A house becomes unlevel when its foundation shifts or settles unevenly. This can happen due to several natural and structural factors that affect the soil and support system beneath your home. Here are the most common causes:
🌧️ 1. Soil Movement & Moisture Changes
- In areas like Houston and other parts of Texas, the expansive clay soil swells when wet and shrinks when dry.
- These cycles create upward and downward pressure on the foundation, causing sections to rise or sink unevenly.
🌳 2. Tree Roots
- Large trees planted too close to the house can draw moisture from the soil, leading to uneven drying and soil shrinkage.
- Roots can also physically disrupt the foundation if they grow underneath.
💧 3. Poor Drainage
- Water pooling around your home due to bad drainage or clogged gutters can erode soil under the foundation, causing sinking or shifting.
🛠️ 4. Poor Construction or Inadequate Foundation
- If the foundation was not properly designed or compacted during construction, it may be more likely to settle unevenly over time.
🕳️ 5. Plumbing Leaks
- Undetected leaks under the slab or crawl space can saturate the soil, weakening its ability to support your house.
⏳ 6. Natural Aging
- Over decades, small shifts in soil and materials can accumulate, especially in older homes, making them gradually become unlevel.
🧱 In Summary:
Your house can become unlevel due to soil expansion and contraction, water problems, tree roots, poor drainage, plumbing leaks, or just aging. Regular inspections and early intervention can help prevent bigger foundation issues.