Causes of Foundation Failure

Why is it happening?

Evaporation
Hot and dry conditions may cause soil to pull away from the foundation. Settlement due to this foundation moisture imbalance could cause cracks to appear throughout the structure.

Transpiration
Tree roots could dehydrate the soil beneath a home causing soil shrinkage and settlement of the home.

Plumbing Leaks
Water from leaky plumbing is often a major contributor to foundation problems.

Drainage
Improper drainage will lead to excess moisture build up, which could erode or consolidate soils. Excessive moisture may cause upheaval or settlement.

Poor Building Site Preparation
Cut and fill situations, where soil is removed from part of the lot and stacked on another, must have proper soil stabilization before the structure is constructed; otherwise unexpected movements of the soil beneath the foundation may occur.

Poor Ground Preparation
Cut and fill situations should be properly prepared before structure is started or it may result in improperly compacted soil beneath the foundation.

Poor Soil Conditions
Poor soil, organic components, debris, etc., may cause expansion or consolidation, which contribute to foundation failures