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.

Downspout drainage pipe dripping of rain water

3 Tips to Prevent Foundation Damage During Wet, Rainy Months

The spring season is typically known for rainy weather, which can pose a threat to the stability of your home’s foundation. Moisture from wet weather can infiltrate through cracks and crevices in the concrete, damaging the foundation and creating conditions for instability over time. Thankfully, there are a number of time-tested preventative measures to keep your home’s foundation protected against water damage, including drainage systems and gutter cleaning.

If you have noticed signs of foundation damage to your home, we invite you to contact Align Foundation Repair today for a free professional inspection. Our foundation repair services experts will comprehensively evaluate your foundation and give you a complete picture of the current state of your home’s underlying structure – all at no-cost to you. We offer free estimates in our Dallas-Fort Worth and Richardson foundation repair service area.

Here are three helpful tips to keep your home’s foundation safe from harm during the rainy season.

3 Ways to Prevent Heavy Rain Damage to Your Foundation

Installing a Good Drainage System

Installing a good drainage system is a key step toward protecting your foundation from rain damage.

  • Ensure that the soil around your home is graded away from the house’s foundation. This will help prevent moisture from collecting under the house.
  • Install a French drain system around the perimeter of your house. This will relieve runoff and allow water levels in your yard not to exceed capacity during heavy rains.

Call us today for foundation repair Richardson TX homeowners know will get done right the first time. Get your complimentary foundation inspection in the Richardson area. We offer top-tier repair or replacement work with a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee.

Ensure the Gutters are Working Properly

Clean gutters are vital in making sure your foundation drains properly.

  • Clear the gutters of leaves and debris regularly.
  • Make sure to flush the downspouts.
  • Clear your gutters before winter to prevent ice dams.

Avoid Ponding Water

  • Manage puddles by redirecting water through a grate drain.
  • Buy extra-long downpipes if needed to release water at a greater distance from your home’s foundation.

Premium Richardson Foundation Repair Services

Searching for the best foundation repair contractors Richardson TX has to offer? Align Foundation Repair fits the bill, with a long track record of reliable work and total customer satisfaction, backed up by industry-leading guarantees. Get in touch today to ask about our affordable premium services and to schedule your free Richardson foundation inspection and repair estimate!

Cleaning gutters during the summer time.

Spring Home Improvement Checks That Will Benefit Your Foundation

Spring is the perfect season for home improvement projects. The days are longer, the temperatures are warming up, and it’s a great time to get outdoors and tackle those much-needed chores around the house. This checklist will help keep your property in tip-top shape while also benefitting your foundation.

Spring Home Improvement Projects to Preserve Your Foundation

If you notice exterior cracks, foundation settling, or doors that won’t open or close properly during your Spring overhaul, call Align Foundation Repair for all of your Richardson foundation repair needs. Our professional contractors can determine what measures are necessary – if any – and recommend foundation repair services that will work within your budget.

Clean Your Gutters

Gutters and downspouts play a vital role in keeping water damage and leaks at bay. For this reason, a thorough gutter examination and cleaning should be performed every spring. Remove fallen leaves, branches, and debris to ensure that water is draining away from your home’s foundation. Pooling water near the foundation can lead to extensive damage over time, causing the home to sink and settle.

Test the Irrigation System

Sprinklers have a definite lifespan, so it’s worth checking each unit to ensure it’s working properly when spring rolls around. Look for cracked or broken heads, and also directional sprays. Run each irrigation zone separately, and walk the garden to look for problems. Adjust sprinklers that are spraying the side of the house or patio, as this can create moisture problems in the foundation, and also waste water.

Check Exterior Walls

Number three on your spring home improvement checklist is inspecting exterior walls. Look for mildew, pest damage, and cracks. Cracks found in walls over windows and doorways could indicate that the house is settling more dramatically than normal. While it’s not cause for panic, it’s best to address problems promptly before they get any worse, and more expensive to fix.

Look for Foundation Cracks

While it’s perfectly normal for foundations to settle and develop tiny fissures in the early years following construction, larger gaps and cracks can be cause for concern. Foundation damage can be caused by poor drainage, as well as weather and soil conditions. If you suspect warning signs of structural damage, always get a professional opinion.

Expert Foundation Repair Richardson TX

These tips can help prepare your home for the coming season, and potentially ward off problems that could undermine the integrity of your foundation. If you’re looking for foundation repair contractors Richardson TX property owners rely on, you’ve come to the right place.

Schedule a free estimate today anywhere in our Richardson foundation repair service area. Align Foundation Repair is dedicated to providing our customers the highest quality service, and our work is backed by an industry-leading warranty.

