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9 Common Types of Foundation Problems

Table of Contents


1. Causes Of Foundation Problems
2. Signs You Might Have A Foundation Problem
3. Repair Solutions For Foundation Problems

Since most foundations in California are simple concrete slab foundations, many homeowners may not think that their homes are in too much danger of developing serious foundation problems. There are, however, some common foundation problems that can affect slab foundations, like those found in California.

Because the foundation supports the entire structure and is such an integral part of a home, it is essential to have these problems repaired as soon as they are located. Leaving a foundation problem alone for an extended period will only make the problem even more severe. Also, neglecting to repair a foundation problem immediately can lead to more expensive and complicated repairs.

In this article, we explain the most common types of foundation problems you’ll encounter, what causes them, and how Bay Area Underpinning can help restore your home with customized foundation repair solutions.

wall cracks and sticking door

Causes Of Foundation Problems

Most foundation problems are a result of the shifting soil underneath the foundation. The soil underneath a foundation can shift for various reasons, including:

wet, expansive soil
  • Expansive soil – If there is an abnormal amount of rain in the area you live in, expansive soil will absorb more water, causing the hydrostatic pressure in the soil to increase. If this pressure becomes too much for the foundation to handle, it will shift or crack from the stress.
  • Soil erosion – Another cause of foundation failure is erosion. When water erodes the soil beneath a foundation, it causes voids to form, meaning that the soil can no longer adequately support areas of the foundation. This will result in the settling or sinking of the foundation.
  • Soil shrinkage – The same thing can happen when voids form due to soil shrinkage, which can occur in dry conditions with a severe lack of rain.
  • Inadequate soil compaction – Foundation failure can also result from poor compaction at the time of construction. If the soil was not appropriately packed when your house was built, it will eventually settle and shift, causing the foundation to do the same.

For more information, see Foundation Settlement.

Signs You Might Have A Foundation Problem

Signs you might have a foundation problem include:

crack in foundation wall near window

Foundation problems are serious issues that should be addressed as soon as they are discovered. You will want to catch foundation issues early before they turn into big problems that will cost a lot of money to fix.

To keep your home safe, inspect it regularly, keeping these common signs in mind as you examine the foundation and other areas. If you notice any issues forming in your home, contact a foundation repair specialist at Bay Area Underpinning immediately.

Repair Solutions For Foundation Problems

To fix your foundation problems, Bay Area Underpinning offers a variety of foundation stabilization, leveling, and underpinning services. Underpinning is a process used to lift your foundation and provide stabilization. This is usually done by installing foundation piers. Piers like these, such as push piers or slab piers, are driven deep underground into the stable soil beneath the layer of shifting soil that is causing the foundation problems.

Helical piers are another type of foundation pier commonly used for foundation leveling. They work similar to push piers, except instead of being driven into the ground, they are screwed in to provide extra stabilization.

By using these affordable and non-invasive foundation stabilization methods, Bay Area Underpinning can save you time and money on your foundation repair needs.

It is important to have any foundation issues repaired immediately to prevent further damage or foundation failure. Our specially trained team will work with you to find the best solution for your foundation repair needs. Contact us today to schedule a free inspection and estimate.

Ted Dryce

Ted Dryce

Content Writer

Ted is an SEO Content Writer who has been with Groundworks since 2021. He’s covered home repair topics ranging from crawl space encapsulation to regional soil conditions. When he’s not working, Ted is performing improv comedy and working on his own creative projects.

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