5 Ways Homeowners Damage Their Home Foundation

5 Ways Homeowners Damage Their Home Foundation

There are several causes of foundation damage. Unfortunately, in some cases, homeowners make mistakes that can create major headaches and require significant foundation repair.

Here are five typical ways that homeowners damage their foundations – and how to prevent them:

1. Overwatering the lawn. In North Texas, most homes sit atop expansive soils. When a great deal of moisture is present, the soil expands. When the soil becomes dry, it contracts. This heaving and swelling creates movement under and around the foundation, potentially resulting in damage. In Texas, periods of drought and unpredictable weather often lead homeowners to overwater, which can cause rapid swelling of the soil. Instead of reacting to particular weather periods, use a programmable sprinkler system to provide a consistent water level year-round. Make adjustments in timing based on the season.
   

   One sure way for homeowners to ask for foundation trouble is over-watering their yard

2. Bad drainage. If water is allowed to stand near your home’s foundation, it can create serious foundation problems. Ensure that the soil is graded near your home, leading water away from the foundation. Plant beds around the foundation should be graded, and at least 2 to 4 inches of concrete should show below your brick or siding. In addition, gutters should remain clear, and water should be guided away from the home. Finally, when rainwater runs down the graded soil away from your home, it should be directed to the curb via drainage channels called swales.
3. Cozy landscaping. Bushes and trees should not be planted too closely to the foundation, for two reasons. First, if they require extensive watering, and then drink the water from the soil, the moisture levels in the ground next to your foundation will not be consistent. Secondly, trees and large shrubs can have invasive root systems which burrow into the foundation, or steal water from soil beneath the home. Plant small bushes at least 3 feet away from the foundation, and larger shrubs at least 5 feet away. Keep trees at least 10 feet or more away, depending upon their size.
4. Poor swimming pool installation. Some small amount of water will always seep from the pool, making an adequate distance from the home very important. If a swimming pool is not properly waterproofed, water can seep through the pool and into the surrounding soil, putting significant pressure on the home’s foundation. Ensure that waterproofing is done right.
5. Interior remodeling. Adding rooms, subtracting walls and making other design changes to the home affects the performance of the slab. If the weight of the house is shifted, this can cause major damage. Before any significant construction project, discuss the impacts with your contractor to ensure that the foundation will handle your new design.