The foundation of any building is extremely important because it supports the whole structure on top of it. That’s why the foundation needs periodic inspections to help catch any issues or damage before it becomes too big an issue. When it comes to foundations, there are a few different ways it may crack over time. Here’s what you should look out for.
Extreme Weather or Weather Changes
Even if you cannot visibly see it, the temperature influences the foundation of every building. This isn’t normally a big deal, but it can lead to damage over time as the weather changes. Additionally, extreme weather can speed up the process.
Bad Soil Compacting and Soil Creep
The soil that the foundation sits on is extremely important. Soil supports the foundation. Bad soil can lead to a lot of damage and can easily crack the foundation. Poor soil compacting during construction can lead to this damage. Soil creep, which is when the soil underneath moves slowly, can damage the foundation as well
Poor Drainage
Water is very destructive and can cause a lot of damage to even the strongest materials. Normally, the foundation of a building uses good drainage systems to prevent water buildup and prevent as much damage as possible. But sometimes something goes wrong, and the water builds up and slowly damages the foundation until it starts to crack. But you can repair the cracks you find in the foundation with the right tools.
Natural Disasters
Sadly, there’s no great way to prevent this issue, as no one can stop a natural disaster from damaging your home. From earthquakes to hurricanes, there are many ways Mother Nature can damage the foundation of a building. It’s just one of the many ways that can cause your foundation to crack.
While foundational damage isn’t common in buildings, it’s something you need to keep your eye on. Try creating an inspection schedule you can follow to watch your foundation for cracks. This way you can catch and repair them early so that they don’t become a bigger issue in the future.
