French Drain System

French Drains: PVC vs Corrugated Pipes

More homeowners in the North Texas region are investing in French drain installation to protect their foundation from the effects of ponding water. While an effective solution, not all French drains are created equal, many homeowners find themselves asking about French Drains: corrugated vs pvc. Depending on the material and craftsmanship, some drains are prone to backups and accelerated wear. This is why pipe quality matters.

While landscapers use “non-rigid corrugated NDS pipes,” we use drainage grade PVC pipe because it is more durable and longer-lasting, especially when buried under heavy materials like soil. The corrugated pipe is cheaper but not nearly as strong. The choice is clear when considering pvc vs corrugated pipe for a french drain.  At your free drainage evaluation, a technician from Align Foundation Repair can demonstrate how easily the corrugated pipe bends under pressure when compared with PVC pipe.

PVC and Corrugated Pipes at a Glance

French, channel, and surface drains typically consist of one of two materials: polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or corrugated pipes. Know which material is being used when having a drain installed on your property. We will state unequivocally right now that PVC is the far more durable material. We highly recommend it comparing corrugated or pvc for french drains. Our stance is based on years of industry expertise. We have seen how these two materials hold up under prolonged exposure to the ever-shifting North Texas weather.

The Downside of Corrugated Pipes

Many contractors still use corrugated pipes. The material is cheaper, so homeowners save money in the initial installation. The issue with corrugated pipes is that it’s made of plastic. This is beneficial in one sense because the softer material makes it easier for producing joints, bends, and crests.

The problem is that these pipes are notoriously difficult to clean if a backup occurs. You cannot simply use an auger or plumbing snake to clear the debris because the rotating brush can easily tear through the thin plastic pipe.

PVC Pipes Provide Long-Lasting Durability

A PVC drainage pipe solves the main issue associated with corrugated pipes. PVC is a rigid structure made from synthetic plastic polymer. It will not rupture if exposed to a commercial-strength roto-rooter-type snake. This makes regular maintenance far simpler and more importantly, doable.

Furthermore, the pipe’s smooth interior surface reduces fluid friction and resistance to flow. This offsets sludge and slime build-up and reduces encrustation and tuberculation.

Contractors also prefer to work with a PVC French drain pipe. Despite its tough surface, it can easily be cut with a conventional handsaw. It’s also easier to set the pipes at the proper slope and keep it in place.

We Install High-Quality French Drains

The weather and soil conditions in the Northern Texas region make water too much of a risk factor for residential foundations. This is why French drains are an integral element for foundation longevity. While corrugated pipes have their place in some applications, PVC is the sound solution for a French pipe installation. At Align Foundation Repair, this is our go-to material for underground drainage systems.

Give us a call today for French drain PVC pipe repair and other services.

Can You Live in a House During Foundation Repair?

Many homeowners want to know if they can remain inside their homes throughout the duration of their foundation repair. The answer is “yes.” You can stay inside your home during a foundation repair; no need to check your family into a hotel or stay with relatives. When you learn what the foundation repair process entails, you’ll see why vacating your home is unnecessary.

The Repair Process & How it Impacts Your Home Routines

Typically, most home foundations can be corrected and leveled back into position by installing piers. This also stabilizes the concrete slab and prevents future movement caused by shifting soil.

Contrary to belief, the process does not tear up your entire yard and leave piles of dirt all over the landscape. The process typically can be completed in a single day, though it could take longer depending on the severity of the damage. Disruption to your at-home routines during repairs is minimal.

Once pier installation is complete, the holes are back-filled, and we use any excess soil left over to correct any drainage issues that may arise. If that’s not necessary, then we just haul away the debris. We leave none of the mess behind, so no need to hire a separate disposal crew.

Align Foundation Repair can fix your foundation with minimal disruption. Contact us for a free estimate.

Leaving the Home During Foundation Repairs

While it’s perfectly acceptable to remain inside your home, some homeowners nevertheless choose to vacate while repairs are in progress. Regardless of whether you choose to stay or leave, we recommend giving your neighbors a courtesy notice that there may be some noise and vibrations from industrial machinery.

If you typically work from home, it may be worth considering whether or not the loud noises will negatively impact your focus.  If loud noises would negatively impact you, then that is a reason to consider leaving for the day to work elsewhere.

