How Soil Moisture Levels Affect Your Foundation
Clay soil in this area of Texas is considered “expansive.” That means it will expand and shrink as water absorbs or leaves the dirt, respectively. If you have an unexpectedly rainy day without grading your foundation to drain excess moisture away from below quickly enough when surface-level clay has room to absorb all that comes its way–as these soils often do after heavy rains because their grade isn’t high enough–the weight may cause significant damage not just against homes but also buildings such as schools whose foundations rest directly on top of one type or another!.
Clay soil’s high water content can be a major factor when it comes to a foundation’s performance and longevity. Texas has a prevalent type of clay soil in the Gulf Coast region that is usually found near rivers, bayous and streams. These areas are more susceptible to erosion from rainfall, making them prime targets for flooding during heavy storms, which is worsened by the presence of clay soil!
The foundation under a home is responsible for the stability and safety of the structure.
The foundation under a home is responsible for the stability and safety of the structure
The foundation under a home is responsible for the stability and safety of the structure.
The most common type of foundation is concrete, which needs to have enough space around it to allow for any settlement that may occur as time passes. A correctly built concrete slab should also contain steel reinforcing bars that are placed in every foot or so along each side. This will help ensure that the slab doesn’t crack from either thermal expansion or contraction due to weather changes over time.
If you live in an area with clay soil like many homes do in Dallas-Fort Worth Texas, then your slab must also include a waterproofing membrane beneath it to prevent water from seeping in and causing the soil to expand and contract as well.
Signs of clay soil foundation problems
If you live in an area with clay soil like many homes do in Dallas-Fort Worth Texas, then your slab must also include a waterproofing membrane beneath it to prevent water from seeping in and causing the soil to expand and contract as well.
Signs of clay soil foundation problems can include:
- Cracks in the foundation or along the exterior walls of the house
- Doors and windows that are difficult to open or close
- Uneven floors or walls inside the home
- Mold or mildew on the walls or ceilings of the basement
- Structural damage to the floor, walls and ceilings of the basement
- The house shifting or moving
What can you do?
If your home has clay soil problems then you need to call a professional for help. The right kind of water drainage around your foundation will ensure that your home is safe for years to come.
Don’t wait until it’s too late to take action, because the consequences could be disastrous. Have a foundation inspection performed, ideally by a structural engineer. Protecting your home with a solid foundation is one of the most important things you can do!
It is very important to have your home inspected for any possible foundation problems before it’s too late.