Crawl space under the eves of a house showing insulation
/ By adminrm / Crawl Space Issues/ 0 Comments

What to Do If You Find Mold in Your Crawl Space?

The clay soil so common in Texas often causes serious issues for homeowners. This is especially true of crawl spaces, which are prone to mold growth due to clay’s ability to retain moisture. If you need a crawl space encapsulation service in Dallas Fort Worth, contact Align Foundation Repair. It is a particularly underutilized safeguard here in Dallas-Fort Worth, where hot, humid summers are a way of life. It will protect your home from moisture-related issues, such as mold and mildew, by adding a sealed vapor barrier to your crawl space’s surfaces.

Signs of Mold in a Crawl Space

You may have a mold problem in your crawl space if you notice the following signs:

  • Wood rot within the crawl space
  • Moisture damage on baseboards
  • Warping of wood floors
  • Respiratory issues, such as runny nose, itchy eyes, and cough
  • Rotting or decaying beams and joists

We recommend contacting a mold removal company to eradicate mold from your space. Then contact Align Foundation Repair to discuss crawl space encapsulation to prevent future mold growth. Crawl space encapsulation can eliminate these issues while also improving the indoor air quality of your home.

What Causes Mold Growth in Crawl Spaces?

Drainage is often an issue with clay soils. When the clay soil in your crawl space does not drain efficiently, it creates the perfect environment for mold growth. However, it’s not the only cause that can lead to mold. It can also be caused by leaking plumbing fixtures, broken pipes, and faulty pipe barriers. If you detect visible signs of mold in your crawl space, contact crawl space encapsulation experts for a free estimate. We can refer a trusted mold remediation company to remove mold before encapsulation. Align Foundation Repair can address drainage issues in combination with crawl space encapsulation.

How Does Encapsulation Help?

Begin with an in-depth inspection. This is crucial for understanding how much of your crawl space and home has been impacted by mold growth, and it can also determine the underlying causes. Mold remediation is necessary to address existing growth. You will need to contact a mold removal company to completely eradicate the mold in your crawl space, before we begin crawl space encapsulation. First, we install a vapor barrier to protect the crawl space from concerns like moisture-saturated clay soil or problems with plumbing fixtures. If you have an existing vapor barrier, it can be repaired or replaced depending on its condition.

Crawl space encapsulation is a proven way to protect your home from moisture-related issues, such as mold and mildew, by adding a sealed vapor barrier to all the surfaces of your crawl space. Water vapor can seep into your home from the ground, even through concrete.

Are There Other Ways to Deter Mold Growth Within Crawl Spaces?

At Align Foundation Repair, we take a hybrid approach and often recommend sump pump installation to homeowners who have drainage issues on their properties. They can pull water out of saturated areas and move it away from the structure to prevent mold growth.

We can also install a dehumidifier in the crawl space to reduce moisture levels. Hot weather and accumulating moisture under the home can increase humidity levels within the crawl space, contributing to mold growth. A dehumidifier reduces moisture in the air to keep your crawl space dry.

Call for a Free Estimate

At Align Foundation Repair, we provide comprehensive crawl space protection to keep your home environment healthy, safe, and clean. If you are experiencing moisture-related problems in your home, now is the time to act to avoid more costly issues down the line. Call us today for a free inspection and a free vapor barrier installation estimate.

Crawl Space Encapsulation in Dallas-Fort Worth TX
/ By adminrm / Crawl Space Repair/ 0 Comments

How Long Do Vapor Barriers Last?

Vapor barriers are critical for protecting your home’s foundation from issues like rotting wood, mildew, mold, and the interior of your home from hazardous gases like radon which has been linked to causing cancer and other health related issues. While some vapor barriers can last up to 25 years, others may degrade sooner due to harsh weather conditions, poor maintenance, and outdated infrastructure— especially here in Dallas where humidity levels can be intense, and many buildings have been around for decades.

But how do you know if your home’s vapor barrier needs to be repaired or replaced? There are a few telltale signs to look out for, which we’ll cover in detail below. Hopefully you’re not too claustrophobic, because it will likely require you to make a visit to your crawl space.

