The Impact of Drought on Your Home's Foundation
Identifying signs of foundation settlement may not always be easy at first glance. Foundations tend to settle gradually, so it's not immediately noticeable from a distance. However, uneven settlement can cause various symptoms throughout the structure, such as sticking windows and doors, sagging floors, floor or ceiling gaps, drywall cracks, interior cracks near window or door frames, separating chimneys, and stair-step cracks in brick or block walls. If you struggle to open a window, it may be a result of foundation issues occurring beneath the surface.
Ignoring foundation problems is not advisable as they tend to worsen over time and can become more expensive to repair. Fortunately, there are permanent solutions available.
One effective method involves physically connecting the home's foundation to stable soil or bedrock using steel piers. These piers are driven deep into the ground until they reach stable soil or bedrock and are then connected with heavy-duty steel brackets. This process allows the foundation to be raised back to its original level.
Another approach is the use of steel tubing or helical piers, which are mechanically pushed or screwed into the soil until they reach stable ground. It's important to note that piering is a significant procedure that should be carried out by a company with extensive experience in this field.
Some homeowners may be tempted to ignore settling foundations due to the gradual nature of the problem, attributing the symptoms to the home's "character," especially if it's an older property. However, foundation issues only worsen with time and can eventually lead to foundation failure, resulting in expensive and disruptive repairs.
Fixing foundation problems is essential because your home is not just a building but also the place where you and your family live and create memories. Additionally, it represents a significant financial investment, so protecting it makes sense. If you decide to sell your home, you'll need to disclose any foundation problems it has, and selling it as-is could lead to a substantial financial loss. Moreover, addressing foundation issues today is more cost-effective since problems tend to escalate over time.
The good news is that modern piering technology allows for permanent solutions to settling foundations in most cases. However, it's crucial to have your home inspected by a reputable company with expertise and experience in this area. Avoid relying on general contractors for this specialized task.
Once you have stabilized your home's foundation and restored it to its original level, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is secure, regardless of the hot and dry conditions outside.