If for whatever reason, we feel it is unadvisable for you to stay in your home, we will let you know before beginning repairs.

We Repair Your Foundation Without Home Disruption

Call Align Foundation Repair if you suspect foundation damage. A technician will need to assess the concrete slab and soil conditions to determine the appropriate action to take. In most scenarios, it’s perfectly acceptable to stay in your home while repair is underway. Our Garland foundation service area covers the city and surrounding regions.

Foundation Repair Company

Do Cracks in Drywall Mean My Foundation Needs Fixing?

The signs of foundation problems are subtle at first. They begin with small cracks in drywall, which many homeowners try to patch before calling a Dallas, TX foundation repair specialist. Waiting too long leads to limited options for repair and much higher costs.

If you notice a crack in the wall that wasn’t there before, take a good look at how it’s positioned, how big it is, and whether it seems to be expanding. Even if it looks minor, calling an expert for a free estimate lets you know for sure, without costing you anything.

When drywall cracks, foundation problems could be the cause

Houses naturally shift and settle, causing cracks to appear. When the soil fails to support the weight of your home, the foundation may settle unevenly. It is more common for houses to shift in dramatic ways when they’re built upon loose clay soil, as in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

Homes that are experiencing significant settling have gaps affecting window function, walls that are not of equal height, and large, widespread cracking. Foundation damage cracks in drywall will only worsen with time if not addressed, putting the structural integrity of your home in jeopardy.

If your house is showing any of these issues, contact Align Foundation Repair today.

Do cracks in drywall mean foundation problems every time?

Before you panic, realize that narrow drywall cracks don’t necessarily indicate foundation problems. Without calling a professional, you won’t know for sure, but your own observations can be helpful. Here’s what to look for:

  • Is the drywall crack big? If the crack is wider than 1/8th of an inch, that’s cause for concern.
  • Is the drywall crack horizontal or angled? Minor house shifting causes vertical cracks. A shifting foundation can be powerful enough to cause horizontal or diagonal cracks that are harder to fill and putty over.
  • Is the drywall crack widening? Call us right away if a crack is wide enough to fit a dime inside or if one end of the crack is noticeably wider than the other.
  • Are the cracks near windows and doors? When the cracks you notice in your drywall and sheetrock are near the windows and doors, that’s another cause for concern. Shifting foundations cause window frames and door frames to change shape, cracking the walls nearby. Try opening and closing the windows and doors. When the windows stick in their frames, or when the doors don’t close all the way, that’s another indicator of foundation damage.
  • Do you see stair-stepping? Brick veneers with cracks that appear in a stair-step formation are cause for concern. Vertical cracks along a straight mortar joint could indicate seasonal movement, which is less concerning. A professional opinion would be helpful in either case.

Any one of these problems could indicate that you have foundation damage and need to call a professional to have your foundation examined.

Have a professional fix your cracks today. Contact Align Foundation Repair for a free estimate.

What causes cracks in dry wall besides damaged foundation?

One of the first questions people ask foundation experts is: “What causes cracks in drywall?” Obviously, homeowners want to know how the situation occurred and what they can do to prevent further damage. There are many causes of foundation wall cracks – each with their own unique solution. We are equipped to assist with drywall cracks caused by:

    • Seasonal changes: As the seasons change, the wood in your walls and foundation (pier and beam) expands and contracts, which also causes minor drywall cracks. Expansive soils contract when dry, and expand when moist, potentially putting thousands of pounds of pressure on your walls. Some walls will buckle, fall, or end up beyond repair if not corrected.
    • Post-construction shrinkage: Wood frames may dry and shrink within the first year, producing vertical and horizontal cracking on walls. Occasionally we see this when the builder has used a poor or rushed finishing technique. One repair is usually enough to fix the problem permanently.
    • Curing Concrete: Concrete walls often develop small cracks during the curing process. These fissures are perfectly normal and no cause for alarm unless they begin to elongate, widen, or are greater than 1/16th of an inch.
We fix these problems and more. Contact Align Foundation Repair for a free estimate.

How to address drywall cracks that keep coming back

Foundation repair is the best solution for drywall cracks that keep coming back. We offer many different solutions for drywall cracks and damaged foundations, depending on your unique situation. Pier and beam solutions are designed to prop your home up further away from shifting soils. A drainage solution moves excess moisture away from your home and foundation.

