5 Tips to Prevent Home Foundation Issues

Home foundation issues can be caused by many things, including water damage, high humidity levels, and failing to install the foundation correctly. They can be very problematic for homeowners. The first step to preventing home foundation issues is to identify their causes.

5 Tips to Preventing Home Foundation Issues

What causes home foundation problems?

Home foundation problems are often caused by poor foundation design or poor construction. They can also be caused by heavy snow, strong winds, or extreme weather conditions.

Common causes leading to home foundation problems are:

  • Poor construction leading to cracks in the foundation and sagging floors.
  • Designing around old foundations that haven’t been updated for modern-day living standards.
  • Heavy snow or strong winds can cause structural damage to your home’s foundation.

If you find that your home is sinking, it is most likely because there is not enough support from underneath to hold up it weight. Holes in the floor or ceiling can also lead to problems with shifting floors and settling walls.

The best way to prevent these complications is by making sure that there are no nails in the floor or holes in the ceiling.

5 tips to prevent home foundation issues before they occur

When it comes to home foundations, there are many bad things that can happen to them, and if you aren’t careful, they may happen to you. Many homeowners have learned this the hard way.

These tips will help you create a home that is more resistant to foundation issues and will keep it in better shape for years to come. To prevent problems from occurring in your home’s foundation, follow these tips and keep your foundation safe for years to come:

1. Fix Plumbing Issues

Leaks in your plumbing can be an issue; they can leak into the foundation, cause mold & mildew, or even affect where water is being pumped. Some leaks will also seep into the ground that covers your house and make it shift slightly. Unfortunately, homeowners often don’t know this problem is happening until serious structural issues come up. Therefore, routinely having your plumbing inspected for leaks will prevent this problem more often than not.

2. Improve water drainage

Every year, millions of gallons of water seep into homes and destroy floors, walls, and ceilings. The culprit is often a drainage system that isn’t up to par. To avoid this problem and keep your home’s foundation dry and stable, improve water drainage away from your home by using gutters and drains.

3. Keep trees away from your home

Trees can be a beautiful part of any landscape, but they can also cause foundation issues. Tree roots can invade and/or dehydrate the soil under your home and cause serious problems to its foundation. With trees growing around your home, it is important to keep them away from the foundation.

4. Check for cracks or gaps in your home’s foundation

Foundation issues can affect the structural integrity of your home and lead to serious safety hazards. A simple check for cracks or gaps in your home’s foundation can help prevent this disaster before it occurs. Other basic needs for a safe, sturdy foundation are to have a minimum of 12-inch underlayment, 8-inch concrete slab and 12-inch subfloor.

5. Stop overwatering your plants

Overwatering your plants can cause the roots to rot, which in turn can lead to foundation issues. Overwatering also creates stagnant pools of water that gradually seep into the ground, which can also affect your home’s foundation. So, before you water the heck out of your plants, remember that it could lead to serious harm to your home’s foundation!

Conclusion

Home foundations are one of the most important aspects of a home. A poorly designed foundation can lead to a house that is not structurally sound. So, it is important for homeowners to hire professionals who know how to make the foundation as sturdy as possible.

Contact us today if you have any questions about how to prevent home foundation issues from popping up.

Concrete vs. Steel Piers: Which Works for my Foundation ?

Are you wondering which between concrete and steel piers is better for your foundation? Well, both are suitable structural supports, and the choice depends on your set of circumstances. The following considerations will help determine what best works to resolve your foundation issues.

Concrete vs. Steel Piers: Which Works for my Foundation ?

Budget

The amount of money available for repairs determines the methods and materials you will employ in this project. Concrete piers are a convenient option if you are on a limited budget, since they are much cheaper to construct than steel piers. The installation equipment for concrete piers also happens to be less expensive.

Drainage

It would be unwise to install steel piers in soils with poor drainage because they would rust over time. The rust can go undetected and, over time, cause extensive damage to the piers and adversely affect the structural integrity of your building. The coating on the steel does not necessarily guarantee a longer lifespan, since the abrading that happens during the coat application process can decrease the lifespan. Concrete does not rust and would thus be a preferable option for soils with poor drainage, while steel works fine for well-drained soils.

