The cracks are small and are vertical going from bottom to top of wall, through a window. The foundation is a concrete block design. Was told that it was caused by poor drainage. Why can't I just fix the drainage? These piers cost over 2k to install, if it can wait a year I would be in a better position to do it.
2006-12-20 06:52:27 · 5 answers · asked by Curtis W 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
Foundation problems only get worse with time, not better. Spend some now, or more later. It is up to you. But it is necessary to correct the situation.
2006-12-20 06:54:46 · answer #1 · answered by Blunt Honesty 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Foundation issues get worse over time, IF THE PROBLEM IS NOT CORRECTED. If the cracks are from drainage issues, repair the drainage, seal the cracks and monitor. All houses settle, its just a question of how much. And there are many factors that will influence the settlement, e.g: adequate drainage, soil conditions, gutters, etc. If the cracks are less than 1/8" and are on the same plane, it is most likely not a huge problem.
I would suggest a foundation expert assess the situation and follow his/her recommendations. Good luck.
2006-12-20 08:11:39 · answer #2 · answered by tim r 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would get a second opinion. If it is just settlement, then there may be no reason for the piers at all. All foundations crack to some degree. Small cracks may be a result of uneven watering near the foundation. If you have one side of your house that traps water (the poor drainage side), watering the drier soil around you foundation may help close those small cracks.
When the dry soil absorbs the water, it swells, and may lift your foundation enough to close the cracks. We get that a lot in my area. So often that the foundation firms offer that advice on the radio in their commercials.
2006-12-20 06:57:27 · answer #3 · answered by Steve H 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
YES I live in an area the land is dry and is settling all of the time. I have to keep soaker hoses around my foundation year round. I also 28 piers under my foundation. I have already spent over $30,000 on a 34 year old house.
2006-12-20 07:42:46 · answer #4 · answered by Chillin-it 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You could have someone check and see if your building will be stable enough to make it for a year and possibly could be alright. I don't think anyone here can truly answer your question unless they actually see it in person.
I think eventually from what you have described you will have to do something. That is the Problem with Concrete Block Construction or like in old farmhouses with Rock Foundations they nearly all tend to leak and will move. Especially with Concrete Block. Your footing might not be Deep enough below Frost line or your ground is spongy expanding and contracting...
Good Luck Sorry to hear of your troubles!!!
2006-12-20 07:03:54 · answer #5 · answered by Scott 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