A home’s foundation is its most important structural element. It supports the rest of the house and keeps it from sinking, shifting, or cracking. When a foundation starts to sink, it can cause various other problems that can be costly and dangerous to fix.
Causes of a sinking foundation
Sinking foundations are a common problem in homes across the country. There are several potential causes of this issue, including weak or improperly compacted soil, improper drainage, and poor foundation construction. In some cases, the underlying problem may be something as simple as a tree root growing too close to the home’s foundation. However, other factors such as weather conditions or changes in the groundwater level can also contribute to a sinking foundation. If you are experiencing this problem with your home, it is essential to identify the cause and take steps to correct it as soon as possible.
Signs that you have a sinking foundation
A sinking foundation is a serious structural problem that can lead to a home’s collapse. There are several signs that can indicate your foundation is starting to sink. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to have your foundation inspected by a professional foundation repair contractor to determine the extent of the problem and come up with a plan for repairing it.
-Your home is visibly tilting or sagging
-The doors and windows don’t close properly
-You can see cracks in the walls, ceilings, or floors
-The walls feel soft when you touch them
-There are visible gaps between the floor and the wall
How to fix a sinking foundation
A sinking foundation is a problem that can be fixed if you have the right tools and knowledge. There are several steps necessary to fix a sinking foundation, and each one is important in order to ensure the safety and stability of your home.
1. Determine the extent of the damage and what is causing the foundation to sink. This may require hiring a professional engineer to assess the situation.
2. Fix any underlying problems that are causing the foundation to sink. This may include repairing drainage issues, replacing rotted beams or supports, or fixing cracked or heaving concrete slabs.
3. shore up the foundation by installing supports or braces
4. Finally, the foundation must be leveled using hydraulic jacks. It is important to use jacks that are properly sized for the job, and it is often necessary to install more than one jack in order to achieve even lifting.