Soil depth

Piers must be drilled up to the point of refusal, to provide adequate support to weak foundations. Soils that are not that deep have a low point of refusal, which works well for concrete piers. For instance, if the point of refusal ranges between 6-10 feet, concrete piers at this depth can provide the necessary uplift capacity and support and there is no need to dig further. On the other hand, deeper soils that go up to 22 feet require steel piers since they can be drilled deep enough to reach a solid bedrock and not be affected by soil movement. Concrete piers on deep soil are affected by soil movement affecting the stability of the foundation.

Landscaping

Steel pier foundation repair is environmental-friendly and minimally invasive because excavations are not as extensive. It  is thus  a better option if maintaining the landscape takes precedence over all other wants. Unlike steel piers, concrete pier foundation repairs involve extensive excavations, which is often invasive to the landscape, destroying all the flora and fauna that you so much seek to maintain.

The bottom line

Both types of piers are suitable for your foundation, and the choice should depend on your situation based on the above considerations.

Hargrave Custom Foundation Repair offers a wide range of foundation repair services in the entire Dallas metroplex, ensuring the structural integrity of your building remains intact. Contact us to get an estimate.

Is It Safe to Live in a Property with Foundation Issues?

If you own residential or commercial property with foundation issues and you’re wondering whether to continue living there or not or probably, you’re planning to buy a property with foundation issues, then read on to understand more about foundation issues.

 Is It Safe to Live in a Property with Foundation Issues?

How Safe is a Property with Foundation Issues? 
Well, if your house or commercial building has foundation issues, you can live there depending on the multitude of the damage. Some people will continue living, but others will not have peace of mind.

If your property has serious cracks and you’re not comfortable living there, it is best to fix the issue immediately to avoid serious effects and further damage. This can keep your family and occupants safe. You will also avoid costly repairs that come with extreme foundation damage.

Consider the Importance of a Foundation 
A foundation is an important place on your property. It keeps the entire building straight up, and that is why it needs to stay in good condition always to support the structure.

With a good foundation, you won’t have to worry about underground water damage that can negatively affect the ground within the affected area.

So, if you value your property, consider a foundation repair once you notice various issues with the foundation. You do not want to stay in fear, thinking that your foundation could crumble at any time.

What Foundation Issues Should You Worry About?
Not all foundation issues are that serious. But if you notice cracked walls, uneven floors, mold accumulation, sticky doors and windows, and water damage, then consider getting help immediately.

Delayed repairs can lead to serious damage, and you will pay a lot of money in the long run. Your tenants may also move out to better structures.

Fixing Foundation Problems
Your property is probably one of your major investments, and you’d do everything possible to protect it against serious foundation repairs. If you live in Dallas and you’re experiencing foundation issues on your commercial or residential property, contact us today for exceptional services worth your money.

4 Tips to Prevent Foundation Issues in Your Home

Most homeowners overlook foundation issues until it is too late. This can result in more damage that could cost you more money in the long run. Foundation problems arise for various reasons. This is why it is imperative to know the main cause of the foundation issue to determine the best way to fix the issues. Here are several ways to prevent foundation issues.

4 Tips to Prevent Foundation Issues in Your Home

Water the Soil around the Foundation
Keep the soil around your foundation watered, thus preventing it from shrinking and drying off. Dry soil will contract and cause the foundation to crack and become unstable. This is why you need to keep the soil watered to prevent damage and retain moisture in the soil.
 
Schedule Plumbing Inspection
Plumbing issues such as leaks in the foundation slabs can cause serious foundation issues, leading to costly repairs. It is imperative to schedule regular inspections of your foundation at least once or twice per year. Let an expert do the job for effective results.

Build a Drainage System 
Your foundation is at risk if water keeps accumulating within. Install in-ground drains and downspouts to direct water away from the foundation. If there are no downspouts in your foundation, consider buying them immediately and installing them to eliminate stagnant water around your foundation.

