Houston, Texas, a vibrant and thriving city, is unfortunately plagued by a common problem that affects many homeowners: foundation issues. Understanding the causes behind these problems is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of your home. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top five surprising causes of foundation issues in Houston, Texas, offering you valuable insights and knowledge to protect your most significant investment. The most surprising cause of foundation issues is #5!
1. Expansive Clay Soils
Houston’s unique soil composition, characterized by expansive clay soils, is the leading cause of foundation problems in the region. These clay soils can undergo significant volume changes due to moisture fluctuations, resulting in the expansion and contraction of the ground beneath your home’s foundation. In some areas the soils expand and contract up to 6 inches throughout the year! During droughts, the soil around your foundation can shrink and lose moisture, causing it to contract. This contraction can result in significant soil movement and foundation settlement (downward movement).
2. Poor Drainage
Improper drainage is another significant contributor to foundation issues. Houston’s heavy rainfall can cause water to accumulate around the foundation, leading to soil saturation. This excess moisture weakens the soil’s load-bearing capacity, causing the foundation to settle unevenly. Insufficient gutter systems, improper grading, and inadequate drainage solutions exacerbate this problem. Poor drainage most commonly causes upward movement or what’s referred to as heaving.
3. Subsurface Plumbing Leaks
Hidden plumbing leaks beneath the surface can wreak havoc on your foundation. Over time, leaking pipes can saturate the soil, causing the foundation to heave upward near the plumbing leak. Undetected leaks can lead to erosion, soil consolidation, and ultimately, foundation issues. Regular foundation inspections and hydrostatic tests are the best way to detect latent plumbing leakage.
4. Tree Roots
Houston’s lush vegetation adds beauty to the city but can also contribute to foundation issues. The roots of large trees can extend far beyond their canopy, seeking water sources beneath the ground. As these roots grow and expand, they exert pressure on the foundation, causing it to shift and crack. Chances are that if a home has oak trees, it’s almost always settling towards those oak trees.
5. Foundation Repair Can Cause Additional Problems
Ironically, improper foundation repair techniques can sometimes exacerbate existing foundation problems or create new ones. Inadequate methods or materials used during repairs may fail to address the underlying issues, leading to recurring problems or additional damage to the foundation. The most common side-effect of foundation repair is interior settlement caused by underpinning the perimeter without addressing the cause of the foundation issue such as tree roots. When you underpin the foundation the “repaired” portion of the foundation is lifted off of the expansive soil but the remaining “unrepaired” portion of the foundation still sets on the ever moving expansive clay soils! Foundation repair can also cause below ground plumbing leaks. It is crucial to hire experienced and reputable foundation repair professionals to ensure the proper diagnosis and implementation of effective solutions. “Cheap” foundation repair companies are typically cheaper because they do half the work the home really needs or they just don’t do it right at all.
Conclusion: Annual Foundation Inspections are a Must
Foundation issues can be a homeowner’s nightmare, but understanding their causes is the first step toward prevention and effective solutions. Whether it’s the expansive clay soils, poor drainage, drought conditions, subsurface plumbing leaks, or the presence of tree roots, being aware of these top five causes will empower you to take proactive measures to safeguard your home’s foundation in Houston, Texas. Remember, early detection and professional intervention are vital to preserving the structural integrity of your most significant investment. Your best chance to maintain your foundation is to maintain consistent moisture levels around your home.
When it comes to the foundation of your home, it’s essential to prioritize accuracy, objectivity, and expertise in inspections. While free inspections offered by foundation repair companies may seem appealing, they often come with hidden agendas that can compromise the integrity of the evaluation. By choosing an unbiased foundation specialist like Imperial Pro Inspection, homeowners in Houston, Texas can ensure that their foundation receives a thorough, accurate, and unbiased assessment. This approach will help you make informed decisions about any necessary repairs or preventive measures, safeguarding the long-term value and structural integrity of your home.