Telltale Signs You Need to Replace Your Vapor Barrier

As with any structural element, vapor barriers show signs of wear and tear over time. One of the most obvious signs of a failing barrier is visible damage. Tears, punctures, or holes compromise the barrier’s integrity rendering it ineffective, allowing moisture to enter the crawl space.

Another obvious sign is the presence of mold or mildew, which indicates moisture infiltration has been happening for quite some time already. Mold and mildew can appear in several colors but mostly common shows up as a blue-green, black, or white-ish color. If you spot discoloration on the wood/barrier or smell a distinct mustiness, you need to get it checked out immediately, as it can rot away your home’s foundation and jeopardize the safety of your home and the people inside.

Finally, if you spot insects, pests, or rodents, that’s a sign that your barrier has been compromised and should also be taken care of immediately. In addition to contacting a foundation repair expert, you’ll need to hire pest control to take care of the infestation to prevent other pest-related issues from developing.

When you notice something is off, contact the experts at Align Repair Foundation for crawl space encapsulation services in Dallas Fort Worth as soon as possible to keep a problem from getting worse.

Why You Need to Regularly Inspect Your Vapor Barrier

Regular inspections offer proactive protection for the integrity and safety of your home’s foundation. By scheduling an inspection with Align Foundation Repair, you can stay ahead of potential problems and identify and address signs of damage early on. This proactive approach not only helps to maintain the effectiveness of your vapor barrier, but it also keeps minor issues from turning into expensive repairs.

Addressing issues as soon as possible reduces the risk of moisture infiltration and subsequent foundation damage, ensuring that your home remains structurally sound for many years.

How to Get the Job Done Right, the First Time.

This is a job best done by the experts. When it comes to effective vapor barrier installation, it is critical that there are no holes, cracks, or gaps and that the material used is high quality and the correct thickness. If any of those criteria are not met, your vapor barrier is essentially rendered useless as moisture infiltration will occur and wreak havoc on your foundation.

Beyond installation of a vapor barrier, there are other methods a professional will recommend you deploy to increase the longevity and effectiveness of the vapor barrier. This includes equipment that handles water drainage and ventilation. Proper drainage redirects water away from your home’s foundation, while adequate ventilation helps regulate moisture levels, overall strengthening the vapor barrier’s defense against dampness.

Enlisting the help of professionals will ensure you have the right equipment installed correctly. In the long run, it can save you a serious amount of cash, time, and even health issues.

Preventive Maintenance Tips for Vapor Barrier Protection

You can improve the performance of your vapor barrier by proactively addressing maintenance tasks. Following these tips will also help to increase the overall stability and longevity of your home’s foundation.

  1. Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent water from pooling around the foundation, lowering the risk of moisture infiltration.
  2. Maintain proper grading around your home to ensure that water flows away from the foundation rather than pooling near it.
  3. Invest in dehumidifiers or ventilation systems to help regulate moisture levels in the crawl space, putting less strain on your vapor barrier and lowering the risk of moisture-related problems.

Protect Your Family and Your Home— Call us Today.

As a homeowner, protecting your foundation from moisture infiltration is a necessity for you and your family’s safety, and your finances. Whether you’ve experienced any of the signs above and you suspect your vapor barrier may need to be replaced, or if you don’t already have one and are interested in stalling one— you should contact crawl encapsulation experts at Align Foundation Repair.

Our team of experts specializes in foundation maintenance and repair solutions tailored to your specific needs. Contact us today to set up a consultation and ensure your home’s foundation stays safe and dry for many years to come.

Crawl space under the eves of a house showing insulation
/ By adminrm / Crawl Space Issues/ 0 Comments

How Do I Get Rid of Mold in My Crawl Space?

If you’ve found mold in your crawl space, you need to identify the source of moisture that allows it to thrive, and if there’s an extensive infestation, call Align Foundation Repair to have an inspection to see if crawl space encapsulation is the right solution for your home.

Once our inspection is complete, we recommend contacting a mold remediation company  that will safely and effectively remove the mold from your home. You want experts with the training and equipment to safely and thoroughly eliminate mold to minimize potential health risks. We can refer you to our trusted mold remediation partners.

