Above All Foundation Repair

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Foundation Repairs in Texas?

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Many homeowners insurance policies do offer protection against foundation damage in Texas, but there are plenty of caveats. Making a claim on your insurance policy is always tricky, and foundation coverage in Texas is as complex as it is. 

Being able to claim insurance on foundation damage in Texas depends heavily on the causes of the damage itself. In this article, we will explore how most common homeowners insurance policies handle claims regarding foundation issues.

Why Are Foundation Problems Common In Texas?

As a homeowner, Texas presents a particularly challenging set of conditions for your foundation. The soil in San Antonio, of which there are three main types, is the first issue; clay, clay loam, and sandy loam are hard on foundations due to their weight and expansiveness. Then come the weather conditions: Extreme temperatures and the probability of floods are also the enemies of foundations.

Then, secondary problems can be caused by the primary ones. Maybe the soil settling won’t directly affect your foundation, but it will rupture pipes that can cause floods. Maybe it’s the freeze-thaw cycle on a particularly chilly winter. 

What Types Of Foundation Damage Are Covered By Homeowners Insurance In Texas?

Getting the obvious out of the way, anything that is not clearly defined in your insurance policy will not be covered, period. It’s important to read your insurance policy and all of its clauses carefully to be aware of the type of events that will allow you to submit a claim with your insurance company or carrier.

With that out of the way, you’ll come to find out that a great deal of the major causes of foundation damage tend to be excluded from insurance coverage of most standard policies. Why does this happen? 

Well, for starters, because those common causes of foundation issues fall outside of anyone’s control. But that’s not to say that they don’t cover foundation issues, they do; for some. So let’s start with the damages that are covered by most homeowners’ insurance policies.

Foundation-Damaging Events Covered By Most Home Insurance Policies In Texas

  • Fire damage (including those caused by a lightning strike).
  • Hail and windstorm damage.
  • Damage caused by vehicular collision.
  • Damage caused by civil disturbances and riots, vandalism, or as a consequence of theft.
  • Collapse due to the weight of ice and/or snow/sleet.
  • All manner of fallen aircraft or objects.
  • HVAC malfunction and overflow.
  • Explosions.

 

The list above applies to San Antonio, which is a good thing since the city is also in the top 15 metropolitan areas in the United States that present more foundation issues. They might not be uniquely Texan problems, but San Antonio homeowners are likely to find themselves facing them in the future.

Foundation-Damaging Events NOT Covered By Most Home Insurance Policies In Texas

The following is a list of events that are, as a general rule, not covered by most insurance carriers in Texas. 

  • Damage caused by the natural foundation settling.
  • Damage caused by bulging, expansion, or shrinking of the soil.
  • Earthquakes.
  • Flooding caused by rainstorms.
  • Root penetration.
  • Any damage that results from faulty construction of the property in general.

 

Why don’t insurance carriers cover these events despite being some of the most common causes of foundation damage in Texas? Well, the reasons vary, but the important thing to remember is that the damage can be lessened through prevention and maintenance, which makes regular inspections of your foundation a must for San Antonio homeowners.

Insurance companies in Texas are wise to the prevalence of foundation issues, which is why you can add extra riders to your base policy to cover them. However, while signing up for these additional endorsements can help cover some of the repair costs of foundation damage, they also make you pay higher premiums and deductibles. 

Woman using laptop

What If Your Insurance Policy Doesn’t Cover Your Foundation Repairs?

As any homeowner ought to know, any problem that’s not covered by your insurance policy means that you will have to bear the full cost of the repair. That is why, as we mentioned in the previous section, your two best allies are prevention and regular maintenance. Your best bet is to take every step necessary to keep a healthy foundation that will work for many, many years to come. 

Tips For Maintaining Your Foundation In Great Shape

Here are the most important things you can do to keep your foundation in working condition and avoid costly repairs:

  • Install a proper drainage system to prevent water damage to your foundation.
  • Schedule regular plumbing inspections to, again, avoid water damage.
  • Make sure that your construction slopes away from your foundation.
  • If you have large trees in your yard, install root barriers to prevent tree roots  from penetrating your foundation.
  • Do not keep elevated flower beds immediately next to your foundation.
  • Properly maintain your gutters year-round.
  • Maintain the inner temperature of your home level throughout the year.
  • Have a foundation specialist inspect your foundation regularly to detect “invisible” problems.
  • Avoid soil erosion on your property, particularly around your foundation.

 

Warning Signs Of Foundation Damage

In assessing whether homeowners insurance will cover house foundation repair in Texas, it’s crucial to recognize the warning signs of foundation damage. In addition to the obvious foundation cracks and spalling, key indicators include uneven floors, doors that don’t close properly anymore, and cracks in interior and basement walls. These symptoms are often due to poor construction, poor drainage, natural settling, or even a natural disaster. Coverage for foundation damage caused by shifting soil, tree root growth, or foundation movement can vary. The insurance claim process typically looks for direct physical loss, and it’s essential to determine whether the issue falls under homeowner’s responsibility or if it’s covered by the policy. Immediate repairs might be necessary to prevent further damage, and understanding the claims process is vital in cases like burst pipe incidents. Understanding these warning signs can help homeowners take preventive measures to address issues before they escalate. Additionally, the type of damages—whether from normal wear or external impacts—can influence insurance coverage decisions, making it essential to fully assess the situation and seek professional evaluation from a trusted local foundation repair company.

Taking Care Of Your Foundation To Avoid Expensive Repairs

In summary, while insurance may cover foundation damage from a covered peril, many policies do not provide dwelling coverage for a cracked foundation, pier and beam foundation issues, and more. Earthquake insurance and flood insurance can offer extra foundation protection, so always review your dwelling coverage carefully.

Even if your standard homeowners insurance policy protects you from the most common causes of foundation damage, foundation repairs, in the case of extensive damage, can be really high to pay out of pocket. A savvy homeowner knows that prevention is the best insurance policy, which is why you should trust a team of professionals to inspect and maintain your home’s foundation regularly to avoid burdening the financial cost of fixing a foundation once the damage is too extensive. 