Cut Trees around the Building 
If you have trees and shrubs around your house, you need to cut them down because they can suck the water around and cause the soil to dry. The soil needs to maintain moisture to avoid drying off. This is why you should plant trees away from the house to avoid reoccurring issues that can damage the foundation. If there are already large trees that you can’t cut down, you can install a root barrier to keep the roots away from your house.

The Bottom Line
Implementing the tips above can help you avoid damage to your foundation. However, this may be a lot of work if you have busy daily schedules. Contact us today for all your foundation needs, worth a bang for your buck.

3 Effective Maintenance Tips for Your Foundation

Your foundation is an essential component of your house that needs proper maintenance. Unfortunately, many people forget to give it maximum attention, which leads to issues that can affect the entire structure. This is why you need to keep your foundation well-maintained to avoid frequent problems. Here are the most effective maintenance tips for your foundation.

3 Effective Maintenance Tips for Your Foundation

Schedule Annual Inspections 
Inspecting your foundation is a crucial step that helps you identify potential issues that you can repair earlier before they worsen. Find time to walk around your foundation after a few months and check if there are any changes.

Some insects invade the foundation and make it a resting place and a home. Insects can dig holes, and this can lead to many risks. During the inspection, an expert will identify issues in the foundation and repair them before it is too late.

Maintain Moisture in the Soil
The soil around your home needs to maintain a certain moisture level to avoid getting dry. When the soil dries, it can expand and contract, leading to cracks in the foundation. Therefore, water the foundation often to retain moisture within the area.

Some people may want to install an underground watering system. While this is a sound system, it can cause various issues during the rainy season. It is also expensive, and you may not afford it. You can opt for an automatic lawn sprinkler since it is cost-effective and efficient.

Retain a Sound Drainage System 
When water accumulates around your foundation, it can cause many issues that may take you time to repair the foundation. It can cause upheaval or a shift and strain your foundation.

The soil will not be able to expel moisture properly, leading to more issues. Therefore, install a sound drainage system around your home to drain water away from the foundation.  Install gutters to discharge large water volumes, especially during the rainy seasons.

The Bottom Line
Proper foundation maintenance is a crucial component that will save you money on frequent repairs. Apply the tips above to give your foundation adequate care. If you’d like to get foundation maintenance services or learn more, get in touch with us, and we will be glad to solve all your house foundation issues.

Help! There are Cracks in my Foundation

Nobody wants to deal with home repairs, especially not in the summer when you want to go on vacation with your family or friends. The longer days, warmer temperatures beckon you to lounge by the pool or throw burgers on the barbecue, but the hot, sunny days of summer may be the very time cracks in your foundation problems appear.

Help! There are Cracks in my Foundation

What causes foundation damage?

Cracks in the foundation of your home are caused, ironically, by the warm summer weather you enjoy so much. Keep in mind, the foundation of your home is a concrete slab or wall that supports the house. Beneath that foundation is a soil base. During the winter months, when the air is cooler and more moisture is present, the soil is damp and swollen with moisture. That gives your home’s foundation a nice, cushy base to sit on. As snow and rain accumulate over the winter months, extra moisture seeps beneath the foundation. Sometimes, it even seeps into the concrete because of imperfections such as cracks or gaps.

In the summer, when temperatures soar and the days are longer, all that excess moisture evaporates. The soil becomes dry and compacted. This creates a gap that can be filled with-you guessed it-excess water. So begins the ugly cycle of too much or too little moisture beneath your home. This nonstop cycle of compact, shrunken soil and loose, swollen soil causes the foundation to continually shift. As a homeowner, you may not even be aware of these shifts, but the concrete suffers.

Any moisture under, around, or in the foundation will expand during the cold, winter months. This stresses the concrete. As the hot summer temperatures dry out the moisture, tiny cracks begin to appear in the concrete. The cracks may be on the underside of the slab where you can’t see them. Soon, these untethered cracks will grow and spread until you have major foundation damage.

What are the signs of foundation damage?