In addition to damaging your home’s structural integrity, mold poses serious health risks to your family. If you’ve discovered it in your crawl space, this short guide will equip you with the knowledge to tackle the problem and prevent it from returning, especially in the humid climate of Texas, where mold growth is more prevalent.

Step One: Identify the Source of Moisture

Before tackling the mold itself, the first step is to identify the source of moisture. The mold remediation company will first identify the source, before beginning the mold removal process. The hidden space underneath your home is especially susceptible to moisture buildup, creating the perfect breeding ground for mold growth.

Common culprits include the following:

  • Leaking pipes: Check for any cracks or drips in your crawl space plumbing.
  • Condensation: Poor ventilation can lead to moisture buildup.
  • Foundation cracks: Cracks in your foundation can allow water to seep in.

Note: A dehumidifier can also help eliminate excess moisture. However, it will not kill or remove mold spores.

Step Two: Call Mold Remediation & Mold Removal Experts

While DIY methods might suit small, isolated mold patches, extensive infestations require professional expertise. Here’s why:

  • Mold is safely and effectively removed using specialized techniques.
  • The root cause of the moisture buildup is identified and addressed to prevent future growth.
  • A vapor barrier is installed to create a moisture-resistant barrier between your crawl space and your living area.

Step Three: Call AFR Crawl Space Encapsulation Experts

Once, the mold has been properly eliminated from your space. Align Foundation Repair can begin professional crawl space encapsulation in Dallas Fort Worth, as this the best solution for preventing mold problems in the future. You want crawl space experts with the training and knowledge to safely and thoroughly install a vapor barrier. A comprehensive approach ensures a long-term solution for your peace of mind.

The Benefits of Professional Crawl Space Encapsulation

When you contact vapor barrier installation experts in Dallas Fort Worth at Align Foundation Repair, you can expect the following:

  • Improved indoor air quality by reducing the risk of mold spores entering your living space.
  • Increased energy efficiency by reducing the need for heating and cooling.
  • A foundation that is protected from moisture damage.

Crawl space encapsulation will seal the area with a vapor barrier to control moisture levels and create an environment that is inhospitable to mold.

Schedule a Free Vapor Barrier Installation Estimate

Don’t let mold take over your crawl space. Being proactive will protect your home and provide a healthy living space for your family.Contact the experienced team at Align Foundation Repair today to assess your crawl space and recommend the best course of action. We offer a free vapor barrier installation estimate. We not only provide crawl space protection but a variety of other drainage and foundation repair services, as well.

Crawl Space Encapsulation in Dallas-Fort Worth TX
/ By adminrm / Crawl Space Repair/ 0 Comments

Dos and Don’ts of Crawl Space Vapor Barriers

As part of crawl space encapsulation, the proper installation of a vapor barrier plays a significant role in preventing moisture-related issues and maintaining the structural integrity and health of your home. Here’s a detailed guide on the dos and don’ts to ensure your space is correctly encapsulated, with an emphasis on always working with experienced professionals for optimal results. 

Do: Consult with Professionals 

Do: Always start by consulting with professionals who specialize in crawl space encapsulation. The experts at Align Foundation Repair use high-quality materials like StegoCrawl wrap, ensuring the vapor barrier for your crawl space is as effective as possible. Professional installation guarantees that all aspects, from the type of barrier to its placement and sealing, are handled efficiently and with results that last for the long term. 

Don’t: DIY Your Vapor Barrier Installation 

Don’t: Avoid attempting to install a crawl space vapor barrier yourself. Without proper knowledge and experience, you risk improper installation, which can lead to moisture penetration and subsequent damage. Professionals ensure the vapor barrier is laid seamlessly, covering all ground and wall surfaces, and sealed correctly to prevent moisture ingress. 

Do: Choose High-Quality Materials 

Do: Opt for high-quality vapor barriers like StegoCrawl, known for its durability and long-term performance. A high-quality barrier is crucial in providing effective moisture control, enhancing indoor air quality, and protecting your home from potential mold and mildew issues. 

Don’t: Use Inadequate or Low-Quality Barriers 

Don’t: Using subpar materials can compromise the encapsulation process. Low-quality barriers may tear easily, degrade over time, and fail to block moisture effectively. Investing in a reputable product like StegoCrawl ensures longevity and robust protection for your home. 