Call Align Foundation Repair, a family-run Dallas-Fort Worth company

Though vertical cracks in your drywall are less concerning, don’t assume that any cracks in your walls are safe. Not all cracks in your drywall or sheetrock indicate foundation damage, but calling a Fort Worth, TX foundation repair expert for a free assessment is the best way to ensure your foundation is healthy. We offer many affordable solutions, as well as zero-interest loan programs to help you protect your home sooner rather than later.

 

How Foundation Repair Benefits Your Home’s Longevity

Foundation repair increases a home’s longevity by boosting the structural stability and preventing damage to other areas of the home, including floors, ceilings, walls, and roofs.

Foundations support all other areas of the home, from the roof to the flooring system. As a result, problems affecting the foundation can have numerous effects, as well as decrease the lifespan of the property you work so hard to maintain. Accordingly, time is of the essence to use the right foundation repair services to enhance stability and prevent future issues from occurring.

Problems That Can Impact Home Foundations

Moisture exposure is one of the most common issues affecting foundations. While concrete foundations are highly durable, they’re not completely impervious to water damage. As concrete absorbs water, it can become cracked and weakened over time.

Water damage often results from negative drainage around the home, which means that water is flowing toward the property instead of away from it.

Soil movement is another serious issue that can affect foundations. Soil naturally contracts and expands along with changes in weather and humidity, which can lead to pressure on the foundation when soil becomes too dense with moisture. Soil erosion can have an equally damaging effect, as it causes holes to form under the foundation, which will diminish overall support.

How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Foundation and Home

Many causes of foundation damage may be out of your control, which can greatly impact the longevity of your property. Fortunately, there are lots of ways to remedy these issues effectively:

  • Concrete Underpinning – Concrete footings help distribute the weight of a structure evenly to prevent sinking and sagging. With concrete underpinning repair, additional concrete is poured underneath the existing footings to boost the durability of the foundation and prevent future problems from occurring.
  • Piers – Soil issues are often remedied by piers, which can help stabilize foundations. Depending on the unique issues affecting your foundation, the repair specialist may recommend steel push piers, drilled piers, or concrete pressed pilings, each of which utilizes a distinct design to address specific problems.
  • Crawlspace Encapsulation – Crawlspaces, which are unfinished areas that sit between the home and the earth below, can fall victim to moisture issues. Crawlspace encapsulation often entails placement of a vapor barrier to stop water damage from impacting the home. Teams can also use devices like dehumidifiers and sump pumps to decrease moisture levels.

These foundation repair processes not only prevent new issues from occurring but also help identify and resolve existing ones. They can also extend the lifespan of your home to ensure you get the most out of your investment.

Learn More About Your Foundation Repair Options Today

If you’re not sure which type of foundation repair service is right for your property, contact Align Foundation Repair to get started on a free estimate. We provide comprehensive foundation assessments throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area to help homeowners choose the best possible repair solution for their needs.

How to Spot Foundation Issues in an Older Home (And What to Do About It)

When it comes to residential real estate, a home is generally classified as old if it was built more than 50 years ago. For these homeowners, it’s essential to know the warning signs of some of the most common foundation problems. Monitoring and taking action if you spot any issues can save you thousands of dollars before the problem causes any significant damage.

Why do older houses have issues with their foundation?

Although it can depend on where you live and the construction quality of your home, it’s likely that older houses can develop foundation problems at some point.

For example, homes built before 1940 don’t have as stable foundations as the modern concrete slabs we use today. But it’s not always about the quality of the construction. Erosion can be another culprit that causes the soil underneath your foundation to move over time. Tree roots can also pose a significant threat to your home’s foundations.

In Texas, particularly in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, extreme weather conditions can include extreme temperatures, droughts, tornadoes, and flash floods, which can all impact your home’s foundation. For example, ground swells can occur due to temperature and moisture. In addition, porous soil can expand and contract. A foundation can also sink into the ground if the soil is highly absorbent, affecting a home’s structural integrity.

Unfortunately, these issues aren’t easy to detect as a homeowner, but there are signs you can watch for to indicate potential problems.

What are the warning signs of foundation issues?