Contact the Above All Foundation Repair team, which is always ready to inspect any type of foundation and offer solutions using the latest equipment in the market today, all backed up by years of experience in the field.

Why is My Home’s Foundation Sinking?

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What Causes My Home’s Foundation To Sink Or Move?

It’s hard to understate just how important a house’s foundation is. The foundation is the load-bearing portion of your home that sits just beneath the ground, keeping the entire structure level and firm. A shift now and then is common enough as the soil below and around your home settles, but any movement more dramatic than that and the structural integrity of the whole house is at risk. 

What causes a home’s foundation to sink, then? Well, there is no shortage of reasons and conditions that can cause structural damage to your home’s foundation, but the major players at the top of it all are climate and geography. Weather events and how the soil in which your house is sitting reacts to them are the root of all foundation issues, and your preventive efforts and timely maintenance will keep your home standing.

While there are different types of foundations (which vary depending on the region), here are some of the most common reasons why foundation sinking happen.

Reasons Why Your Foundation Is Sinking

You might already know that it’s normal for homes to settle into the ground as the soil beneath them shifts or expands depending on the moisture conditions of where you live. Then again, there’s normal shifting, and there’s problematic sinking. The latter is usually caused by soil erosion, which comes from heavy rains or snow (in some parts of the country) or flash floods. 

Another probable reason might be that your home sits at a drainage point, where the water naturally flows down from hills or through valleys. Here, the soil around your home can become oversaturated with water and become soft, causing further sinking. On the other hand, it might be that your home might have poor drainage around its foundation, causing it to get too humid and sink over time.

As you can see, humidity and how the soil around your home reacts to it is a major player in how much your house settles into the ground. Make sure that, if any of the scenarios above apply to your house, have proper measures set up to protect your home from sinking or from getting your foundation damaged.

Finally, another reason why your foundation is sinking might just be due to the age of the structure. Unless your foundation is made of poured concrete, it’s probably made of materials like brick, blocks, or stone. These are held together by mortar, and while this makes for a very strong foundation, the mortar can become weak with age and because of the pressure from the soil surrounding your entire home. 

Warning Signs That Your Foundation Might Be Sinking

Cracks In The Foundation

Perhaps the most notable sign of a sinking foundation across all types and regions is that cracks are likely to appear along the foundation either on your interior walls or floors. For homes that sit on concrete slab foundations (or crawl spaces), foundation cracks might be harder to spot at the beginning when they’re easier to handle, so you might want to schedule regular inspections to detect them early.

While not all cracks are a sign of alarm, since some of them are bound to appear as your house naturally settles, you should give a professional repair service a call if you spot cracks that are wider than one-tenth of an inch or ones that grow in size in a short period of time. A foundation repair expert will know how to assess the severity of the cracks and determine whether they indicate a more serious problem with your home’s foundation. They would also know the best repair method for not only the cracks but the optimal solution to fix your sinking foundation entirely.

Crack on a wall

Bulging Patches Of Lawn Or Concrete

The outward pressure created by a sinking foundation can cause problems for your lawn or yard. These might manifest as small, bulging mounds popping up close to your house. Not only are these bulging mounds unseemly, they can wreak havoc on a flower patch or vegetable garden. 

If you have a paved yard, a sinking foundation can create gaps between the floor around your exterior walls on one side and on the other side, causing the pavement to rise unevenly and crack. Either of the scenarios described above is a clear sign that your house is shifting too much into one side, and you need to take action soon.

Uneven Floors In Your Home

The troubles caused by a sinking foundation don’t stop outside. On the inside, you might start to notice that the floor is uneven (this is particularly noticeable in the doorway between each room, as it might be separating two different types of flooring). To make sure, you can use a bubble level where the floor from both rooms meets or by placing a marble dead center on the floor and see if it “sinks” in a section of the floor.

Opening Doors And Windows Is Difficult

For this sign, you want to verify that the door or window you’re having trouble with is not hard to open or close because of an unrelated reason, such as rusted hinges or blockage. Once you’ve made sure that the door or window should be opening correctly yet offers resistance or feels “sticky,” you can begin to worry. This is caused by high humidity levels that cause the wood to swell or because the excessive setting of the home’s foundation is causing the angles of the frame or hinges to become crooked.

Although we have covered the common signs for sinking foundations, it is still important to have professionals conduct a thorough foundation inspection to correctly assess the severity of the damage and apply the appropriate solutions to address the sinking foundation. Not all wall cracks signal a major issue, but any visible signs (water damage, cracks in foundation walls, or changes in your crawl space)should be assessed as they could indicate severe damage and pose serious safety risks. Sinking foundation repair might involve using steel piers, helical piers, push piers, or slab piers, depending on the soil type and soil composition beneath your home. Foundation repairs can be costly, but investing in quality solutions like steel piers can provide peace of mind by securing the foundation to more stable soil, mitigating future issues caused by natural disasters or foundation sinks. Understanding these aspects helps manage repair costs and protects your home from further damage.

When To Get Help If You Have Foundation Problems

To summarize, drywall cracks, sticking doors, or sagging floors, could be a sign of house sinking meaning serious foundation trouble and costly repairs. This can be caused by foundation shifts caused by excess moisture or soil that wasn’t prepared properly. Seeking professional foundation repair services to install resistance piers can help stabilize your home and prevent further damage.

If you notice that your foundation is sinking beyond what’s described above as “normal,” then it’s time to call an expert to help. You mustn’t ignore the problem and call a professional company since they might need to do more than one inspection to fully assess the issue and offer you the most appropriate solution. 

A sinking home is not a problem you want to put off. If you see cracks, the ground next to your home feels excessively damp, or notice any other signs of foundation sinking, make sure to call if you need foundation repair services!

How To Fix Sinking Foundation

When To Get Help If You Have Foundation Problems

To summarize, drywall cracks, sticking doors, or sagging floors, could be a sign of house sinking meaning serious foundation trouble and costly repairs. This can be caused by foundation shifts caused by excess moisture or soil that wasn’t prepared properly. Seeking professional foundation repair services to install resistance piers can help stabilize your home and prevent further damage.

