One of the most common culprits that lead to foundation repair is the foundation soil. When the soil or ground the foundation sits on is compromised, the entire foundation will begin to crack, sink, and become uneven. Often soil erosion is one of the worst things that can happen to your foundation soil. Dallas Foundation Repair would like to share a few tips on how to prevent soil erosion that can lead to critical foundation damage.
What are the Effects of Soil Erosion?
Soil erosion is a common problem in Dallas and its surrounding areas. When large amounts of water run underneath the foundation of the home, the water can begin to break up and pull the soil underneath the foundation away. Minor floods or even rain can easily lead to major soil erosion. When the soil erodes, it is never a perfect layer. Instead, it is usually in pockets and smaller areas which will lead to the foundation collapsing, leaning or cracking. Doors and windows will become stuck or unable to fully close and the home structure is compromised. It is very important to do everything possible to prevent soil erosion
Ways to Prevent Soil Erosion
Maintain Your Gutters: Rain can lead to major soil erosion, specifically when all of the water comes pouring off of your roof and right next to the foundation. There is a response to this problem and that is gutter systems. Gutters are designed to capture all of the water flowing off of your roof when it is raining and directs the water away from the home. The gutter system is vital in keeping rain water away from your foundation. As a homeowner, you will want to keep your gutter clean and maintained to ensure your foundation’s soil never erodes away.
Ground Level Drainage System
French drains, channels, and surface drains are great types of ground level drainage systems that can help keep water away from the soil. Not all homes will have a ground level drainage system, so you may want to take that step and have one installed. If you live in rainy areas or a flood zone, you will want to have a ground level drainage system installed to ensure the longevity of your foundation and the soil it sits on.
Plan Your Landscaping Carefully to Reduce Erosion
When deciding on your landscaping, you may want to avoid planting anything too close to the home. Plants need water but they also draw water to them. If the roots begin to spread underneath the foundation, they will draw in the water and they will begin to erode the soil. Make sure the irrigation system is also carefully planned out. You do not want any of the sprinklers hitting the side of the home or puddle near the foundation.
Slab Foundation Repair in Lewisville, Flower Mound, Carrollton, Plano, Richardson, Grapevine, Garland, Mesquite, Grand Prairie, Arlington & Great Dallas, Texas
By using these basic tips you can avoid soil erosion that will lead to major foundation problems. When you have signs of foundation damage contact Dallas Foundation Repair for a foundation inspection and repair today.