Being aware of any warning signs can help you avoid extensive and potentially hazardous damage. Here are the most common warning signs:

Doors and windows sticking: If you’ve noticed your doors or windows often get stuck, it may signify a foundation shift in your home.

Uneven floors: Uneven floors can point to a more significant foundation issue. If you notice any unevenness or bowing to your floors, it’s always good to check with a professional like Align Foundation Repair to rule out any foundational issues.

Wall cracks: If you’ve noticed any cracks in your drywall, it can signify that your foundation is slowly shifting. Fissures can typically occur along the seams of your walls, where the drywall meets. If your home has large exterior cracks, it’s typically an issue with its foundation.

Slab leak: Slab leaking refers to a pipe leak within or underneath your home’s foundation. It typically develops in your home’s incoming water line or the outgoing sewer line. While a few things can lead to a slab leak, it can result from a foundation that’s shifted or settled due to age. This can put stress on the pipes and make them more vulnerable to breakage.

Cracked foundation: While small hairline cracks may not seem like a significant issue, it’s essential to get your foundation checked to be sure.

What to do if you notice issues?

If you love DIY projects, it can be tempting to consider solving any foundation repair issues yourself. But when it comes to the structural integrity of your home, it’s essential to get professional advice to keep your home safe.

While various solutions are available to address foundation issues, many can require specific machinery or engineering systems. Using Align Foundation Repair means we’ll come and assess your home and quickly identify whether it’s a foundation issue or something else causing your problems.

Foundation Repair – DFW

If you’re looking for foundation repair service, our local and experienced team at Align Foundation Repair can help. We provide free estimates and foundation checks in the DFW Metroplex area. Contact us to find out more, so you can get peace of mind about your home’s structural integrity.

Why Foundation Repair is NOT a DIY Job

Do-it-Yourself home improvements can be incredibly gratifying. Whether it’s fixing a leaky faucet or remodeling a bathroom, there are lots of DIY projects that can draw on your skills and save money in the process. But when it comes to fixing foundation problems or identifying sources of potential damage, online videos and your own elbow grease are not the solution. Diagnosing a foundation problem requires in-depth experience and knowledge, which is why it’s important to leave this complicated task to the professionals.

For quality foundation repair services, you need to work with a reputable company that has the proper equipment and know-how to implement a permanent fix. Sure, there are dozens of tutorial videos online that show homeowners how to spot foundation issues and fix them on a shoe-string budget. The problem is that these DIY fixes are usually temporary and may even create additional damage to an already compromised foundation.

Professional Foundation Repair Is Worth It

You’ve invested a lot of money in your home, and foundation problems are not something to be taken lightly. Serious foundation damage can affect property value and the safety of occupants. No matter how minor the foundation issue might appear, the safest and most permanent repairs are those performed by a licensed professional. Our technicians know how to spot and diagnose issues while taking into account the following factors:

  • The age of your home
  • The soil condition and characteristics
  • The foundation type
  • The duration of the foundation problem
  • The local climate

At Align Foundation Repair, we have the expertise to properly diagnose underlying issues and the equipment to get the job done right. Plus, all of our foundation repair work is covered by an industry-leading and trusted warranty.

Specialized Equipment and Experienced Contractors

Poor drainage, shifting soil, and plumbing leaks can undermine the structural integrity of your home’s foundation. Some foundation problems can even call for excavation, and the installation of steel piers, and concrete pilings to remedy the situation. Our experienced contractors and installers have been serving the Dallas Fort Worth area for over a decade, providing high-quality products and unmatched workmanship for a variety of foundation repair issues.

Foundation Repair – DFW

Don’t risk the safety and integrity of your property by trying a DIY foundation repair. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a professional repair job. If you notice large cracks, settling, sloping floors or upheaval, call Align Foundation Repair and schedule a complimentary inspection and free estimate. We are proud to offer affordable services and financing options to our valued customers.

How to Use a Soaker Hose to Water Your Foundation

Using a soaker hose around your foundation is a smart way to safeguard it from the fierce heat of a Texas summer. Without this protection, your foundation can suffer extensive damage that spreads throughout your entire home.

