Foundation deterioration can be caused by a variety of sources, but they always fall into one of three categories: pressure, lack of support, or faults. Despite the fact that each of these issues is unique, they nonetheless express themselves in similar ways. The most typical signs of foundation problems include spreading cracks, unevenness, dampness, sinking, and heaving. You may discover secondary issues such as wood rot or mold if the damage to your Clarksburg foundation has been there for some time. Because the symptoms are very consistent regardless of the cause, it is vital to get professional assistance in determining the exact cause and the right treatment.
A basic fault or shortcoming in the building or structure of your Clarksburg property’s foundation is the least likely but most significant underlying reason. Defects can develop as a result of bad design, such as architectural errors, or the use of inferior materials, such as improperly mixed concrete. In either situation, the damage could be difficult to repair, and foundation replacement, in part or in whole, would almost certainly be required. On the other hand, damage caused by pressure, or a lack of support can typically be repaired and avoided.
Only the ground can exert sufficient pressure to cause damage to a structure (and incidentally, issues with support tend to be soil-based as well). The most prevalent soil in West Virginia is Monongahela silt loam, however, it isn’t always kind to foundations. Unfortunately, with time, this type of soil settles, creating a gradual shift in the foundation as well as the production of fractures and structural weaknesses that allow water to access the foundation and cause substantial damage. This type of soil may begin to move if it is continually flooded or drenched. When this happens, the hydrostatic pressure around a house can rise significantly, increasing the likelihood of soil runoff. Both of these issues can lead to foundation deterioration, including fragmentation, sinking, cracking, and lateral displacement.