If you notice that your foundation is sinking beyond what’s described above as “normal,” then it’s time to call an expert to help. You mustn’t ignore the problem and call a professional company since they might need to do more than one inspection to fully assess the issue and offer you the most appropriate solution. 

A sinking home is not a problem you want to put off. If you see cracks, the ground next to your home feels excessively damp, or notice any other signs of foundation sinking, make sure to call if you need foundation repair services!

How To Fix Sinking Foundation

Although we have covered the common signs for sinking foundations, it is still important to have professionals conduct a thorough foundation inspection to correctly assess the severity of the damage and apply the appropriate solutions to address the sinking foundation. Not all wall cracks signal a major issue, but any visible signs (water damage, cracks in foundation walls, or changes in your crawl space)should be assessed as they could indicate severe damage and pose serious safety risks. Sinking foundation repair might involve using steel piers, helical piers, push piers, or slab piers, depending on the soil type and soil composition beneath your home. Foundation repairs can be costly, but investing in quality solutions like steel piers can provide peace of mind by securing the foundation to more stable soil, mitigating future issues caused by natural disasters or foundation sinks. Understanding these aspects helps manage repair costs and protects your home from further damage.

When To Get Help If You Have Foundation Problems

To summarize, drywall cracks, sticking doors, or sagging floors, could be a sign of house sinking meaning serious foundation trouble and costly repairs. This can be caused by foundation shifts caused by excess moisture or soil that wasn’t prepared properly. Seeking professional foundation repair services to install resistance piers can help stabilize your home and prevent further damage.

If you notice that your foundation is sinking beyond what’s described above as “normal,” then it’s time to call an expert to help. You mustn’t ignore the problem and call a professional company since they might need to do more than one inspection to fully assess the issue and offer you the most appropriate solution. 

A sinking home is not a problem you want to put off. If you see cracks, the ground next to your home feels excessively damp, or notice any other signs of foundation sinking, make sure to call if you need foundation repair services!

Concrete Driveway Repair & Replacement Options For Homeowners

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It’s important, as a homeowner, to know when your driveway needs some maintenance done or if it’s time to accept that you need to have a brand new one poured in. The issue is, when is it sensible to do one over the other? This article will help you differentiate which option is the best fit for your driveway, as well as break down the most common problems faced by owners such as yourself.

Signs That Your Concrete Driveway Needs To Be Repaired Or Replaced

It’s good to always be on the lookout for the early signs of a damaged driveway. Concrete is an amazing material that will be very good to you when given proper care, but it’s not immune to wear; some small signs of concrete deterioration can be repaired without a hitch, but more extensive damage might signal that it’s time for a full replacement.

Here are some of the early warning signs to look out for in a concrete driveway.

Faded Or Discolored Concrete

Some fading in your driveway can be a purely aesthetic issue, but it is also a sign that your concrete has lost its protective layer and will deteriorate faster and easier from now on.

Potholes 

If the issue of fading or discoloration on your concrete driveway followed its course, then you’re probably looking at a pothole on your own driveway now. Not only do they lower your home’s curb appeal catastrophically, but can even damage your car.

Crumbling Edges

The edges of concrete driveways usually only start to crumble once there is structural damage already. Finding them means that you probably need a more extensive type of repair (or sometimes outright replacement) to get rid of the issue.

Pooling Water

If a significant amount of water starts pooling in your driveway, it could mean one of several things. For instance, the surface of your driveway might have degraded, which means there is existing damage already, but you should still have it repaired quickly if you are to prevent even more erosion. It also means your concrete was not installed correctly and is unleveled, meaning water will continue to pool and inflict constant damage on your concrete driveway.

Cracks In The Concrete

The ever-present threat of cracks also haunts driveways. As any seasoned homeowner knows, small concrete driveway cracks are easy to repair, they can even become a DIY project. However, larger cracks (or a large number of cracks concentrated in a small area) can be a warning sign that your concrete driveway needs a professional to take a look or maybe even a full replacement.

One man at work using a float for concreting a drive way
one man at work using a float for concreting a drive way

Concrete Driveway Repair, Replacement, and Resurfacing

What are your options for most of the issues mentioned above? It comes down to three simple ones: 

Benefits Of Driveway Repair

Concrete driveways are not immune to damage, but they are quite durable when given proper maintenance. You would be surprised at the kind of damage driveways can bounce back from. Even deep cracks that might seem terribly deep can be patched up with the right patching material, such as caulk and sealant. Other issues, like subdued or heaved concrete slabs, can be leveled as long as the structure is still sound. 

A driveway repair is usually simple and very cost-effective. Minor repairs are easy on your wallet and can significantly expand the life of your driveway. A concrete resurfacing for your driveway is a little more expensive than a simple repair, and it definitely needs to be done by a team of professionals; however, after it’s done, your driveway will look beautiful.

Benefits Of Driveway Replacement

A driveway replacement is simply taking out your old, damaged driveway and pouring in a new one. It’s definitely the more expensive option, but it offers a solution that will last for a long, long time. 

A concrete driveway replacement is not just for when your is busted up beyond concrete repair. It can also help you add more space, use higher-quality material, or follow your home renovation plans.

A new concrete driveway can last for up to 30 years or more, depending on the level of care you give it. It offers a clean look that’s an absolute classic and can be finished with various textures and colors to offer a fully personalized look, so what’s not to love?

Leaving Your Driveway Repair Or Replacement To The Experts

Whether you want to have some intensive fixes done to your entire driveway or have chosen to replace it completely, it’s better to have a team of professionals handle matters. Choosing professional services over DIY repair make sense in the long run especially when the contractors have years of experience and the best and latest equipment. 

We’re the experts at Above All Foundation Repair, be sure to give us a call for all concrete driveway repair related matters!

The 3 Main Ways Gutters Help To Protect Your Foundation

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How Gutters Help Protect Your Home’s Foundation

Rain gutters are some of the hardest working parts of the home, but many homeowners seem to overlook how essential they are in protecting their home’s foundation. They’re just sitting outside, after all! But gutters are the first line of defense as they channel and divert rainwater away from the ground that your very house sits on. 

Understanding the important role your gutters play in the protection of your foundation from costly water damage is vital if you want to extend your home’s useful life. That means that guarding your gutters from blockage and keeping them in good condition goes a long way in protecting your home.

