What Causes Foundation Problems In Adelaide?
There are various reasons why foundation problems occur. These include:
Water Leaks in the Foundation
In situations when there is a leak under the foundation, it may soak and wash away the supporting soil. This will create a drop, shift or crack of the building’s slab and foundation. The larger and more prolonged the leak, the great the damage can become.
Subsidence Due to Reactive Soils
These change with moisture content. Soils types that are reactive in this way are often referred to as ‘plastic’. They swell when wet, known as ‘heaving’, and shrink when dry, known as ‘subsidence’. Such changes in physical characteristics affect foundations.
Mature Trees Near the House
Problems can arise when roots come into contact with the foundation, or when there is a disturbance of the moisture content of soil surrounding the foundation. The severity of the damage may differ, depending on the species and size of trees, which makes it a bad idea to have trees close to the house.
Poorly Compacted Soil
Soil types that can be compacted have poor drainage properties, which affects foundations of structures. For example, with changing moisture levels clay heaves and contracts, putting stress on the footings of your building. Over time, you will need foundation repair.