Are you at risk for foundation issues based on where you live? The soil in Dallas county is primarily of the Houston Black-Heiden-Wilson composure. This means that the soil is primarily made of the clay rock formation. The soil is commonly exposed to extreme wetting and drying cycles which accentuates the shrinking and swelling effect. Dallas soil are some of the most expansive of soils and may gain or lose up to 75% of its original soil volume, causing profound gain and loss of a structures foundation.
As you can tell, the composition of Dallas soil can pose challenges when it comes to your home’s foundation. With the constant expansion and contraction, even while not always noticeable to the naked eye, your slab can experience movement that causes cracks. Not all foundation cracks are a problem, but some that widen beyond expansion joint thresholds can be.
The soil in Dallas, TX is typically dried and cracked, placing a risk on all homes built in the area. When the soil expands and cracks it allows water to travel along the cracks and accumulate at the bottom of your homes foundation. Accumulation of water at the base of a foundation can cause the soil to lose some of its load bearing capacity. If enough load bearing capacity is lost the house will descend into the soil. The home submerging into the soil will cause foundation issues as well as cosmetic issues. You will begin to see cracks in your drywall and bricks, doors will no longer close properly and much more.
Expansive soils are one of the nation’s leading causes for foundation issues to homes and buildings. In addition to your foundation sinking there is a rare occasion where the foundation will “Upheave”. This is where external areas around the foundation will rise above the “original elevations”. Upheaving causes the reinforcing steel used in the foundation to bend and stress into what amounts to permanent elongation.
Stratum Foundation Repair is the expert when it comes to foundation repair in the Dallas area. We work with some of the best Engineers in Dallas who will evaluate your homes current conditions before and after repairs to ensure proper lifting was achieved.
If you notice hairline cracks in your foundation that might be a concern, or standing water or mud indicating that you need proper drainage around your house foundation, give us a call. We are happy to perform a free inspection to determine if there are true signs to be concerned about, or simply just something to keep an eye on in the future.
Stratum has a long-standing reputation in the DFW area for both evaluating your particular home’s soil type, but also the foundation problems that may result in the routine movement from weather changes. Reach out today for any questions or concerns, we are happy to help.