Even before you see the cracking in the concrete, you might begin to see clues that you have foundation trouble.  Here are some signs to look for:

  • cracks in walls or ceilings
  • cracks along basement walls or gaps between cinder blocks
  • gaps around windows and doors that previously fit
  • roof seems to sag in spots
  • rafters may appear out of line or have cracks in wood
  • floor slants or seems uneven
  • water pools around the foundation

What to do if you suspect damage?

Don’t panic. Call a professional to come out for an inspection. He will quickly assess the damage and develop a proper plan of action. Things he might suggest include installing gutters or French drains to remove water near foundation walls, using jacks to lift portions of the foundation, healing cracks and applying a sealer.

In the Dallas area, contact Hargrave Custom Foundation Repair & Concrete Raising. They are experts in correcting foundation damage caused by the unpredictable Texas weather.  Contact us today.

Foundation Issues to Watch Out for During the Summer

There are many things to worry about during the summer. The heat, the bugs, and the sunburns are just a few of them. However, did you know that there is another thing you should be worried about? Foundation issues! Here are three foundation issues to watch out for during the summer.

Foundation Issues to Watch Out for During the Summer

Foundation Cracking

That’s right – as temperatures rise and your foundation expands or contracts with the temperature change, it can start to crack. This can cause a lot of issues such as mold growth, insects nesting, and termites.

What you can do about this is periodically inspect your foundation for any cracks and call an expert if they are found. They will be able to fix it before the issue becomes too serious.

Foundation Settling

As temperatures rise during the summer months, your home’s soil expands or contracts with the heat changes, which causes your foundation to move inwards or outwards due to its weight. This movement could lead to settling issues where parts of your home end up not being level, causing anything from damage in flooring or water leakage problems. If you notice these things happening at all, contact an expert right away.

Foundation Efflorescence

Efflorescence is a mineral deposit that appears on the surface of concrete during high-temperature periods. As water evaporates from your foundation, it leaves behind minerals and salts, which can cause damage to your house’s exterior or lead to corrosion in metal parts like gutters, downspouts, vents, or air conditioner units. If you notice any efflorescent spots at all, don’t hesitate – call an expert right away!

A lot can happen to your foundation during the summer. If you notice cracks in your walls, sagging floors or doors sticking, or any mineral deposits, it is time to call a professional. The extreme temperatures and high humidity this time of year are tough on building materials. To avoid costly repairs later on, contact us today!

4 Preventative Care Tips to Prevent Foundation Shifts and Cracks

Whether you’re dealing with an existing home or new construction, there are specific steps homeowners can take to minimize or prevent foundation shifts and cracks. The four foundation preventative care steps below should get you started.

4 Preventative Care Tips to Prevent Foundation Shifts and Cracks

1. Install French Drains

Installing French drains from the start is a good idea to help control the level of moisture in the soil that surrounds your foundation.  French drains can handle large amounts of moisture from your foundation’s soil. They will protect your foundation from ground water that could cause a number of moisture-related issues like basement flooding or expanding soil that adds pressure on your foundation and causes cracking, bowing and weakening.

2. Inspect your Foundation for Cracks, Damage or Insects

Take a moment to walk around your home’s foundation and check for signs of trouble, especially during the summer months. You’ll definitely want to plug in any hairline cracks or holes you see, since insects can accelerate foundation deterioration. If you have a beam foundation or pier, inspect the crawlspace for signs of:

  • Mildew
  • Moisture
  • Wood rot

3. Fill In Minor Cracks

If you notice your foundation or basement walls have major cracks, it might be too late already. However, if you see any minor cracks, this isn’t something you should necessarily worry about. Often, you can repair minor cracks yourself easily by:

  • Cleaning hairline fissures: Sweep away dust, dab away any powder that remains using a wet cloth or allow the area to dry completely.
  • Filling in gaps: Use epoxy glue to fill in minor cracks in the foundation. You can also use other readily available mixes designed particularly for do-it-yourself foundation repair.
  • Monitoring cracks: Keep an eye on the cracks over time to ensure they don’t become longer or wider. If they do, call an expert foundation technician to come fix the problem.