Do: Ensure Proper Ventilation 

Do: Ensure your crawl space is adequately ventilated. Proper ventilation works in tandem with the vapor barrier to control moisture levels. A crawl space dehumidifier installation can help maintain optimal humidity, preventing mold growth and improving air quality. 

Don’t: Ignore Ventilation Needs 

Don’t: Overlooking ventilation can negate the benefits of your vapor barrier. Poor ventilation leads to moisture buildup, which can cause structural damage and health hazards. Always include ventilation solutions like dehumidifiers in your encapsulation plan. 

Do: Install Proper Drainage Systems 

Do: Incorporate proper drainage systems to direct water away from your crawl space. A crawl space sump pump installation ensures any accumulated water is efficiently removed, preventing potential flooding and moisture problems. 

Don’t: Neglect Drainage Requirements 

Don’t: Ignoring the need for effective drainage systems can lead to water accumulation and damage. Ensure your encapsulation includes a sump pump and other necessary drainage solutions to protect your crawl space from water-related issues. 

Do: Maintain Regular Inspections 

Do: Schedule regular inspections of your encapsulated crawl space. Professional inspections help detect any issues early so that your vapor barrier remains intact and effective. Regular maintenance by professionals is key for long-term protection and performance. 

Don’t: Overlook Maintenance 

Don’t: Forgetting to maintain your encapsulated crawl space can lead to unnoticed damage and decreased effectiveness of the vapor barrier. Consistent check-ups by professionals help preserve the encapsulation benefits and prevent costly repairs. 

Choose Our Crawl Space Vapor Barrier Installation Services 

Vapor barrier installation is essential for protecting your home from moisture damage and improving indoor air quality. Align Foundation Repair offers expert crawl space encapsulation in Dallas Fort Worth, using top-quality materials like StegoCrawl to provide a cleaner, healthier, and more efficient living space. For more information, contact crawl space encapsulation experts today. 

Condo rooftops and chimneys
/ By adminrm / Signs of Foundation Issues/ / 0 Comments

How Can You Tell if You Have a Healthy Home Foundation?

The stability of your home depends on the foundation. Yet, it’s often overlooked because the structure itself is out of sight. There are signs that will let you know that you have a healthy home foundation and that the structure remains capable of supporting your house. If the concrete is in good condition, there should NOT be any: 

  • Puddling water adjacent to the home perimeter 
  • Doors and windows that do not open and close properly 
  • New cracks or existing cracks getting larger on the wall, floor, or ceiling 

Even if there are no obvious signs of foundation problems, there may still be lurking damage. When it comes to spotting foundation problems, you will have to explore deeper to detect the early warning signs. 

Signs That Your Foundation Is in Good Shape 

When assessing the health of your foundation, here are some tell-tale signs to keep an eye out for: 

Good Drainage 

Consider the ground around your home. If there is sloping, the slope should run in a downward direction away from the property to allow water to flow away from the foundation. Good drainage is a major factor in foundation stability, and a proper ground slope facilitates optimum drainage.  

No Cracks 

Foundation issues may also be evident in the home’s exterior. Look for any cracks or bulging areas, as these indicate that soil movement is taking a toll on home stability. You may also notice gaps around door and window frames.  

Common Signs of Foundation Damage

Homeowners should also be aware of the common signs of foundation damage, which include: 

  • Shrinking or cracking soil along the foundation
  • Sticking doors
  • Cracks in drywall 
  • Uneven flooring 
  • Warped and damaged siding 
  • Springy or bouncy floors 
  • Pooling water near foundation
  • Separating molding
  • Brick Cracks

If you notice one or more of these signs, call for a professional inspection of your property to determine if foundation issues are responsible.  

