Question:what can an individual do to prevent foundation damage to their home?

Question

Question:I was wondering what and individual can do to prevent foundation damage to their home and what corrective actions can be taken.

In regards to: Currently I own a home in San Anotnio which I have been told the soil looks as though it is settling and had been advised to possibly call an engineer.

Thank you!

Jason

Answer 1

How old is the house? If it's new, it's normal for the soil to settle near the house. I had an addition added to my house, and the soil settled over 6 inches near the basement wall.

You can prevent a lot of damage by making sure that water drains away from the house. The soil should slope away from the house, not towards it. Downspouts should channel water away from the house too. Be sure that it doesn't collect near the wall and seep down along it.

Look on the inside of the basement to see if there is any damage. Are the walls Bowed in? Is there any cracking? Are there any places where water collects and puddles near the wall? Those are the places where damage is possible. Call a home inspector if you suspect you have a problem.

Answer 2

Not being a professional, I advise you to call a engineer. Water can "wash" away the foundation ground. Is the a water line around ?
Many times building a defense dam or draining the adjacent soils, can solve things.

But there might exist other causes, unknown caves or wells, animal excavations, under quality materials in the foundation lines, etc. Call a professional, mean wild put some plaster ribbons in the visible cracks like a band aid, let them dry. If they crack again the "destructing motion" is active.

Answer 3

Make sure all drainage is away and no tree roots are getting too close .

Answer 4

MOST OF YOUR STUFF IS ON ROCK....THEY HAVE TO BLAST MAY TIMES TO SET FORMS! - IF DIRT, GET FREE ESTIMATES FROM FOUNDATION COMPANIES, & ASK IF THEY'VE DON MANY IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD!