5 Construction Flaws Can Cause Foundation Damage

Common Question About Foundation Problems

A new home is only as good as the foundation upon which the construction is built. Your new house needs a strong foundation in order to remain solid throughout the seasons and the years. You can avoid expensive and unexpected foundation repairs by ensuring that these construction flaws are avoided:

1. Rapid Curing

Concrete that cures too quickly can crack before construction is even completed. To prevent this from happening, be sure to keep the concrete moist during curing.

2. Off-Level Slabs

Concrete slabs should be laid level or according to the grade of your property. Slabs that are off-level can encourage uneven settling or shifting of your home’s foundation.

3. Wet or Dry Concrete

Concrete should have a moisture ratio that is appropriate for the environment in which it is poured. Concrete that’s too wet initially may retain a high level of moisture, which can actually cause cracking during freezing weather because the water inside the concrete expands. Conversely, concrete that’s too dry will lose flexibility and be more prone to cracking during the natural shifting of a home.

4. Voids in Concrete Slabs

Foundation concrete should be of a uniform, solid density. Hollow spots, known as voids, represent structural weaknesses and problems waiting to happen. Voids can cause minor cracks or even total failure of a foundation section.

5. Uncompact Soil

The soil underneath your foundation needs to be properly compacted before the foundation pilings and slab are installed. Soil that isn’t pre-compacted can shift quite a bit the first time it gets wet, which can spell big problems for your new foundation.

To learn more about protecting your home’s foundation, contact Structured Foundation Repairs, Inc. at 972-484-1200. We provide comprehensive foundation inspections, drainage corrections, and repairs for homes in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Visit us online for more information about our services.