case study of how that process unfolded, with special attention given to proper house foundation drainage.

THE PROBLEM | Part 1 of a 4 Part Series

In Corinth, Texas, a single story residential property built in 1993 was suffering from excessive foundation movement. The excessive movement was causing many of the same results we see around the Dallas – Fort Worth area, things like sheet rock cracks, brick cracks, cracks in crown molding, doors and windows out of alignment, etc. A trained eye can tell based on the orientation of various cracks which part of the house is lower. When visually observing the cracks and other symptoms it became apparent to us these issues were not being caused by the typical foundation problems in Texas, which is settlement of the perimeter beam. The cracks and out of aligned doors made it obvious to us that the interior of the home was actually lower than the perimeter of the home. This belief was confirmed when we took floor elevations using a Zip level. Our measurements revealed the perimeter of the home to be 1-3 inches higher than the interior. These measurements are relative to one another and have no true baseline. All we were able to say at this point was that the interior was lower than the perimeter. We could not conclusively say whether the interior was sinking or the perimeter was raising. We would need to investigate further to try and determine the cause of the distress, as well as find the proper solution.

Next we will reveal what our investigation turned up.

THE INVESTIGATION | Part 2 of a 4 Part Series

The typical foundation settlement we see in the Dallas – Fort Worth area is settlement around the perimeter of the home. This is due to the ever changing moisture content around the outside of the home. North Texas weather patterns tend to leave us in a perpetual state of drought. This lack of moisture causes the perimeter of homes to sink, or settle. Under this typical scenario, we are called out to follow our foundation repair process under the exterior beam of the home to prevent any further sinking, and when possible raise the home back to its “as built position.”

It is much rarer that we deal with interior settlement. Moisture content beneath the middle of the home should stay relatively consistent throughout the year as the soil underneath the home is not exposed to the weather. However, we do occasionally come across a house that is lower in the middle relative to the perimeter. The question then becomes, “Is the middle of the home sinking….or is the perimeter raising, or heaving?” There are several things that can cause the interior of the home to sink, but the most frequent thing we see causing this scenario is large trees planted too close to the home. The roots grow beneath the home, thus depleting the otherwise stable moisture content beneath the home. Other factors that cause excess movement under the interior of a home are plumbing leaks. While a plumbing leak will generally result in upwards movement due to excess moisture being released beneath the house there are cases where the leak can cause soil to wash out and erode, which can result in interior settlement.

Much like with interior settlement there are many factors that can cause the perimeter of a home to heave(old piers heaving, improper drainage, etc.). Generally if the perimeter of the foundation is heaving it is because there is too much moisture collecting around the foundation, and this is generally due to improper drainage around house foundation.

Now then, back to the house under investigation…..

To restate: Visual cues, along with Zip Level readings, indicated to us that the interior of the home was lower relative to the perimeter. The question was why, as well as the afore mentioned, “Is the interior sinking, or the perimeter heaving?” Step one was to have a plumber out to verify there were no leaks under the slab. After having a hydrostatic pressure test performed on the sewer line as well as a check performed on the fresh water line we were able to rule out that a plumbing leak was the cause of the movement we were seeing. A visual inspection was able to verify that no trees or other vegetation were deemed to be too close to the home or otherwise detrimental to the performance of the foundation.

Poor Drainage around house foundationHouse Foundation Drainage

What became apparent while observing the conditions around the house was that there was very poor drainage around the house foundation. The home had no grading that would allow the water to run away from the home. Furthermore the house had gutters, but the downspouts simply dumped the water right along the perimeter of the home. There was nowhere for excess moisture to drain after rainfall or yard watering. This problem was easily observed after viewing the house one afternoon following heavy rainfall. Water gathered and pooled alongside the house with nowhere to go. It became obvious that the most likely cause of the foundation problem was upheaval around the perimeter caused by poor drainage. The solution would therefore involve finding a way to rectify the poor drainage around foundation, and eliminate the excess moisture around the home. This is the best way to avoid the future need for Plano foundation repair, or any other city across DFW.