What’s The Relationship Between Working Gutters And A Good Foundation?

Simply put, a properly working gutter system’s job is to direct water away from your home. It ensures that the water that flows through the gutters reaches the downspout and keeps down the drain away from the house. An improperly working gutter will instead dump the water right there on the ground next to the house, bringing a slew of problems that can directly affect your home’s foundation. Sounds dramatic, but it’s true! 

How Does A Clogged Or Damaged Gutter Affect My Home’s Foundation?

Letting your gutter problems go unchecked can eventually lead to severe water damage issues around your home that, in turn, lead to very expensive solutions, not to mention extensive and complex repairs that can disrupt your daily life for at least a couple of weeks.

 Here are some examples:

  1. Foundation Damage: The main role of a roof gutter is to prevent excess rainwater from falling on your roof and away from your house and to prevent it from pooling on the ground right next to where your foundation is. When gutters get clogged, however, this water overflows the gutter, which makes it spill from it right into the ground. What follows is the water seeping into the ground through existing foundation cracks (or worse, by eroding it), results in a wet foundation during the summer or into a freeze-thaw cycle during winter, causing cracks on the foundation materials.
  2. Wood rot: When the water overflows from your congested gutters or blocked gutters, it might not spill directly on the ground. Some of it may wash over the walls, which brings its own batch of problems. This excess moisture can lead to mildew growth and mold growth, as well as swollen and rotting wood. If this rotten wood is part of a support beam, then you’re looking at very serious structural problems in your home. 
  3. Basement Flooding: The water that overflows from your gutters can also find its way into your basement, which is a can of worms in itself. Not only does flooding accelerate any underlying foundation issues you might already have from the water, but it can bring about a great deal of problems, such as molds, material loss of stored objects, and damage to the electrical system.
  4. Pest infestation problems: Rotten wood is a preferred snack of many types of insects that you definitely don’t want in your home. Termites and carpenter ants can do some serious structural damage to wooden houses, not to mention the costly pest control that you’ll have to hire in order to get rid of them. Standing water can also become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other pests and fungi.

Now that we have explained a few of the many scary problems that can originate from unkempt, clogged gutters, let’s take a look at the ways that properly functioning, clean gutters protect your home’s foundation.

Hand with glove cleaning house gutter from leaves

1. Gutters Prevent Hydrocompaction

The composition of the soil around your home is rarely uniform. If the ground is getting continuously flooded from overflowing gutters, some patches of that soil will expand and then wash away, leaving empty spaces in the ground. The soil around these empty spaces then sits and compacts, which leaves it uneven, which can cause shifts and cracks on your foundation that are costly to repair. 

2. Gutters Prevent Infiltration

Water is going to find the quickest way down wherever it falls. “Down” can be either on proper drainage traps or the cracks in the concrete surrounding your home. If the ground then becomes saturated, the pressure it can exert on the sides of your foundation can exceed 5,000 pounds of pressure! This, obviously, can have a devastating impact on your home’s structural integrity.

3. Gutters Protect Your Lawn From Erosion

Erosion happens when the ground on your lawn starts wearing away. If this happens to the soil around your foundation, then it will eventually become exposed (in the more severe cases), leaving it at the mercy of the elements and all sorts of accidents. 

How To Ensure That Your Gutters Will Protect Your Foundation

Gutters are more important than just an aesthetic addition to your home’s exterior. To keep them in working condition, it’s recommended that you clean your gutters twice a year at the very least (and even more if you live in an area with frequent rainfall). It’s important to quickly address any issues you find with your gutter systems before the rainy season starts, as leaving them unattended can escalate any foundation water damage that is already underway. 

After the rainy season ends, make sure to inspect both your gutters and your foundation to verify they’re both in top condition. Make sure that there are no obstructions preventing the water from reaching the downspout, that there’s no excess humidity on your exterior walls, and that the ground above your foundation is not too damp or feels swollen.

It’s safe to say that your gutters and foundation work as a team. You would be surprised at the amount of people who simply remove the gutters from their homes because they consider them unappealing! Gutters play a major role in protecting your foundation from water damage and your home from costly problems such as uneven floors, electrical issues, soil erosion, bowing walls, infestations, and much more. 

So, remember to call the experts if have faulty gutters or if you know that your gutters are in need of some much-needed maintenance. For your peace of mind and all the money you’ll save from expensive damages to your foundation, you’ll certainly be thankful that you did!

Foundation Maintenance Tips to Avoid Major Repairs

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How To Properly Maintain Your Foundation

Introduction to Foundation Health

A home’s foundation is its most critical structural component, and proper foundation maintenance is essential to prevent costly repairs. Foundation health is crucial for the overall stability and safety of a home, and regular inspections can help identify potential issues before they become major problems. A well-maintained foundation can save homeowners money in the long run by preventing foundation repairs and ensuring the home remains in good shape.

Proper drainage, consistent moisture levels, and a sound drainage system are essential for maintaining a healthy foundation. Homeowners can take preventive measures to maintain their foundation, including performing regular inspections and addressing minor issues promptly. By staying proactive, you can ensure your foundation remains strong and stable for years to come.

You are probably already familiar with the typical warning signs of a damaged foundation (and if you aren’t, you should read our article about it). However, did you also know that most foundation problems can be prevented if you do proper foundation maintenance? 

Of course, you should always let a team of foundation professionals handle the bigger jobs so as not to put yourself or your house at risk. Still, there are plenty of things that you, as a diligent homeowner, can do to keep minor issues from turning into big (and expensive) headaches.

How To Properly Maintain Your Foundation

You are probably already familiar with the typical warning signs of a damaged foundation (and if you aren’t, you should read our article about it). However, did you also know that most foundation problems can be prevented if you do proper foundation maintenance?

Of course, you should always let a team of foundation professionals handle the bigger jobs so as not to put yourself or your house at risk. Still, there are plenty of things that you, as a diligent homeowner, can do to keep minor issues from turning into big (and expensive) headaches.

Poor drainage and excess water around your home can lead to significant foundation issues. Ensuring a positive slope around your home is crucial for proper water drainage. Additionally, improper grading can be corrected by adding fill dirt to level the slope and direct water away from the foundation.