Steps You Can Take to Extend the Life of Your Foundation 

The most important step you can take to preserve your foundation is to schedule an inspection as soon as you notice any problems. Repair technicians can address all types of foundation defects, including relatively minor issues. By repairing these problems immediately, you’ll avoid worsening damage and keep your home in great condition for as long as possible. Other preventative measures include: 

Check for Pooling Water

We suggest an evaluation of the home exterior for pooling water around the border of the home. Water presence is not a sign of a healthy foundation; ponding water is absorbed by the soil, causing a continuous cycle of expansion and contraction. The soil essentially “heaves.” In turn, this causes the foundation to shift in its place; over time, this leads to the concrete fracturing and even completely splitting apart. This is especially an issue in the North Texas area because the soil in the region is heavily clay and loam-based. These elements are highly porous. 

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A healthy home foundation should have a functioning drainage system that prevents water from puddling too close to the home. If you see puddles lingering for extended periods following rain, you may need a drainage system.

Check Gutters and Downspouts 

Even if drainage is good on a property, gutters can cause moisture issues when improperly positioned. Gutter downspouts should deposit water a safe distance from the home, as opposed to distributing water into the ground around the foundation. If the downspout is faulty, repair or replacement can spare foundation issues.  

Evaluate the Landscape

A landscape rich in foliage substantially adds to the curb appeal. However, think twice before planting trees or shrubs too close to the home. The roots can expand meters in length and steal vital moisture, which causes foundation settling. It can also burst an underground pipe, causing a leak that causes the aforementioned soil heaving. 

If you want to add trees to your property, then consider this guide: 

  • Trees 30-feet tall or less, keep at least 10-feet from home 
  • Trees 70-feet tall or more: at least 30-feet from home 
  • Trees between 30 and 70-feet, at least 20-feet from home 

Be sure to cut away any climbing vines and trim shrubs to avoid contact with your home.  

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Be careful with the roots of your trees. If they’ve come too close to your foundation, contact Align Foundation Repair today.

Cracks in the Home 

We mentioned cracks earlier. Seeing a hairline fracture is no immediate cause for alarm, as this may simply be due to the home settling. However, if you see new fissures or existing ones expanding, then that may be a sign of the foundation shifting. Keep in mind that cracks in concrete also increase the risk of a pest infestation within your household. 

We Inspect and Repair Home Foundations 

We cannot overemphasize the importance of a healthy home foundation. If it begins shifting or breaking apart, the home itself will incur serious consequences.  

Foundation problems can significantly lower the value of the property. If you spot any of the signs of a compromised foundation, please give our foundation repair experts in DFW a call and schedule your free evaluation and foundation repair estimate. 

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/ By adminrm / Crawl Space Issues/ 0 Comments

Five Signs You Have Mold In Your Crawl Space

Most people don’t spend much time in their crawl space. Unfortunately, it can be the perfect breeding ground for an unwanted mold infestation. It can spread, infiltrating the structure of your home long before you detect anything. The biggest issue with North Texas crawl spaces has more to do with the clay that absorbs moisture under the house, as well as problems with cross ventilation. 

Crawl space encapsulation is a proven way to protect your home from moisture-related issues, such as organic growths like mold and mildew, by adding a sealed vapor barrier to all the surfaces of your crawlspace. Water vapor can seep into your home from the ground, even through concrete. Contact the experts at Align Foundation Repair. We offer crawl space encapsulation services in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Let’s look at five signs of mold in your crawl space.  

Five Signs of Mold  

Once mold enters your home, it can endanger your health, even if confined to your crawl space. Mold spores can spread into your living areas, putting your family at risk of respiratory problems and other health complications. Furthermore, mold can deteriorate the wood within your crawl space, potentially compromising the strength of the foundation. 

Smell 

Many species of mold are notorious for their unpleasant odor. Even if your mold infestation is initially unnoticed, you may eventually notice a disagreeable, musty smell. If it is still noticeable even after you’ve done a deep clean around the house and eliminated all the usual suspects, mold may be the source. 

Stains 

A quick internet search will show that water damage and mold buildup go hand in hand. Water stains can suggest mold might be just around the corner, sometimes literally. Look for any new spots or discolored areas on your walls, floor, and baseboards. 

Structural damage 

Humidity and the mold that follows can warp the wood in your house, resulting in sinking floors, sloping walls, and even collapsing ceilings. This is why mold, even just contained in crawl spaces, can cause serious structural damage. If you notice an uneven floor that was once level, don’t ignore it. 