To get the most benefit from your soaker hose, it’s a good idea to follow the tips we’ll outline below. If you’re concerned about the stability of your home’s foundation, please reach out to learn more about our warranty-backed Richardson-area foundation repair services and to schedule a free inspection.

Why dry soil is dangerous for your foundation

Dry soil is one of the worst threats that your home’s foundation can face. Here’s why:

  • When soil dries out, it shrinks away from your home: this will cause the foundation to expand outward, creating micro-fractures that get worse over time.
  • Dry soil will break apart and wash away the moment a good rain comes along: this will create gullies around your foundation that further weaken its support.
  • This combination of expansion and erosion will eventually move the foundation itself out of place: if that happens, then you’re looking at a big repair bill or even worse.

Soaker hose to the rescue

Luckily, there’s an easy way to help prevent these problems. Just use a soaker hose and follow these directions:

  • Make sure the hose is approximately 20 inches away from the foundation – placing it closer may over-saturate the soil and promote erosion. Putting it further away will keep the water from reaching the dirt next to your home.
  • Use the hose 3 to 5 times a week for about 15 to 20 minutes each time – you may need to adjust this schedule if the summer is unusually hot or dry. An automatic timer can really come in handy here.
  • Check the soil’s moisture level from time to time – you want to make sure that it’s moist but not muddy. If you notice pools forming on the soil’s surface, then try cutting back on the water pressure a bit.
  • Avoid connecting multiple soaker hoses, especially if the total length exceeds 50 feet – this can cause the water pressure to drop, robbing the soil of the moisture it needs. It’s better to install additional spigots around your home’s perimeter. That way, you can attach separate soaker hoses as needed.

Call for foundation repair Richardson TX locals depend on

Even the best-maintained home may eventually need foundation repair. That’s why you should give us a call if you notice problems like sticking windows, cracked drywall, or floors that are no longer level.

Our Richardson foundation repair service area includes all of the Dallas-Fort Worth region. Contact us today to schedule a visit from one of our technicians for a no-cost inspection and price quote. Remember, we lead the pack when it comes to foundation repair in Richardson, Texas.

How Expansive Clay Soil Affects Your Foundation

It may not be the first thing you think about as a homeowner, but understanding the type of soil your home is built on can help you protect it from foundation damage. If your house is built on soil notorious for causing foundation issues, such as expansive clay soil, you can be proactive in addressing potential issues before they cause additional, costlier problems.

What is expansive soil?

Expansive clay soil contains high contents of absorbent clay, meaning it swells when wet. This swelling results in pressure that can be enough to crack your foundation walls and floor slabs, resulting in foundation movement that can cause damage to the stability of your home.

Clay soil can expand up to 10 percent in size if it experiences prolonged exposure to moisture.

In addition to the swelling, expansive soil can also shrink when it dries out. This constant change can lead to ongoing issues for your home, putting additional stress on your concrete foundation.

What to look out for with soil expansion and shrinkage

The most common signs that can indicate expansive clay soil is causing issues with your property include:

  • Signs of cracking in your concrete foundation
  • Doors or windows that are sticking
  • Cracking in your plaster wall
  • Cracks affecting your driveway or garage
  • Cracking or separating on brick veneer surfaces of your home

How can you help to reduce the damage to your home?

Expansive soils cause the greatest damage when significant or repeated moisture content changes occur. Therefore, maintaining a constant moisture level can be one of the best ways to help reduce damage to your foundation. You can do this by watering the soil regularly. Keeping the moisture levels consistent helps ensure the ground doesn’t become extremely wet or extremely dry, helping to reduce any impact it has on the foundation.

It’s also a good idea to seek advice from foundation repair experts who can advise whether there are other strategies to consider for your home, such as a new water drainage system. If you already have a drainage system, it can be worth checking to make sure it’s working properly, as well as contacting Align Foundation Repair about installing a new drainage system if you’re experiencing issues. If you’re building a new property, it can be worth investigating the options for creating a sloping site to help with water runoff if you experience a lot of rain where you live.

At Align Foundation Repair, we offer a free inspection to understand your property and make the best recommendations for your home’s foundation.

Want to find out more?

Depending on the weather in your area, you may experience minimal problems with expansive clay, or it could end up causing you a lot of headaches. Taking good care of your home’s structure by watching for signs of foundation issues and seeking advice from professionals at Align Foundation Repair can help you catch and repair problems early on.

