Why Foundations are a Sore Spot in North Texas

At Hatfield (now Alair Homes- Plano) Builders & Remodelers, local homeowners often talk to us about foundation issues because they have noticed drywall cracking and other symptoms of movement. They assume they have foundation issues – but that isn’t always the case. The following are common causes of foundation problems.

• Poor soil maintenance. Soil that is too dry, too moist or poorly compacted can permit foundation movement. A good watering regime is a key component to keeping foundation problems at bay.
• Improper drainage. When gutters are clogged, improperly installed or otherwise do not drain properly, this can result in non-uniform foundation movement. Condensation from an air conditioning unit must also drain properly.
• Landscaping issues. Large trees and shrubs that have been planted too close to the foundation can cause significant foundation damage, as can overwatering and improper sloping of flower beds and retaining walls.
• Plumbing leaks. When water from leaking pipes or sprinkler valves saturates the soil underneath a home, the soil may erode and permit movement.
• Shoddy construction. Homes that were improperly built or constructed on poorly compacted soil will be prone to foundation shifts.

Often the issues discussed above can be resolved with proper grading and drainage. When we suspect foundation movement issues, the Hatfield (now Alair Homes- Plano) team consults with the experts at Integrated Foundation Solutions. We won’t let foundation concerns interfere with your custom dream home or home addition in North Dallas! Give Hatfield (now Alair Homes- Plano) Builders & Remodelers a call at (214) 281-8800 to explore the possibilities.