Tree roots can cause severe damage to your foundation. It is important to avoid planting trees too close to the foundation to prevent root intrusion.

Plumbing issues can also affect your foundation. Implementing an automatic sprinkler system can help maintain consistent moisture levels around your home, preventing cracks and other foundation issues.

During dry periods and excessively wet conditions, it is essential to address a cracked foundation promptly to avoid further damage.

Causes of Foundation Problems

Foundation problems can arise from various sources, and understanding these causes can help you take preventive measures. Poor drainage and excess water around the foundation can cause foundation problems, including foundation upheaval and damage. Ensuring proper drainage around your home is crucial to prevent water from accumulating and causing issues.

Tree roots from large trees can grow under the foundation, causing cracks and shifting. Installing a root barrier can help prevent this type of damage while allowing you to keep your beautiful trees. Plumbing issues, such as leaks and poor water control, can also lead to foundation problems, resulting in costly repairs. Regular plumbing inspections can help detect and address these issues early.

Improper grading and a negative slope can cause water to accumulate around the foundation, leading to foundation damage. Ensuring that the ground slopes away from your home can prevent this problem. Additionally, dry periods and excessively wet conditions can cause the soil to contract and expand, putting pressure on the foundation and leading to foundation trouble. Maintaining consistent moisture levels around your foundation can help mitigate these effects.

7 Tips For Proper Foundation Maintenance

The following tips will help you properly maintain your foundation: 

Architect checking the foundation

1. Regular Foundation Inspections

There’s no better way to find problems than to go looking for them. When it comes to your foundation, that’s exactly what you want! Performing regular inspections will allow you to catch any foundation issues while they’re still in the early stages. It is important to perform regular inspections at least twice a year, focusing on both the exterior and interior of your home. This will save you lots of time and money when you choose to repair them.

A thorough inspection around your property, looking for any signs of water damage or cracks, should be enough to avoid any major problems and costly repairs. Remember to also inspect the interior of your home (especially the basement if you have it) for cracks on the walls and ceiling. If your doors or windows are also hard to close properly, that’s another sign of trouble. All of these can be a sign that your home might be shifting too much, and that needs to be addressed. If you find any signs of foundation issues, it is crucial to seek a professional opinion to prevent expensive repairs in the future.

2. Fix Any Known Plumbing Issues

Plumbing issues mean moisture and unchecked moisture means trouble for your foundation. The worst-case scenario for plumbing issues is an undetected leak that saturates the soil surrounding your foundation with water. This can result in foundation cracks if the soil presses too hard against it or cause your home to shift too much in one direction (which can cause structural damage.) Scheduling a thorough plumbing inspection can help identify potential leaks before they lead to severe damage.

Have your pipes and fixtures inspected three or four times per year to detect any plumbing leaks that might be spilling water near your foundation. Even a slow leak can make the ground too damp and soft to properly support the weight of your home, but it also wastes hundreds of gallons of water every month if left unchecked. Addressing plumbing leaks is critical to prevent severe foundation damage and costly repairs.. 

3. Install A Root Barrier In Your Yard

While trees can be a beautiful addition to your yard, it’s important to understand the risks posed by their roots and how to prevent them. One of the biggest issues that homeowners with trees in their yard face is root penetration. That is, growing tree roots can reach the home’s foundation and cause all sorts of damage.

As you know, tree roots grow unpredictably and can be almost three times as long as the tree’s canopy; this means that if a tree’s canopy has a 10-foot radius, then its roots can easily surpass 30 feet in length! Large tree roots can grow significantly beyond the tree’s canopy radius, potentially leading to foundation problems if not properly managed. Drop the ax, however; installing a root barrier can help you avoid root penetration of your home’s foundation while keeping your beautiful tree alive.

A root barrier is a piece of material made to separate tree roots from your home’s foundation to prevent root damage. Root barriers can be made from various materials, including thick rubber, and should be installed at a depth of at least three feet around the foundation to effectively protect it from extensive root growth. A professional should be able to install a root barrier between your foundation and the offending tree in just a couple of hours.

4. Make Sure That Your Yard Goes Downhill From The House

No matter where you live, you do not want your house to be at the bottom of a hill. Why? Well, if your house were to be at the bottom of a slope where all the water that runs from the hill converges (also called a “drainage point”), then floods and water damage would be a constant problem for your foundation. For example, after a heavy rainstorm, the soil surrounding your home can become so flooded that the water might flow back toward your foundation. Having a good drainage system is crucial to prevent water pooling around the foundation and causing potential damage.

If you find out that the ground around your home does slope towards your foundation, the good news is that you can level the slope away from it. How? Well, the process is to simply use dirt to fill the low parts of the slope around your home and then grade it little by little. Installing a French drain can significantly improve drainage around your home’s foundation. Additionally, using surface drains as a solution can help prevent drainage problems and maintain the integrity of your property. Unless you have plenty of experience doing this kind of job, we highly recommend hiring a professional to do it on your property.

Setting the thermostat

5. Maintain A Steady Temperature Inside Your Home

Constant temperature fluctuations year after year can make your foundation expand and contract. As a consequence, cracks might appear on your foundation. To prevent this, keep your home’s temperature and humidity levels as consistent as you can through the years, which will minimize the damage done to your foundation. Maintaining a steady temperature is crucial to prevent the concrete slab from expanding and contracting, which could lead to foundation damage.

If you’re leaving on vacation, you might be tempted to just turn the thermostat off, but this can cause extreme temperature changes that will do more damage to your foundation. Instead, leave it on a low setting so that the temperature never goes below 40 F or above 100 F. Slab foundations are particularly susceptible to thermal fluctuations, so maintaining a consistent temperature is essential to protect their integrity.

6. Keep A Consistent Moisture Level In Your Yard

As we’ve mentioned above, the soil around your foundation will contract and expand as the moisture levels change and it gets flooded or dries out. However, did you know you can fight moisture with moisture? Most foundation cracks actually appear when the soil dries out and contracts. If the soil becomes exceedingly wet, it can also lead to significant structural problems. In order to prevent cracks from appearing on your foundation, keep a consistent moisture level all around your yard by using your sprinklers or a hose all through the year, particularly during the drought season or right as the rainy season ends.