Our expert team can spot foundation problems and recommend the right solutions for your home. Get in touch with us today to schedule your free estimate.

Drainage System Process

How Poor Drainage Causes Foundation Problems

Water is one of the greatest detriments to a foundation. Even the most sturdy and modern foundation system will fall far short of its lifespan if it’s exposed to an onslaught of pooling water. This is why homes have gutters and downspouts. Many homeowners don’t believe a seemingly benign puddle can cause foundational damage. This post is intended to convince them otherwise.

The Implications of Poor Drainage Around a House

How exactly does water damage a foundation? Water that is allowed to remain in a single place for prolonged periods produces the ideal growing conditions for mold and fungus. This is especially the case after a storm, which leads to a pooling of gray and even black water. The damage can also extend to the basement. This leads to interior wood rot and increased risk of indoor flooding. In turn, this can damage other components, such as the electrical wiring.

Another problem is that the water can seep into the soil. This can lead to some parts of the soil expanding that shifts the foundation, leading to cracks. The amount of water absorption by the soil depends on the geographic location. Some parts of the Dallas, TX, region have clay soils. This makes a properly functioning drainage system all the more important.

How to Improve Drainage

First, inspect your gutter system. Get on a ladder and clean out any debris. You should do this after every storm. While up there, check the unit for damage. If the gutter is sagging or detaching from the house, then it needs repairs or a replacement. Also, check the downspout. As a general rule, the point where the water exits should at least be three-feet away from the house’s base. We can’t overstate the importance of this. Every inch of rain that hits the roof causes as much as 600 gallons of water runoff that exits the downspout. You don’t want that amount of water resting near the foundation.

Sprinklers are another primary source of pooling water. Invest in a sprinkler and irrigation system that automatically adjusts settings. Nowadays, there are smart sprinkler devices that enable users to turn the system on and off via mobile device.

We Improve Residential Drainage

Our foundation repair services include drainage system repair. Poor drainage near the foundation can result in cost-prohibitive damage. Prevent this altogether by calling Align Foundation Repair.

Springtime Foundation Maintenance Tips

Spring is the season for Richardson homeowners to organize, clean, de-clutter, and address any repairs that need attention. It may also include a foundation inspection and maintenance to ward off potential problems that could prove costly later on.

Checking gutters, fixing roofing damage, and other simple chores can help ensure proper drainage and identify potential issues early in the game. If you notice any worrisome signs during your spring maintenance, a professional home inspection can determine if you need Richardson foundation repair.

Here are some simple tips to ensure your home’s foundation is protected.

Check Your Gutters

Gutters clogged with leaves and debris are a big problem during heavy rains. Thoroughly clean them to ensure they are draining well and also look for minor leaks in the process. Also, make sure that your downspouts direct water away from the foundation, as excess moisture can lead to gradual damage.

Visual Inspection of Concrete Around the House

Walk around the entire exterior of your home, looking for concrete settlement or movement around patios, walkways, garage, and the driveway.  Cracks in the foundation can have many different sources and are not always cause for concern. A professional inspection can determine if the cracks are minor or potential signs of water damage that could require foundation repair services.

Look for Plumbing Leaks

Springtime maintenance also includes evaluating the home for possible plumbing leaks. It is a good idea to have a plumber do a leak test every 12-24 months.

Examine Your Roof

Texas winters can be extreme, so it’s essential to examine your roof for damaged shingles. It’s also an excellent opportunity to inspect the flashing around vents, skylights, and chimneys to ensure no water is leaking in. Replace buckled or cracked shingles promptly. Also, take the time to remove mold and organic debris off the roof surface.

Improve Soil Structure Around the Home

Heavy spring and summer rains can lead to flooding and standing water near the house. The land should be properly graded with well-draining organic compost to improve soil structure around the foundation. If you decide to plant shrubs or ground cover near the home, choose drought-tolerant plants that require little irrigation.

Foundation Repair Richardson TX

If you have encountered a problem during spring maintenance, call Align Foundation Repair for a prompt, free estimate. Our Richardson TX foundation repair service is backed by a Transferable Lifetime Warranty.

We are a family-owned and operated business and trusted foundation repair experts in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Call today for your free foundation repair estimate.