Pests 

Mold isn’t the only thing that flourishes in dark, humid areas. The same conditions that invite mold tend to invite pests such as termites, cockroaches, mice, and even larger pests. A recent bug or rodent infestation without a visible cause might suggest the presence of mold in your crawl space. 

Allergies 

Mold exposure can cause and aggravate allergic reactions in some people. Symptoms of mold exposure can manifest as nasal and sinus congestion, runny nose, wheezing, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, coughing, throat irritation, and sneezing. Some species, such as black mold, are toxic, can cause serious diseases, and should be removed as quickly and thoroughly as possible. 

Contact Align Foundation Repair for a Free Estimate 

If you believe you may have mold in your crawl space, don’t wait. Get ahead of a mold infestation and contact crawl space encapsulation experts at Align Foundation Repair. Taking action today can save you thousands of dollars in the future. Call today for a free vapor barrier installation estimate. 

drainage systems in DFW
/ By adminrm / Drainage Issues/ 0 Comments

Three Common Drainage System Types in North Texas

Drainage systems are a critical part of ensuring the structural integrity of your home. If left unchecked, water can seep into your home’s foundation, breaking pipes and even introducing mold and pests into your home. By directing rainwater away from your home, drainage systems also help prevent soil erosion and protect your home’s foundation.

Rain gutters are the most commonly used type of drainage system in North Texas. However, there are others you can use instead or in addition to gutters.

Surface Drains

As their name implies, surface drains collect water pooling on the surface of your property, and are best at quickly moving it away from your home. They are typically installed on sloped surfaces to catch water runoff and drain it away before it can pool and cause damage. A metal or plastic grate on the top lets water through while blocking most debris, and a PVC pipe enables you to route this collected water away from your property.

Surface Drain

Channel Drains

Frequently used in places where flooding is a concern, channel drains (or trench drains) consist of a channel or strip installed along a home’s driveway or on the landscape’s perimeter. Once in place, channel drains collect water where it is prone to accumulate, such as driveways and other flat, concrete surfaces. If left unchecked, this water can eventually seep down into the foundation of the home.

Installing the Channel Drain and Filled the Trench with Dirt

French Drain

A French drain consists of a trench, perforated piping, and gravel. As the soil becomes saturated with water, it can heave and exert pressure on the foundation. Water flows through the gravel down into the piping, which then transports it to another area of the property via gravity. This drainage system reduces soil erosion protecting your homes foundation.

French Drain System

Call Align Foundation for a Free Estimate

Water and moisture damage can wreak havoc on your home and its foundation. At Align Foundation Repair, we take pride in offering the highest quality products and unsurpassed workmanship when it comes to foundation restoration and drainage system repair. If your home has suffered moisture and water damage, call us today for a free estimate!

French Drain System
/ By adminrm / Drainage Issues/ 0 Comments

Advantages of a French Drain

Many homeowners experience drainage issues on their properties. For example, negative drainage is when water flows toward the home instead of away from it. If left unaddressed, it can cause water to pool around a home’s foundation and result in water damage, cracks, and structural instability. An effective drainage solution is a French Drain.

At Align Foundation, our goal is simple, provide our customers with the highest quality products and unsurpassed workmanship. Please contact us for a free consultation if you are concerned about drainage issues on your property.

What is a French Drain?

A French drain consists of a trench, perforated piping, and gravel. Water flows through the gravel down into the piping, which then transports it to another area of the property via gravity. It could be the perfect solution for your drainage issues.

Here are a few benefits you can expect by installing one:

Fortified Foundation

As the soil becomes saturated with water, it can heave and exert pressure on the foundation. Improving drainage will help you avoid major problems with your foundation. Accordingly, it can save money on repair costs and ensure your home retains its value for years.

Reduced Soil Erosion

Drainage problems on your property can contribute to soil erosion–when flowing water picks up soil and transports it away from your home. Eroded soil makes it challenging to maintain your landscaping, but it also contributes to your foundation sinking and settling. With drainage system repair, soil will remain intact, and you can avoid major structural issues.

