4 Misconceptions About Foundation Repair
A house’s foundation is what keeps everything solid and study, but what happens when you start finding cracks in the foundation? Over time and sometimes due to certain factors, foundation can weaken. This can be a little unnerving since the foundation is such a big and important part of your home. However, there is a lot of misconceptions about why foundation repair becomes necessary.
Let us help clear up a few of the myths you may have heard about foundation repair.
1) The Foundation Itself Is Not The Problem
Often it is not the foundation itself, but the soil underneath that is the problem. This can cause a lot of confusion, but foundations don’t actual move unless the soil underneath is. Which means that if the foundation is cracking or having other issues, the soil is often the problem.
2) Water Is Actual A Big Part Of The Problem
A slab foundation will follow the movement of the soil. However, the soil only moves when it is hydrating or desiccating. Put simply, when the soil gets wet it expands and as it dries out it shrinks or compacts. Of course it is impractical and impossible to isolate your house from rain, so even hydration of the soil is the key.
3) Voids Are Also Not The Problem
Often customers ask if we fill the voids under the slabs once the foundation is lifted. Much like pier and beam construction, the load is on the beams. Concrete slabs usually have a thick beam around the exterior and in a grid pattern through the interior. The weight of your house rests primarily on these beams.
4) Cracks Won’t Tell You Where The Problem Is
Often homes with foundation movement will manifest cracks. Sometimes these cracks are small and hard to see. Other times, these cracks are large and hard to miss. A crack in the foundation is a hinge. Or in other words, a relief point for movement in the slab. However, the issue is rarely where the crack is.
If you believe that your home needs foundation repair, don’t hesitate to call the professionals at AAAction Waterproofing. We would love to help you with all of your foundation repair and waterproofing needs. Contact us today to find out more about what we can do for you!