Foundation Damage 101

There are several contributing factors to foundation damage, and Master Services has seen them all. Some are common and unavoidable, while others come down to negligence on the part of contractors.

Not all soils are made the same. They range from sandy to silty, from clay-based to a combination of all three. In the case of clay-based soils, drought causes the soil to contract. Too much rain or moisture, and the soil expands. Both of these conditions can cause disruption to a house’s foundation.

In places where there are heavy seasonal rains, floods, or leaks, soil is certain to retain moisture and expand. Particularly in East Tennessee, where we are prone to heavy and prolonged rains during the winter and spring seasons, rain can cause major structural damage. Rain and flooding also wash away supporting soils, leading to settlement and other issues.

In other cases, poor workmanship and inattention create damaging conditions for structures. Many contractors will use inadequate or defective materials during construction. These will deteriorate over time, providing opportunity for moisture to enter and cause damage. Porous concrete or mortar soak up moisture like sponges, and window wells, landscaping, and other features may provide an entry point for water.

During construction of your home, the builder removed soil to create room for your home’s foundation. Once building was completed, soil was added to the area surrounding the foundation. Improper placement and uneven filling might have meant that the back-filled soil shifted around your home, causing pressure that led to damage.

The Master Services team has years of experience fixing foundation and settlement problems in East Tennessee. If you notice cracked interior and exterior walls, sagging floors, creaky floors, fractured brick, and other signs of damage, contact us for a free, no-obligation estimate.