Improved Aesthetic Appeal

Pooling water and soil erosion will not only cause practical issues but can also diminish curb appeal. As water lingers in your backyard, it can negatively impact the health of your lawn and plants. For instance, stagnant water may cause brown spots on your lawn and increase the chance of fungal growth. If you put a lot of time and effort into outdoor landscaping, you don’t want your hard work to be derailed.

Decreased Risk of Health Issues

Stagnant water also becomes a breeding ground for numerous pests, including ticks and mosquitos. Tick-borne illnesses, such as Lyme disease, affect humans and pets. And in some instances, the effects of Lyme disease can cause health issues that linger for years. Pooling water also attracts flies, termites, and cockroaches.

Schedule a Free Foundation Consultation

Our skilled technicians at Align Foundation Repair are known for fast, professional, and efficient service. Along with dependable foundation repair to deal with existing issues, we can also install a French drain on your property to preserve the structural stability of the home. Please contact our team today to schedule your free foundation consultation.

French Drain Align Foundation Repair Garland
/ By Chase Gohl / Drainage Issues/ / 0 Comments

What Is a French Drain?

Drainage issues around your home can damage your landscaping, decrease the comfort of your backyard, and, most importantly, cause significant problems in the foundation. Fortunately, French drains offer an easy and effective solution. In addition to expertly installing these systems, our team at Align Foundation Repair can explain how they work and why they’re so beneficial to homeowners.

A French drain uses a buried pipe to collect water and divert it to a place where it can be better absorbed into the ground. It is a specific style of yard drain that allows for broad collection of water. Relying on nothing but smart design and gravity, these drains feature a pipe with holes facing upwards. As the ground becomes saturated, water seeps in through the holes and collects in the pipe. At this point it can flow freely to lower ground. Align uses only PVC pipes for French drains, since they provide the best in both performance and durability. A smart, simple, and highly functional design that’s been in use for centuries all around the globe, it’s no wonder French drains are a popular water management solution throughout the American South.

Origins of French Drains

French drains get their name from Henry Flagg French, an American inventor and lawyer. In 1859, French published a book discussing different drainage systems, including the one associated with his name.
French sought effective methods to alleviate water accumulation on farms, notorious for ruining crops and decreasing yields. His invention was initially called a cellar drain, which harkens back to his belief that flooded basements were a key factor in ill health.

The Basics of French Drains

A French drain consists of four basic components to facilitate the efficient removal of water from around a home’s foundation and include the following:

  • Trench – Installers will excavate a trench on your property for the essential components. Trench depth varies but typically measures from one to two feet.
  • Perforated Piping – Unlike standard pipes, perforated piping contains numerous small holes. These holes allow water to flow into the pipe, which transfers it to another location.
  • Landscaping Fabric – Landscaping fabric is made from water-permeable plastic, creating a barrier between the perforated pipe and weeds, dirt, and other debris. Without it, the underground pipe would likely become clogged.
  • Gravel – Trenches are filled with gravel to control water flow into the pipe. Gravel is positioned at the bottom of the trench, while sand is deposited on the top.

Choosing the correct type of gravel is integral to a well-functioning French drain. In terms of size, bigger is better, as larger gravel is more effective at avoiding clogs, e.g., ½ inch or 1 inch wide. Limestone & river rock are good choices, as it’s more robust and less likely to wear down after extended water exposure. It should also be washed, eliminating debris that could cause clogs.

How Does a French Drain Work?

When property lacks hills and slopes, water is more likely to remain stagnant. Wet, dense soil will push against the concrete of the foundation, which can cause cracks to form. Over time, these cracks will grow larger, allowing moisture to seep into the home, typically within the basement.

French drains allow for more effective drainage thanks to their design. Pooling water in a backyard will seep through the gravel layer to the perforated piping below. It will direct water from the property to another area where it can sufficiently drain. Sometimes, it can be routed to a rain barrel or a municipal system, such as a storm drain.

How are French Drains Installed?

Installing a French drain is a fairly straightforward procedure. First a trench is dug from where unwanted water collects to where the property owner wants it diverted. This usually means digging a small trench from around foundation, driveway or lawn, to lower ground. Then a drainage pipe with openings cut along the top is installed. This pipe is often wrapped in a fiber cloth to prevent small debris from clogging the holes. Then the trench is lined with a combination of filler fabric and heavy mill plastic, and back-filled with gravel. In most cases, the gravel remains exposed to allow for both subterranean and surface collection.