There are also more specialized solutions to this problem. You could install an underground foundation watering system, which makes sure that the soil around your foundation is always evenly moisturized at just the right level. Excess water from plumbing issues can lead to potentially softening the soil, compromising the stability of the foundation. Implementing a water control program, such as an automatic sprinkler system, can help maintain consistent moisture levels and prevent foundation damage.

7: Give Proper Maintenance To Your Gutters And Downspouts

We have talked before about the vital role that your gutters and downspouts play in protecting your foundation from water damage. Well, proper maintenance of your gutters will ensure that their utility doesn’t give out and continue to provide proper drainage for your home. After all, blocked gutters and downspouts cannot properly divert the water away from your foundation. Maintaining clean gutters is crucial to ensure they can do their job correctly, preventing potential water pooling around your home.

Make sure that you clear out all the dead leaves, twigs, and other debris out of your gutters and downspouts to prevent the water from pooling around your home (and then filter straight through your foundation. Also, make sure that the water being diverted away from your foundation actually follows the slope on which your property is built, or it will flow back directly to your home.

Identifying Foundation Damage

Identifying foundation damage early can save you from costly repairs down the line. Warning signs of foundation damage include cracks in walls and ceilings, doors that don’t close properly, and windows that are out of line. Homeowners can perform regular foundation inspections to identify potential issues, including checking for signs of foundation damage and moisture accumulation.

A professional inspection can help identify foundation problems, including hairline cracks and structural issues that may not be immediately visible. Foundation cracks can be a sign of foundation damage, and addressing them promptly can prevent costly repairs. Homeowners should be aware of the signs of foundation damage and take preventive measures to maintain their foundation.

Preparing for Seasonal Changes

Different seasons can bring different challenges for a foundation, and preparing for seasonal changes can help prevent foundation damage. Homeowners can take steps to maintain consistent moisture levels around their foundation, including using an underground foundation watering system or automatic lawn sprinkler. These systems ensure that the soil around your foundation remains evenly moisturized, preventing it from contracting and expanding excessively.

Proper drainage and a sound drainage system, including gutters and downspouts, can help prevent water accumulation around the foundation. Ensuring that your drainage system is functioning correctly can protect your foundation from water damage. Homeowners should be aware of the potential for foundation problems during dry periods and take steps to maintain a consistent moisture level.

Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent costly repairs and ensure the foundation remains in good shape. Keeping a foundation log can help track maintenance and repairs, making it easier to stay on top of your foundation’s health. By preparing for seasonal changes and maintaining consistent moisture levels, you can protect your foundation from damage and ensure your home remains stable and secure.

Trust Above All Foundation Repair For All Your Foundation Needs

Following these tips will make sure that your foundation has many, many healthy years ahead of it. However, if you notice any worrying signs that your foundation might be already giving out, call a professional to perform an inspection right away! Hesitation will only give the existing foundation damage more time to expand, which can lead to more problems down the line. Addressing foundation issues promptly is crucial to prevent severe damage.

Nobody wants to deal with the cost and inconvenience of a damaged foundation. If you find yourself in that situation, call Above All Foundation Repair right away! We are a team of certified professionals with years of experience and the latest inspection and repair tech. We’ll give your foundation the care it deserves — reach out today to schedule an inspection!

Common Causes of a Wet Crawl Space

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Have you ever encountered a damp and musty crawl space in your home? It’s not just a minor inconvenience—it could be a sign of a larger issue. 

Moisture issues in your crawl space can lead to various problems, such as mold growth, structural damage, and poor indoor air quality. Identifying and addressing the underlying issues is essential to prevent further damage and ensure the safety of your home.

By understanding the common causes of a wet crawl space and implementing effective solutions, you can protect your home from water damage and create a healthier living environment. Let’s explore the factors contributing to a wet crawl space and how you can effectively address them.

Poor Drainage

Poor drainage often causes water to pool around your home’s foundation, leading to a wet crawl space. You’re not alone in this; many homeowners face similar issues, especially during seasons of heavy rain.

One common culprit behind poor drainage is inadequate or clogged plumbing systems from surface water. When your home’s rain gutters and downspouts are blocked or you have clogged gutters, water from rain or irrigation can’t flow away properly, causing it to accumulate near your foundation. Regularly cleaning out your gutters and checking your downspouts for blockages can make a significant difference.

  • How to Fix It

To fix poor drainage around your home, start by regrading the soil to slope away from your foundation. This simple adjustment can significantly reduce crawl space moisture, preventing the stressful issues of mold growth and structural damage.

You’re not alone in this battle; many homeowners share your concerns and are seeking effective solutions.

Next, consider installing a proper drainage system, such as French drains, which intercept and redirect water away from your home. It’s also crucial to ensure your gutters and downspouts are clear and functioning well, as they play a key role in managing rainwater.

Groundwater

Groundwater seepage often leads to wet crawl spaces, especially when the natural flow directs water toward your home’s foundation. This influx of groundwater can create an environment ripe for water pooling and excess moisture to accumulate beneath your home.

You’re not alone in this; many homeowners face similar challenges, especially in areas prone to high water tables or inadequate outdoor drainage.

When groundwater levels rise, the pressure can force water in crawl spaces, making it persistently damp. This isn’t just a minor inconvenience. Over time, this excess moisture can lead to mold growth and structural damage and even affect the overall air quality in your home. It’s a shared struggle that affects not only your comfort but also the integrity of your property.

  • How to Fix It

Addressing a wet crawl space caused by groundwater involves understanding the landscape around your home and possibly adjusting it. Solutions like installing a proper drainage system or a sump pump might be necessary. These measures can redirect the water away from your foundation, helping to keep your crawl space dry and your home safe.

Plumbing Leaks

Plumbing leaks, including those from burst pipes, are another significant cause of a wet crawl space, potentially leading to severe moisture problems in your home. These leaks can quietly wreak havoc, often going unnoticed until significant damage has occurred.

Leaks typically start small so that you don’t see signs of trouble right away. However, over time, even a slight drip can saturate the ground beneath your home, leading to an uncomfortably moist environment.