4. Protect the Foundation from Trees

Large trees can cause problems for your foundation. Trees require moisture to live and their large roots draw in the water from the soil around your foundation, damaging it. This is known as transpiration. Large trees can suck up many gallons of water each day from the soil. Plant trees a good distance from your home to protect your foundation (a minimum of 15 to 30 feet depending on what type of tree it is that you planted). You might want to check with your nurseryman about the estimated root size and moisture requirements of any trees you’re thinking about planting on your landscape.

Foundation repairs could cost you thousands, but you can eliminate many problems, like with other parts of your house, with proper preventative care and maintenance. The steps above are a good start.

Contact us at Hargrave Custom Foundation Repair for an estimate on our foundation preventative care or foundation repair services.  We serve the entire Dallas metroplex area for your residential or commercial property needs.

A Guide to Proper Drainage Correction

Having a proper drainage system ensures that your home stays in good condition at all times. It is the solution to fundamental home problems such as water pooling, which is the leading cause of landscape destruction, mold, and foundation issues. Poor drainage leads to hefty home repair costs, and hence it should be corrected well on time.

If you have a spring, standing water, wet basement, or a river or swamp through your yard, you may want to hire a professional drainage contractor. At Hargrave Custom Foundation Repair, we offer professional foundation repair services for commercial properties and residential homeowners in the Dallas metroplex and the surrounding areas. We have the needed knowledge and experience to help you adjust your existing drainage condition or create a completely new one.

A Guide to Drainage Correction

Drainage Methods 

We employ the newest drainage systems to correct drainage problems, including French drains, Swales, Channel drains, Atrium drains, Area drains, and Grade work. However, this may require soil testing of the slope your home sits on.

Other potential areas of drainage correction that may arise include rain barrels, downspout drainage, dry wells, and other necessary installations associated with drainage systems. Whatever the circumstances, there are various reasons for drainage corrections. Hargrave Custom Foundation Repair is ready to confront all your needs with an exceptional level of professionalism, guaranteeing you the best outcome.

Why Drainage Corrections?

If you’ve by any chance had a soggy lawn, then you’re aware of how such unfortunate situations are more than just simple nuisances and annoyances, especially at times where it seems like a river was passing through your yard.

They can also possibly destroy or damage your home’s foundation and other facets, which can lead to even more problems.

Get Ahead of Your Drainage Issues with Help from Hargrave Custom Foundation Repair

If you suspect a drainage issue within your yard, don’t wait for the expensive proof to show up. Instead, get ahead of your drainage issues by getting in touch with our team of professionals. We will help you with a proper drainage solution, no matter the size. Contact us today or request a free estimate from our website.

What You Need To Know About Steel Pipe Piers

There are a number of different materials and tools for your foundation construction and repair needs, depending on building types, soil condition, and the foundation type utilized for your home, business, or industrial building. Of the wide variety of foundation materials, steel pipe piers are used in many types of construction.

Hargrave’s steel pipe pier is used for both exterior and interior foundation stabilization. These piers provide trouble-free foundation stability for the lifetime of your home and, in almost all cases, are backed by our lifetime, transferable warranty. Steel piers are also recommended by structural engineers and are accepted by VA, FHA and conventional loan companies.

What You Need To Know About Steel Pipe Piers

What are Steel Foundation Piers?

Steel pipe piers are long columns made of concrete driven into the ground to support the foundation of your house. Unlike drilled helical piers, concrete piers are installed faster since curing time is not necessary.

These piers are made of steel and provide the strength needed for the concrete piers to support the foundation and the building above it.

How Are Steel Pipe Piers Installed?

Steel piers are hydraulically advanced to rock or other suitable load bearing stratum which, in most locations, will be deeper than either drilled concrete piers or pressed concrete pilings.

Work With Professionals

Are you in need of professional foundation repair services for your home or commercial property within the Dallas metroplex? Hargrave Custom Foundation Repair is your ultimate solution, offering a variety of foundation repairs. Please contact us for the best foundation repair services. You can also visit our blog for more details about our work.