Benefits of a French Drain

For all their simplicity, French drains offer many great benefits:

  • Easy installation means that drainage issues on your property can be solved efficiently and cost-effectively.
  • These systems save money on expensive repairs, including foundation and water remediation.
  • Proper drainage helps maintain your home’s curb appeal, as water accumulation won’t affect plants, flowers, and grass.
  • Pooling water in your backyard can attract pests, so water elimination ensures a healthier environment.
  • Finally, you’ll get more enjoyment out of your property when you have a clean, dry backyard.

Contact Align Foundation for a Free Estimate

Poor drainage on your property can cause numerous issues, both inside and outside of your home. French drains are a popular solution because they can effectively move water away from your home’s foundation and require very little upkeep.
Contact Align Foundation Repair to discuss French drain installation or determine whether your existing system needs assistance. We offer extensive drainage services in DFW.

Crawl Space Encapsulation in Dallas-Fort Worth TX
/ By adminrm / Crawl Space Repair/ 0 Comments

How Crawl Space Encapsulation Can Help You Save Money on Your Energy Bills

For homes with crawl spaces, moisture issues are an ongoing concern. Along with contributing to mold growth, moisture from the crawl space can rise into the home and increase humidity levels. That, of course, means higher HVAC costs.

Our crew at Align Foundation Repair understands how frustrating high utility bills can be. That’s why we encourage homeowners to consider our crawlspace encapsulation service, which can have a positive impact on utility costs throughout the year.

How Crawl Space Encapsulation Works

Crawl space encapsulation involves the installation of a vapor barrier to protect against moisture damage, as water can leach up through the ground and make its way into the home. This contributes to the growth of mold and mildew and makes your home less comfortable due to increased humidity levels.

Vapor barrier installation often entails the following steps:

  • Removing rocks and other debris from the crawl space
  • Assessing the area
  • Measuring and cutting the vapor barrier
  • Installing the vapor barrier in the crawl space

Align Foundation Repair can install a sump pump to remove standing water and add a dehumidifier to deter the build-up of moisture.

How It Saves Homeowners Money on Utility Costs

The Stack Effect is a natural phenomenon that impacts the energy efficiency of your home. As hot air rises, negative air pressure is created, which brings cooler outside air into your home. As a result, your home HVAC system must work twice as hard to make your home comfortable, which causes energy costs to become exorbitant.

Crawl space encapsulation reduces the Stack Effect in winter by sealing the bottom portion of your home, which prevents cold air from flowing in. The service also saves you money during summer, as it prevents moisture from getting into your home.

Moisture intrusion makes for a more humid environment, which means you’ll be more reliant on your AC system. By controlling humidity, you can set your thermostat higher thanks to improved home comfort.

Other Benefits Offered by Encapsulation Service

According to Forbes, a new combination furnace/AC system costs $9,600 on average, but can cost as much as $13,000 depending on the unit. By enhancing energy efficiency via encapsulation service, your HVAC equipment will experience less wear and tear. That means you won’t spend as much on HVAC repairs and replacements, as the system will have an extended lifespan.

Encapsulating a crawl space also deters the growth of mold and mildew within the home. Along with worsening allergy symptoms, mold can damage household fixtures. For instance, mold growth can impact furniture, flooring, and many other items.

While mold remediation is effective, it’s also expensive. Additionally, some fixtures may need to be replaced when mold growth is severe.

While the cost-savings afforded by crawl space encapsulation are significant, the service offers many other benefits:

  • Improved air quality
  • Decreased allergens and contaminants in the home
  • Enhanced home comfort
  • Better control of pest and insect invasion

Contact Us Today to Discuss Encapsulation

Reducing home maintenance costs is a concern for most property owners, and crawl space encapsulation helps lower expenses related to utility bills, HVAC maintenance, and other costs.

At Align Foundation Repair, we combine our superior knowledge with a commitment to providing the best possible experience to customers. Please contact us today for more information and to ask about our free estimates.