| A slab foundation is designed with concrete
footings and /or underground piers and concrete floors. A pier and beam foundation
consists of either wood or concrete piers that support beams above the ground. These beams
support the floor joists and the floor joists supports the floor. A pier and beam
foundation has a crawlspace under the home. It’s a good idea to inspect this area
from time to time for plumbing leaks, flooding, rodent activity, and other potential
problems. |
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| Water should not stand next to the
foundation for an extended period of time. The moisture in the soils will cause the
foundation to heave in that area. The source of the water can be rain, or any number of
possible plumbing leaks around the home. Repairing leaks is a must. Soil next to the
foundation should be pitched in a way that will drain rainwater away from the home. It may
be necessary to build the soils up next to the home with sandy loam or topsoil. Just
remember, dirt should not extend higher than 2 inches below the bottom course of brick for
a slab foundation or half way up the perimeter footing of a pier & beam foundation. |
| If clay soils next to the foundation
becomes too dry, they will shrink, crack, and pull away from the perimeter of the
foundation. The subsoil then loses its ability to support the foundation. Sooner or later
the foundation will crack and settle into this void. These soil cracks can also admit
water during heavy rains. The water will then wash the soil out from under the foundation.
This will only make things worse. When the soil starts to separate from the foundation by
up to an 1/8 of an inch, the soil needs water. Watering of the foundation should be
uniform in order to minimize the possibility of exerting uneven pressure on the
foundation. A sprinkler system, if installed and utilized properly, can provide the best
protection. |
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The next best option is to place
soaker hoses 12-18 inches away from the foundation. Water at least a few days a week,
10-15 minutes at a time, during the dry seasons of the year. A (Y) at the faucet and an
in-line timer will reduce the efforts of watering. One last note, do not plant trees
within 10 feet of home. Surface rooting trees, such as Willows, Mulberries and Maples,
should be planted even farther away from the home. |