This isn’t just a nuisance; it’s a call to rally together and protect the integrity of your living space.

Remember, every pipe and connection in your crawl space could be a potential source of trouble. Regular inspections can catch leaks early, saving you a great deal of stress and thousands of dollars in repair costs.

Don’t let plumbing leaks threaten the comfort and safety of your home. Take action, reach out for help if needed, and keep your crawl space dry and functional. Water heaters, HVAC systems, or other appliances with drainage lines running through the crawl space can also be sources of water.

After all, taking care of your home is taking care of your family and your shared future.

  • How to Fix It

Start by inspecting all plumbing fixtures and pipes for leaks. If you find any, replacing or repairing them promptly is crucial.

To manage moisture, consider installing a vapor barrier, which can significantly protect your home by reducing dampness. Additionally, a sump pump might be necessary if water accumulation is a recurring issue.

Condensation 

Condensation occurs when warm, moist air from outside hits cooler foundation walls or uninsulated pipes, leading to damp air and the potential growth of mildew and mold, which can affect the air you breathe and the foundation you rely on.

  • How to Fix It

Addressing condensation in your crawl space starts with improving ventilation to reduce moisture buildup. Begin by scheduling a professional crawl space inspection. This step is crucial as it helps identify specific problem areas, such as poor airflow or existing moisture damage.

Once the inspection is complete, consider installing a vapor barrier. This plastic or foil sheeting covers the ground and lower parts of your crawl space walls, effectively blocking moisture from seeping up from the ground. It’s a proactive step that unites us all in the battle against moisture.

You can also install dehumidifiers that slowly and constantly remove condensation and humidity from the air, making sure the environment is dry. The only negative about this is that you’ll have to drain or empty the dehumidifiers’ water tanks constantly or connect them directly to a sump pump that siphons the water away from the crawl space floor.

Foundation Issues

Foundation issues can significantly exacerbate moisture problems in your home’s foundation and crawl space. When you’re dealing with cracks in your foundation, they not only undermine the structural integrity of your home but also invite a host of moisture issues. These cracks can act like gateways for water and water vapor to enter, raising the humidity levels under your house and setting the stage for potential damage and discomfort.

Changes in the soil can also affect the foundation’s integrity, leading to water ingress.

  • How to Fix It

To address foundation issues causing a wet crawl space, hire a professional foundation repair team to first identify any cracks or gaps in the foundation walls. Once you find these, it’s important to seal them properly to prevent further entry of moisture. It might be recommended that you fix some of the plumbing below, cracks in a concrete slab, or install a vapor barrier as well.

Addressing these issues not only preserves the integrity of your crawl space but also enhances the overall health of your living environment.

Landscape and Irrigation

Your home’s landscape and irrigation setup can play a significant role in the moisture levels of your crawl space. When you’ve got a beautifully landscaped yard, it’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about keeping your home healthy from the ground up. Proper irrigation is key to managing this moisture. If your irrigation system is poorly designed or incorrectly aimed, it can lead to excessive water accumulating around your foundation, which then seeps into your crawl space.

  • How to Fix It

Consider the slope of your landscape. It should ideally slope away from your home, guiding excess water to drain properly and not pool near your foundation. Again, consider installing French drains, which are especially effective in preventing water accumulation.

Additionally, install interior drainage systems as part of an effective waterproofing strategy for your crawl space. These systems work in conjunction with sump pumps to manage water intrusion, ensuring a dry environment and preventing dampness.

Regular checks and maintenance of your irrigation system are crucial. Make sure sprinkler heads aren’t directing water towards your home and that they’re functioning correctly to distribute water evenly.

Sump Pump Failure

A sump pump is designed to pump out water that collects in your crawl space, preventing it from accumulating and causing issues if the water level reaches a certain height. Sump pumps play a crucial role in diverting excess water, particularly after heavy rain, ensuring a dry environment that protects the integrity of the foundation and prevents issues such as mold and dry rot.

If a sump pump installed to remove water from the crawl space fails, it can lead to water buildup. Or, it’s a sump pump that isn’t powerful enough for the volume of water, which can lead to water accumulation.

You’ll also need to check the pump for any obvious blockages or mechanical failures.

  • How to Fix It

Fixing or replacing a faulty sump pump can quickly restore the defense against moisture intrusion.

To fix a sump pump system failure, start by checking if the pump is receiving power and that it isn’t clogged with debris. When heavy rain hits, your pump must be ready to prevent water from pooling in your crawl space.

Next, inspect the intake and discharge lines to ensure they’re clear of obstructions and operating smoothly.

Have a professional inspect the sump pit and pump annually and after any major storms.

This proactive approach can prevent future failures and maintain the integrity of spaces around your home, especially those vulnerable cracks where water likes to sneak in.

Flooding

If your home is situated in a low-lying area, you might find that too much water is a major contributor to a wet crawl space. Floodwaters can seep in, bringing excessive moisture that doesn’t just stay put; it spreads and it lingers. This isn’t just your challenge—it’s a common struggle for many homeowners who face similar frustrations.

Ensuring proper drainage and installing barriers can help, but sometimes, nature overpowers even the best defenses and leaves you with devastating effects. Furthermore, poor drainage systems in the neighborhood can also contribute to crawl space flooding.

This persistent moisture creates the perfect conditions for mold growth and even foundation damage, which can start to form if the water isn’t removed swiftly. It’s crucial to address these issues promptly. Regular checks after storms or melting snow can be a game-changer by catching problems like a flooded crawl space before they escalate.

  • How to Fix It

Addressing flood-related issues in your crawl space starts with installing a proper drainage system. It’s essential to ensure the pipes are correctly laid out to divert water away from your foundation, preventing the damp conditions that attract pests and foster mold growth in basements.

Consider installing a sump pump for extra security against flooding and future flooding if you don’t have one already. This setup pumps out any water that intrudes, keeping your crawl space dry and your mind at ease.

Major Issues a Wet Crawl Space Can Lead To

When your crawl space remains wet, it leads to serious issues that can affect your entire home. You’re looking at potential mold growth, possible foundation issues, and risks to your family’s health.