Our next installment will reveal our solution as well as detail the installation process.

THE SOLUTION | Part 3 of a 4 Part Series

At this point we knew that both sides of the home needed proper foundation drainage. While both sides of the home had drainage issues the solution would vary slightly. The North side of the property is being harmed due to runoff from the neighboring yard, causing water to pool and stagnate. On the South side both this lot and the neighbor’s lot are level resulting in less total accumulation, but still problematic due to the flat grading not allowing for runoff. The goal is to take the excess water on both sides of the home and move it to the street. On the North side we opted to install a french drain due to the fact that the north side is seeing the most water. The excess water pooling means that the soil has already soaked up as much as it can. (Special Note: if you use a soaker hose for foundation, make sure your watering schedule is adjusted to excess rainfall.) A french drain will help against the pooling as well as pull the excess moisture out of the soil. On the south side there isn’t as much pooling, so we were able to install an area drain and connect the existing gutter downspouts to the drain system. Utilizing both french drains and area drains would allow both sides of the property to stabilize and maintain a more uniform moisture content.

Drain Definitions: The Two Main Options For Drainage Problems Around the House

What is a french draingA French Drain collects water along the entire area in which it is installed. A French drain is a trench filled with gravel or rock, or containing a perforated pipe that redirects surface water and groundwater away from an area. A French drain can have perforated hollow pipes along the bottom to quickly vent water that seeps down through the upper gravel or rock. French drains are primarily used to prevent ground and surface water from penetrating or damaging building foundations.(wikipedia)

 

What is an area drainAn Area Drain is different from a French drain in that it only collects water in selected areas designated by the installation of catch basins. Typically these basins are installed every 10-15 feet apart down the affected area. This type of drain is generally installed when water saturation is limited to specific locations. Solid drainage pipe is used in the installation of area drains to discharge away from the area of saturation.

 

Fixing the Drainage Around House Foundations:

Are you unsure of which type of drainage solution is best to facilitate the drainage around foundation? We can help. Let us take a look at your property situation, and advise you on the best solution that is right for you. Contact Stratum today:  214-683-2956

Installation Process:

Area Drain

Below are images showing an area drain used to fix drainage issues around the house.

What is an area drain

 

 

Remember, an area drain has water grates at set places or “areas” where water tends to pool. You can see identify this is as an area drain in this Dallas area home by spotting the green grate to correct drainage around the house in the problem area.

French Drain

The below images show why french drains outside the house are commonly used in the Dallas area. Water can enter through small holes all along the pipe, providing the most surface area to channel water away from the property. This is one reason why french drain installation in Dallas is on the rise.

What is a french draing

 

 

 

If you are considering french drain installation for proper drainage around your foundation, get in touch for a free estimate. We will also take a look at your overall house foundation drainage to confirm it’s the best option for you.

RESULTS: Proper Drainage Around Foundation |

Part 4 of a 4 Part Series

It has been several months since we have completed the drainage installation. We have experienced near record rainfall since the installation of the drains so we were excited to inspect the drainage to make sure that it was performing as intended. As you can see in the picture the ground is definitely not holding as much water as before. The measurements are also starting to creep down towards normal levels, although it can take many seasons for them to get back to where they need to be.

Before: Poor Drainage around house foundation                  After:

With the long term drought that we have been in over the last several years most people don’t realize the amount of shrinkage in the soil that has taken place over that time. One good week or month of rain can cause that soil to expand rapidly. It is the inconsistency in the moisture levels from the interior to the perimeter that can cause cosmetic and structural damage to the house. We see this routinely all across DFW, causing the need for foundation repair in Dallas, all the way North to Allen, McKinney, and Frisco. We urge everyone to take a look outside the next time it rains and see if you notice any standing water next to the house, or if you notice any small hairline cracks pop up after a good rain. These can be signs of foundation problems, and it might be your house trying to tell you that your drainage isn’t up to par.

If you believe you might have a drainage problem give Stratum a call and we’ll send out an inspector to give you a FREE evaluation!

