Sinking Foundation

A sinking foundation can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. It compromises the structural integrity of your home and poses safety risks. In this article, we will explore the signs of a sinking foundation, its causes, and the importance of promptly addressing the issue. We will also discuss effective solutions for repairing a sinking foundation, ensuring the stability of your home for years to come.

What is a Sinking Foundation?

A sinking foundation occurs when the ground underneath a building’s foundation settles or moves, resulting in an uneven sinking of the foundation. This can lead to a range of structural problems that demand immediate action.

Signs of a Sinking Foundation

1.  Sticking Doors and Windows:

Doors and windows that suddenly become difficult to open or close may indicate a sinking foundation. The shifting foundation can cause the frames to warp, making it challenging to operate these fixtures smoothly.

2. Floor Cracks:

Cracks in your flooring, especially in concrete, tiles, or hardwood, can be a result of a sinking foundation. As the foundation settles, it can create stress on the flooring materials, leading to visible cracks.

3. Cracked or Tilting Chimney:

A sinking foundation can affect the stability of your chimney, leading to visible cracks or a tilting structure. These signs should never be ignored, as they indicate a severe foundation problem.

4. Uneven Floors:

If you notice that your floors are no longer level and have become uneven, it could be a sign of a sinking foundation. Sloping or sagging floors are a clear indication that the foundation has shifted, causing the floors to lose their stability.

5. Cracked Exterior Bricks:

Cracks in the exterior bricks of your home can be a sign of a sinking foundation. As the foundation sinks, it exerts pressure on the walls, causing them to crack. Keep an eye out for wide cracks, stairstep cracks, or cracks that seem to grow over time.

What Causes a Sinking Foundation?

Understanding the causes of a sinking foundation is crucial in preventing further damage. Here are some common factors that contribute to a sinking foundation:

Soil Expansion

Changes in soil moisture content can cause the soil beneath your foundation to expand or contract. This movement can lead to the foundation sinking or settling unevenly.

Poor Drainage

Improper drainage around your home can result in water pooling near the foundation. Over time, this excess moisture can weaken the soil, causing the foundation to sink.

Insufficient Compaction

Insufficient compaction of the soil during construction can cause future settlement problems for your foundation. When the soil is not properly compacted, it loses its ability to support the weight of your home, leading to a sinking foundation.

Clay Soils

Clay soils are prone to expanding and contracting with changes in moisture content. This movement can exert pressure on the foundation, causing it to sink or settle unevenly. Clay soil is common in North Carolina, so even with proper building processes, this problem can be inevitable.

Nearby Trees

Trees planted too close to your home can eventually cause a sinking foundation. The roots of these trees can absorb moisture from the soil, leading to soil shrinkage and foundation settlement.

Can You Fix a Sinking Foundation?

Yes, a sinking foundation can be fixed. It is crucial to consult with a professional foundation repair company to assess the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate solutions. Ignoring a sinking foundation can lead to further structural issues and costly repairs down the line.

How to Repair a Sinking Foundation

We use three effective methods for repairing a sinking foundation. Here are three common solutions our foundation repair specialists employ:

Push Piers

Push piers are steel piers driven deep into the ground beneath the foundation to stabilize and lift the sinking foundation. This method is ideal for addressing settlement issues caused by weak or unstable soil. 

Helical Piers

Helical piers are similar to push piers but have attached helical plates. These plates help distribute the foundation’s weight evenly, providing additional stability and preventing further sinking.

Slab Piers

Slab piers are specifically designed to repair sinking concrete slab foundations. They are installed beneath the foundation to lift and stabilize it, preventing further settlement.

Why Address Sinking Foundations Now

Addressing a sinking foundation promptly is crucial to prevent further damage and costly repairs. Ignoring the problem can lead to structural issues that compromise the safety and value of your home. By seeking professional foundation repair services, you can ensure the stability of your home and avoid more extensive and expensive repairs in the future.

Contact Dry Pro for Sinking Foundation Solutions

If you suspect a sinking foundation in your North Carolina home, don’t hesitate to contact Dry Pro Foundation & Crawlspace Specialists for a free inspection. Our team of experienced professionals specializes in foundation repair and can provide effective solutions tailored to your specific needs. Protect your home by addressing foundation issues today.