Foundation control and stabilization

Climate and moisture control

Homes are built on many different kinds of ground.  Expansive clay soils are found in many areas of the country.  If your home is on expansive clay, you will want to understand what you can do to care for and make your house healthy.

Your home’s foundation must be kept stable weather it is a concrete slab, pier and beam or basement. There are three primary ways to accomplish this goal and keep you house healthy. Based on changing weather conditions, excessive moisture, freezing soils or drought many foundations tend to move from their original position. Controlling moisture around the perimeter and even under a house is critical.

Rain gutters are the best way to control perimeter moisture from roof runoff and perimeter soil erosion during rainy weather. Proper grading and drainage away from the structure is equally important. Any spot where water can pool can cause expansion of the soil causing pressure to push the house.  Finally, a lawn irrigation system will help keep moisture even year round. If you don’t have a built in lawn an irrigation system, consider a simple soaker hose if you live in clay soil areas. A soaker hose on a timer set to saturate the soil to about 18” deep every 3-5 days can help prevent excessive movement of a slab. Just make sure you are not over-watering a particular area and that the moisture is even around the perimeter.

Foundation movement can cause cracks to interior and exterior walls.  It can also cause stress to the drain lines under the house to the point of cracking.  This could lead to an quick and serious movement and enevitibly a more immediate and expensive problem to repair. Watch your weather and house closely for signs of movement as weather changes and prepare to take the necessary measures if movement gets out of control.   

Regardless of they type of house you have, there are some necessary tasks you will have to do stay on top of things.  Learn more and keep up with your house with a free My Healthy House.com profile.  Stay tuned and make your house the best it can be.  

If you have any comments or suggestions on how this blog can be improved including suggested articles or constructive criticism, please send us feedback.

© Healthy House, Inc. 2009