How Do You Fix Foundation Upheaval in Sugar Land, TX? Slabjacking, Underpinning, Drainage & More

Foundation upheaval is one of the more severe issues that homeowners may face, often leading to serious damage if not corrected quickly. Unlike settling, where parts of the foundation sink due to soil compaction or loss, upheaval involves the upward movement of the foundation. This phenomenon can compromise the structural integrity of the entire building. DuraTech Texas will explore what causes foundation upheaval, how to identify it, and the most effective repair options available.

What Causes Foundation Upheaval?

Foundation upheaval is primarily caused by changes in the moisture content of the soil, especially in soils that are heavily clay-based. The key contributors can include:
• Excessive Moisture: Excessive rainfall, poor drainage, or plumbing leaks can saturate the soil beneath the foundation, causing expansive soils to swell and push the foundation upward.
• Frost Heave: In colder climates, the freezing of moisture in the soil can also lead to upheaval. As the ground freezes, ice lenses form and expand, pushing the foundation upward.
• Improper Soil Preparation: Improper compaction of the soil before construction or the use of inappropriate backfill can lead to differential movements in the soil, including upheaval.

Signs of Foundation Upheaval

Recognizing the signs of foundation upheaval early can help prevent more extensive damage. Key indicators include:
• Cracks in Floors and Walls: Unlike cracks from settling, which are typically vertical, cracks from upheaval often appear as horizontal cracks that are widest at the top.
• Sticking Doors and Windows: As the foundation moves, it can distort the shape of frames, making doors and windows difficult to operate.
• Uneven Floors: Floors may start to slope or become uneven, and in severe cases, you may notice a central bulge in the floor.
• Separation of Walls from Floors: You might observe that walls begin to separate from floors, indicating that the foundation is moving independently of the structure it supports.

Repair Options for Foundation Upheaval

Addressing foundation upheaval requires professional intervention, and the choice of repair methods will depend on the underlying cause of the movement:
• Drainage Correction: Often, improving drainage around the foundation can reduce the issue. This may involve installing French drains, adjusting gutter systems, or re-grading the landscape to divert water away from the foundation.
• Moisture Barrier Installation: In areas with high soil moisture levels, installing moisture barriers around the foundation can help control the amount of water that penetrates the soil.
• Underpinning: For serious upheaval issues, underpinning the foundation with piers can stabilize the foundation. Piers extend deep into the ground below the expansive soil layer, anchoring the foundation in stable, non-expansive soil.
• Root Barriers: If tree roots are contributing to the soil moisture changes, installing root barriers can prevent further moisture loss and soil expansion near the foundation.
• Slabjacking: For slab foundations experiencing upheaval, slabjacking (pumping a cement like mixture under the slab to lift or stabilize it) can be an effective solution.

Foundation Inspection & Repair Services in Crosby, Cypress, Friendswood & Greater Houston, Texas

Foundation upheaval is a serious issue that requires timely and effective intervention to preserve the structural integrity of your home. If you suspect your foundation is experiencing upheaval, it is important to consult with a foundation repair specialist who can assess the situation and recommend the best course of action. Ignoring the signs of upheaval can lead to increasingly severe damage, making repairs more complex and costly. With the right approach, however, you can correct the issue and protect your home from future damage. For foundation inspection and repairs, contact DuraTech Texas today.