There are several reasons why people might need to have their foundation repaired. Cracks in the foundation can be caused by various things, such as shifting soil, poor construction, or even natural disasters. If not addressed, these cracks can lead to bigger and more expensive problems. That’s why it’s essential to be aware of the three most common issues associated with foundation repair. Find out more about Woodridge foundation repair here.
1. Damaged or Unmarked Utilities
Damaged or unmarked utilities are one of the most common problems during foundation repair. If these lines are not correctly marked, they can be easily damaged during the repair process. This can result in expensive repairs and even pose a safety hazard to your home and family.
The common utilities susceptible to damage or unmarking include:
- Gas lines: when it comes to gas lines, always err on the side of caution. If you smell gas or see any damage to the line, immediately evacuate your home and call your local utility company.
- Sewer lines: If you think your sewer line may be damaged, it’s essential to have it checked by a professional as soon as possible. A broken sewer line can cause problems, including sewage back-ups and flooding.
- Water lines: Water lines are usually less of a concern but can still be damaged during foundation repair. If you see any water leaks, turn off your water main and call a plumber.
- Electrical lines: Electrical lines should always be treated with extreme caution. If you see any damage to the line, or if it appears to be sparking, contact your local utility company immediately.
- Interior Utilities: If your home is built on a slab foundation, the concrete slab is the foundation. Your home’s utilities — water lines, sewer lines, gas lines, and electrical wiring — are all embedded in the slab. If the foundation settles or cracks, these utilities can be damaged. This can lead to costly repairs or even replacement of the entire foundation.
When handling new concrete, you must ensure it is appropriately placed to avoid creating voids that can allow water to seep in and cause the slab to settle. If you live in an area with high water tables or if your home is built on fill dirt, you may also need to install a sump pump to remove water from around the foundation.
2. Footing Locations and Size
One of the most common problems with foundation repair is when the footings are either not appropriately located or are not the correct size. Footings support the weight of your house and are typically located around the perimeter. If they are not appropriately located, they can cause your house to settle and crack. If they are not the right size, they may not be able to support the weight of your house.
- Depth: Footings should be located a minimum of 12 inches below the finished grade. Footing depths may vary based on the soil type and the loads that the footing will support. It is essential to consult with a professional to determine the correct depth for your footings.
- Location: Footings should be located a minimum of 2 feet from the property line. This ensures that the footing will not encroach on your neighbor’s property. The location of the footings may also be affected by underground utilities or other obstacles.
3. Post Home Lift Issues
If you have had your home lifted, or are thinking about doing so, you may be wondering what common problems there are with this type of foundation repair. Here are three of the most common issues that you may encounter:
- Cracks in the foundation – they can occur when the soil underneath the foundation settles or shifts. If the cracks are left unrepaired, they can cause severe structural problems.
- Uneven floors – This is another common problem after a home lift. The floors may become uneven due to the shifting of the foundation.
- Plumbing problems – One of the most common problems with a lifted foundation is that the plumbing can become damaged. The pipes are not designed to be moved and may crack or break when the foundation is lifted.
If you plan on having your home lifted, it is vital to be aware of these potential problems. Be sure to discuss them with your contractor to be prepared for any issues that may arise.
If you are considering foundation repair, be sure to research all of your options. There are many different types of repairs that can be done, and each has its own set of pros and cons. Be sure to choose the best option for your home and your budget. You can avoid many common problems by preparing and informing about the repair process.