5 Signs of a Shifting Foundation

If you own a home in Dallas-Fort Worth, a shifting foundation is always in the back of your mind.

The soil in Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex varies from well-draining sand, expansive clay, cracking clays, and low strength soil according to the Texas Almanac.

Because of these shrinking and swelling soil variations and several other conditions Texas foundations can shift. This movement results in damage, not only to your foundation, but to your home.

5 Indications of a Shifting Foundation

Knowing the signs of a shifting foundation, lets you take steps to prevent extensive damage to your home in the future.

1. Cracks in Floors

Cracks developing in floors are indicators of foundation movement. There might also be signs of ceramic tiles lifting or humps in wooden flooring.

Hairline cracks are most likely from normal settling, but larger gaps are signs of serious foundation shifting.

2. Sinking Foundation

Check the perimeter of the foundation for vertical cracks and dips. These can lead to much larger problems, if left unrepaired.

3. Interior Wall Cracks

It’s normal to notice hairline cracks along drywall ceilings and wall corners. Usually, this is normal settling.

Serious wall cracks to watch for are large, irregular gaps. These jagged cracks are signs of a shifting foundation.

4. Doors Not Functioning Properly

One of the most noticeable signs of foundation movement is when doors and windows don’t close or open properly. They might stick at the top or drag along the flooring. This indicates the floor is uneven.

It might also be hard to open and close the windows.

5. Countertops Pulling Away from Wall

Like floors, countertops also become warped and pull away from the wall when the foundation moves. The most noticeable area is behind the sink.

Foundation movement can cause the countertop to separate from the backsplash.

What Conditions Cause a Shifting Foundation?

The most common problem of a shifting foundation is the Texas soil. As it expands, contracts, or sinks, the foundation settles and moves.

Other causes include poor drainage, extreme weather, plumbing leaks, and flooding. These conditions play a big role in a foundation’s structural integrity.

What Types of Repairs Fix a Shifting Foundation?

If you discovered any of the signs of a shifting foundation, there are several options for repair. These are five common foundation repair methods.

• Steel Pier: The steel pier foundation repair bears high loads by inserting steel piers up to 75 feet deep into the soil.
• Steel Transition Pier: This offers stability using a mix of concrete and steel. Steel transition pier is an economical option.
• Mud Jacking: This highly effective foundation repair method restores the concrete foundation slab. Mud Jacking fills any voids in the soil and lifts the concrete slab to its original position.
• Drilled Pier: Also known as caisson, drilled pier foundation repair offers excellent stability in the expanding and contracting clay of the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
• Helical Pier: The eco-friendly, and shortened job time of the helical pier foundation repair is suitable for residential and commercial properties.

It’s important to consult with a foundation repair professional to select which repair method is best for your shifting foundation.

Prevent Serious Home Damage from a Shifting Foundation

A shifting foundation is a common problem in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. It causes interior and exterior structure damage.

If you notice any of the signs of a shifting foundation, a foundation repair specialist can assess the damage and explain the repair options.