Call Today: 214-683-2956

Spot Signs of Foundation Problems in Plano TX

7 Signs Your Home’s Foundation is Failing

The foundation is one of the most important components of your home. Walls, rooms, insulation, furniture and more are all located on top of foundation, so it is crucial that the foundation of a home is laid correctly. Even the best-laid foundation can be shifted by the elements and disturbed by growing urban landscapes.

What to Look for When Inspecting Your Foundation

Good news for homeowners; the signs that your foundation is failing are usually fairly obvious and can be easily found and inspected by a foundation expert. Want to know if your foundation is failing? Keep reading below.

  1. Uneven floors – Uneven and sloping floors are clear signs that a foundation is failing. Walls can slope away from the floor, producing cracks and gaps between baseboards, tile, hardwood, concrete and carpeting. This can happen after flooding, from a burst pipe or other environmental factors.
  2. Exterior and interior hairline cracks – Clearly visible to the naked eye, hairline cracks on the interior or exterior of a home is another obvious sign that there is trouble below. Cracks can exist in the middle of bricks and mortar, near doors and floors as well as anywhere on the exterior of a home or building.
  3. Cracked molding – Much like hairline cracks that are visible on the exterior and interior of homes, cracked molding can be a sign that the foundation of a home is in trouble. This can be seen through a separation of crown molding, baseboards shifting and cracks running the length of molding to the ceiling.
  4. Cracks in tile- This is a concerning circumstance for homeowners. If the home is occupied cracks in tile can expose the damaged foundation below. Cracks in foundations are also visible from the outside of the home and can run from short to long lengths.
  5. Doors and windows that become stuck- When you find yourself heaving and pushing a door or window open to no avail you might have a problem with the foundation. As the base of the home shifts so do structures like door frames and window sills.
  6. Complete separation- Complete separation of walls, doors, windows and garages can occur in severe foundation disruption. This, in part, is due to the material that is impacted as well as the severity of the failing foundation. Cracks and gaps are obvious and should be treated immediately.
  7. Separation of walls- Walls made of brick, concrete, stucco and other materials are all susceptible to affects caused by foundation failure, including cracks and gaps. This can be seen when walls separate from one another.

The Next Step

When you find a crack it is important that a foundation repair contractor in Plano be called right away as the problem will only get worse as time passes. Yearly environmental conditions such as flooding and drought are two main environmental factors that impact the integrity of your home’s foundation. If you see or sense a problem it is crucial that you call a foundation repair specialist today to get repairs going.

About Company

Stratum Foundation Repair, the highly regarded company for Foundation Repair in Plano TX, is owned by Ryan Hise. With several DFW locations, they can be reached at their Plano location.

Stratum Foundation Repair
Stratum is a family owned foundation repair company serving Plano, TX and the surrounding area. We can help you diagnose house settling issues, drainage problems, and fix your foundation problems right the first time.
101 E Park Blvd STE 600
Plano
TX
75074
USA

Follow Stratum Foundation Repair on Social Media
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A Visual Guide to Understanding Foundation Problems

5 Common Causes of Foundation Problems

We had this amazing infographic designed as a handy reference for property owners in Plano and the Dallas-Fort Worth area highlighting potential areas of concern that can lead to foundation failure.

 

 

Key Takeaways

  1. Most Foundation Problems Begin with Water and Moisture Issues
  2. Property Owners can reduce the chance of foundation problems by ensuring the abutting ground has the proper slope and grade to direct water away from the foundation

About Company

Stratum Foundation Repair, the highly regarded company for Foundation Repair in Plano TX, is owned by Ryan Hise. With several DFW locations, they can be reached at their Plano location.

Stratum Foundation Repair

 

Stratum is a family owned foundation repair company serving Plano, TX and the surrounding area. We can help you diagnose settling issues, house drainage problems, and fix your foundation problems right the first time.
101 E Park Blvd STE 600
Plano
TX
75074
USA

Follow Stratum Foundation Repair on Social Media
Google +
YouTube
Facebook
Twitter

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