Soil plays a major role in the health of your foundation because it’s the material your home sits on. Different types of soil react differently to moisture and pressure, which can cause the foundation to move, crack, or settle over time.
Here’s how soil affects your foundation:
- Expansive clay soil
- This type of soil swells when wet and shrinks when dry. These constant changes create pressure and movement beneath the foundation, leading to cracks and shifting.
- Loose or sandy soil
- Doesn’t hold its shape well. If not properly compacted during construction, it can settle unevenly, causing parts of the foundation to sink or tilt.
- Poor drainage in soil
- When water collects around the foundation, it softens the soil, reducing its ability to support the structure. This can lead to sinking or wall damage.
- Soil erosion
- Over time, heavy rains or poor grading can wash away the soil under the foundation, causing structural instability.
The type, moisture content, and stability of soil directly impact the condition of your foundation. That’s why it’s important to maintain proper drainage and consult experts when building or repairing foundations on tricky soil types.