These problems not only threaten the structure of your house but also drive up your energy costs and put the stability of your foundation at risk.

Mold

One serious crawl space moisture problem is mold growth, posing significant health risks to you and your family. Mold and mildew growth in crawl spaces is a common challenge that many homeowners face, although sometimes without knowing it until it’s too late.

When your crawl space remains damp, it becomes a breeding ground for mold spores and dead insects. These spores can then circulate through your home, compromising the air quality.

Breathing in mold can lead to a variety of health issues, particularly for those with allergies or respiratory conditions. You might notice more frequent headaches, sneezing, or even chronic respiratory problems.

It’s crucial to address mold issues not only for the health of your home but also for the well-being of everyone inside.

Dust Mites and Pests

Besides mold, a wet crawl space also attracts dust mites and various pests, exacerbating the situation.

Dust mites thrive in humid environments, and a damp crawl space provides the perfect breeding ground. These tiny creatures can significantly impact your health, especially if you’re prone to allergies or asthma.

Similarly, pests like termites, ants, and rodents find wet crawl spaces irresistible. Insect infestations like these not only pose health risks through potential bites and the spread of disease but also by attracting other pests such as spiders, mice, rats, and snakes, creating an unstable ecosystem right under your feet.

The good news is there are effective solutions to mitigate these risks. Ensuring proper ventilation and possibly installing a dehumidifier can dramatically reduce humidity levels, making your crawl space less appealing to dust mites and pests. Additionally, sealing entry points and regular inspections can keep these unwanted guests at bay.

Endangers Electrical Wiring

Moisture in your crawl space can seriously threaten electrical wiring, increasing the risk of shorts and fires. 

Wet conditions around electrical wiring are a recipe for disaster. This isn’t just a minor issue—it’s a call to action to safeguard your home and everyone in it.

Think about it: electrical wiring is the nervous system of your home, carrying power to where you need it most. But when moisture in your crawl space starts meddling with this system, it compromises not only the efficiency but also the safety of electrical circuits. Corrosion can set in, wires can degrade, and before you know it, the risk of electrical shorts or even fires can significantly increase.

It’s crucial to address these issues head-on to protect not just your property but your peace of mind. Regular crawl space evaluations and maintenance are key.

Higher Energy Costs

In addition to posing safety risks, a wet crawl space can cause higher energy bills, inflating them significantly. When you’ve got crawl space moisture seeping in, it doesn’t just stay there—it affects your entire home. This damp environment forces your heating and cooling systems to work overtime, as damp air takes more energy to heat and cool effectively. It’s like they’re running a never-ending marathon against moisture, and all that extra work isn’t cheap.

You might’ve noticed some telltale signs already. Maybe your floors feel unusually cold, or there’s a musty odor reminiscent of basements coming from below. These are indicators that your crawl space’s condition is pulling more from your pocketbook than it should.

Puts Soil Under Foundation In Danger

A wet crawl space jeopardizes the stability of your home’s foundation by weakening the supporting soil. When the soil under your home becomes overly saturated, it loses its ability to bear the load of your house. This can lead to unsettling shifts and cracks that compromise the safety of your family.

Call Above All Foundation Repair After Any Signs of Wet Crawl Spaces

Addressing a wet crawl space often involves a combination of improving drainage around the home, sealing foundation cracks, ensuring proper ventilation, and possibly installing or maintaining a sump pump. 

If you notice any signs of a wet crawl space, immediately call Above All Foundation Repair for expert assistance. 

Wet crawl spaces can be daunting, but with the right team on your side, you can restore your home’s health and your peace of mind.

At Above All Foundation Repair, we understand that your home is more than just a structure; it’s a place where you build your life and make memories. That’s why we treat every call with urgency and care.

We’re here to support you every step of the way, making sure you feel fully included in the process and satisfied with the outcome.

Remember, a dry crawl space is key to a healthy, safe living environment.

 

1. What are the common causes of wet crawl spaces?

Wet crawl spaces can result from multiple factors, including:

  • Poor drainage around the foundation
  • High groundwater levels
  • Leaking pipes or plumbing issues
  • Condensation due to high humidity
  • Overflowing gutters or downspouts
  • Improper grading around the home
  • Flooding from heavy rain or storms

Humidity in crawl spaces occurs when warm, moist air enters and condenses on cooler surfaces, leading to dampness. This can promote mold growth, mildew, and wood rot.

Yes, dirt crawl spaces tend to hold moisture, which can evaporate and increase humidity levels. Encapsulation or vapor barriers can help control this issue.

Standing water can lead to:

  • Structural damage (wood rot, weakened supports)
  • Mold and mildew growth
  • Pest infestations (termites, rodents, insects)
  • Musty smells and poor indoor air quality

Leaky basement windows and burst or leaking pipes introduce water directly into the crawl space, leading to pooling and long-term moisture problems if not repaired quickly.

Yes, clogged or overflowing gutters can direct water toward the foundation, increasing the risk of water seeping into the crawl space.

The first step is identifying the root cause—whether it’s poor drainage, plumbing leaks, or high humidity. A professional inspection can help determine the best solution.

Encapsulation involves sealing the crawl space with a vapor barrier, reducing humidity, preventing water vapor from entering, and improving air quality.

Yes, a sump pump removes standing water, while a French drain or interior drainage system can help prevent future flooding.

Worry about excess moisture can trigger allergies, asthma, and respiratory issues due to mold spores and mildew growth. It can also attract pests that carry diseases.

  • Ensure proper ventilation (or sealed encapsulation)
  • Use a dehumidifier
  • Insulate pipes and cold surfaces
  • Fix any air leaks from the home

Location variations (like high water tables in Kansas or Michigan), foundation type, age of the home, and local weather conditions all play a role.

Yes, prolonged moisture can weaken wooden beams, cause foundation cracks, and lead to costly repairs if left untreated.

  • Improve exterior drainage (gutters, grading)
  • Install a vapor barrier or encapsulation
  • Use a dehumidifier
  • Repair plumbing leaks
  • Consider a sump pump or French drain

At least twice a year (after heavy rains or seasonal changes) to catch issues early before they worsen.

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