Foundation heave is a phenomenon where the soil layer beneath a foundation moves upward after being saturated with water. To prevent further damage to the foundation and superstructure, it is crucial to identify and control the signs and symptoms of heave pressure at an early stage.
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Foundation Heave Common Symptoms
One of the most obvious signs of foundation heave is the presence of cracks and bowed slabs. Other signs include cracks in drywall, brickwork, doorframes, lifted sidewalks, and tilted slab sections. These signs not only pose a significant concern for the stability of the building but also give an unpleasant appearance to the structure. Moreover, they can cause disruption to the functionality of the building and interfere with the quality of life of the occupants.
It is important to note that controlling the signs of foundation heave early on is crucial. Delaying the necessary repairs can lead to more extensive damage and even compromise the integrity of the entire structure. Therefore, it is recommended to seek professional help as soon as any of the signs of foundation heave become apparent.
What are the Signs of Foundation Heave?
Before a foundation heave occurs, there are certain signs that can be observed. One of these signs is the presence of cracks that resemble spider webs or chicken feet. These cracks need to intersect with at least two other cracks to indicate a potential foundation heave. Another sign to look out for is when these cracks intersect and create a triangular shape. This is particularly significant when it occurs in a location where the heave is at its greatest. By being aware of these signs, homeowners and building owners can take preventative measures to address the issue before it becomes a bigger problem.
The foundation of a structure can experience damage due to heave during or after construction. The damage can accelerate a few years after the completion of the construction. One sign of distress is the falling or dying of trees around the structure within a year or two. Additionally, flatwork like driveways, patios, and garage slabs adjacent to the foundation may shift upward and away from the foundation. Water leakage can also be observed from under slab plumbing, pools, or ponds nearby the building.
The moisture content of the upper soil layer underneath the foundation may increase, and the soil plasticity index can be greater than 25. The soil beneath the perimeter beam may be easy to probe, and an in-ground pool near the structure may be out of level. The site drainage may slope toward the foundation, and excavation around the foundation may reveal wet, muddy soil in the upper few meters below the perimeter grade beam.
The gaps between grade beams, piers, or foundation repair shims may be loose, and there may be no space between the perimeter grade beam and the adjacent soil at grade. A relatively small amount of level distortion in the foundation may cause significant damage to the foundation and superstructure. Damage may also occur in ground-level flooring materials, and slabs may bow between grade beams. The grade beams may be connected to piers constructed well below the active zone.
Another sign of foundation damage is the development of cracks in drywalls and brickworks, often in a zigzag form, at the top of doorframes and top and bottom of window frames. These cracks can grow thicker and longer over time.
The frames of windows and doors can become distorted over time, causing them to become out of square. This can occur due to the continuous upward pressure that the foundation experiences, which is then transferred to the surrounding framework. As a result of this pressure, doors and windows may become difficult to open and close, leading to a sticky or jammed sensation. These issues can cause frustration for homeowners and may require repairs to fix the problem. It’s important to address these issues promptly to prevent further damage to the foundation and surrounding structures.
The context describes various types of concrete structures commonly found in outdoor spaces. These structures include lifted patios, garden sheds, sidewalks, and tilted slab sections.
Lifted patios are a popular addition to many homes and can add value and functionality to outdoor living spaces. Garden sheds are also commonly made of concrete and can provide a durable storage solution for gardening tools and equipment.
Sidewalks are another common type of concrete structure found in outdoor spaces, providing a safe and sturdy surface for pedestrians to walk on. Finally, tilted slab sections, while less common, can be used for a variety of purposes, such as creating a unique architectural feature or providing a slope for drainage purposes.
Overall, concrete structures play an important role in shaping outdoor spaces and providing functionality and durability for a variety of purposes.
FAQs
1. u003cstrongu003eWhat are the signs of foundation heave?u003c/strongu003e
The following are common issues that can occur in buildings:u003cbru003eFirstly, cracks in slabs can indicate foundation problems, soil movement, or inadequate reinforcement. They may appear as small hairline cracks, but they can worsen over time and compromise the structural integrity of the building.u003cbru003eSecondly, sticky doors and windows can be a sign of foundation settling, especially if they were not previously an issue. As the foundation shifts, it can cause the door frames and windows to become misaligned, making them difficult to open and close.u003cbru003eThirdly, bowing of the slab can also indicate foundation issues, particularly if it is accompanied by cracks. The weight of the building may be causing the foundation to sink or shift, leading to an uneven surface.u003cbru003eFourthly, lifted sidewalks and other flat work can be a result of soil expansion due to moisture or tree roots growing underneath. This can cause the concrete to push upwards, resulting in tripping hazards and potential liability issues.u003cbru003eLastly, cracks on the interior face of walls may be caused by foundation problems or structural issues. It’s important to have them evaluated by a professional to determine the root cause and the necessary course of action.
2. u003cstrongu003eDo cracks develop on the exterior face of walls due to foundation heave?u003c/strongu003e
It is rare to observe cracks on the outer surface of walls as a result of foundation heaving.
3. u003cstrongu003eDo cracks due to foundation heave grow over time?u003c/strongu003e
The common issue of cracks appearing in walls, particularly drywall and brickwork, is a cause for concern. These cracks often have a distinct zigzag pattern and can be found in specific areas, such as the top of doorframes and at the top and bottom of window frames. What is particularly worrying is that these cracks tend to worsen with time, becoming thicker and longer.u003cbru003eThese cracks can be indicative of a more serious underlying problem, such as structural damage to the building. They may also be caused by natural settling and movement of the foundation or changes in temperature and humidity. It is important to address these cracks as soon as possible to prevent further damage and potential safety hazards.u003cbru003eIgnoring these cracks can lead to more significant issues in the future, such as the development of large gaps and the potential collapse of the wall. It is recommended to consult a professional to assess the severity of the cracks and to recommend the appropriate course of action. In some cases, this may involve reinforcing the wall or repairing the foundation. Early intervention is key to preventing further damage and ensuring the long-term stability of the building.
4. u003cstrongu003eHow can soil moisture be used as a sign for foundation heave?u003c/strongu003e
Foundation heave is a common issue that can be identified by observing an increase in the moisture level of the soil layer beneath the foundation in recent times. This phenomenon occurs when the soil expands due to an increase in moisture content, which causes the foundation to rise upwards. Such a rise in the foundation can result in structural damage to the building or other constructions resting on it. Therefore, it is important to keep a check on the moisture level of the soil beneath the foundation to avoid any potential damage.
u003cstrongu003e5. Is it possible to live in a house with a foundation heave?u003c/strongu003e
Foundation heave can occur in a building, and it is possible that occupants may not immediately notice its presence. Despite this, it can be detrimental to the overall quality of life and functionality of the building. Signs of foundation heave can manifest in various ways and cause a great deal of disruption. Therefore, it is crucial to address any foundation issues as soon as they are detected to avoid any further damage to the structure.
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