Heavy Spring Rain and How It Affects Your Foundation

Spring downpours can wreak havoc on your outdoor plans, but did you know that heavy rain can even cause damage to your foundation? While moderate showers pose little cause for concern, extended periods of intense rainfall can be problematic in terms of structural integrity.

Foundation problems are more likely if your home has improper drainage, or was built on expansive soil. For over two decades, Align Foundation Repair has helped home and business owners in Richardson, Texas, and the surrounding region resolve issues brought on by springtime precipitation.

When it comes to your home’s foundation, you can’t be too cautious or prepared. Understand the effects of heavy rainfall, and call us for all of your Richardson foundation repair needs.

Extended rainfall and poor drainage

Water should always have ways to channel away from your foundation. As part of your annual spring cleaning, make sure your downspouts and gutters are clear of debris and directing water away from your slab or pier and beam foundation. Areas of standing water near the foundation should be addressed promptly to avoid more expensive and labor-intensive repairs later on.

Expansive soil and heavy showers

As rainwater seeps into the ground, soil naturally expands. The area’s clay-laden soil drains very slowly, and that can also spell trouble for foundations. When the soil is completely saturated for days on end, this puts immense pressure on the foundation, which can crack or heave.

Watch out for small foundation cracks

Tiny, hairline cracks in poured concrete foundations are common. But if you notice cracks larger than an eighth of an inch after substantial rains, this could be indicative of a larger problem. Foundation cracks can signal that the soil is expanding and putting pressure underneath the foundation, and may eventually provide entry points for groundwater leakage.

Signs of a sinking foundation

Although rare in homes with good drainage, periods of heavy rain can cause drastic foundation settlement. Be alert for possible signs that your foundation is sinking:

  • Musty odors, dampness in basement walls
  • Bowed walls
  • Fissures in and around doors and windows
  • Cracks in concrete floor
  • Doors that stick
  • Leaning chimney
  • Major cracks in bricks and masonry

Whether you need to identify potential foundation problems in a single-family home or a commercial building this spring, Align Foundation Repair has the skillset and experience to get the job done right. Our team provides foundation repair services that are effective, reasonably priced, and backed by guarantee.

Foundation Repair Richardson TX homeowners trust

Being prepared is half the battle when bad weather sets in. If you’re noticing some signs of foundational damage, time is of the essence. Our professionals can address the underlying problems and help keep your property safe.

Choose foundation repair contractors Richardson TX homeowners know they can depend on. Give us a call to schedule an inspection anywhere in our Richardson foundation repair service area. Schedule your free inspection and estimate today!

Can You Repair Your Foundation During the Wet Spring Season?

Yes, it is possible to perform many types of foundation repair during the wet spring season. While in some cases heavy downpours or serious storms might cause slight delays in foundation repair work as the contractors wait out the bad weather, for the most part, the experienced pros at Align Foundation Repair can use a variety of techniques – such as temporary enclosures and plastic sheeting to keep the site dry, as well as the use of special waterproof materials – to keep things on schedule and make sure your repairs are done in an effective and timely manner, no matter what Mother Nature throws at us.

In fact, having your foundation inspected in the spring can save you from costly repairs down the road. Identifying and fixing problems now can protect your home from further water damage caused by rain and unstable wet soil. This is especially true if the problems are located in your crawlspace or along your foundation’s interior walls.

Here at Align Foundation Repair, we have more than 20 years of experience with Richardson foundation repair. We use the latest tools and techniques to diagnose the problem and apply the correct solution.

Our rates are fair, our work is guaranteed, and we work in all types of weather. Get in touch with us today to schedule a free inspection from one of our experts.

The Link Between Wet Weather and Foundation Problems

Your foundation is under year-round assault from all types of weather, like sweltering summer days and frigid winter nights. But heavy rains pose a special threat to its structural integrity. Here’s why:

  • Soil expands as it becomes saturated, applying enormous compressive force against your foundation – this is similar in principle to what will happen if you squeeze an egg between your fingers. It will crack and crumble.
  • Rainwater may find its way into your crawlspace, where it can weaken the cement that holds your foundation together – it can also lead to other issues, as we’ll discuss in a bit.
  • Rainwater can even wash away the soil upon which your foundation rests – this can create a wide range of problems, from unlevel floors to dangerous sinkholes.

Not All Foundation Problems Are Obvious From the Outside

It’s important to check the outside of your foundation for cracks and other problems. Sometimes it’s also necessary to crawl under the home and inspect the interior as well.

However, a contaminated crawlspace can be a dangerous, germ-filled environment. That’s why it’s best to let an expert in foundation repair tackle this job. Our technicians use the proper equipment and safeguards to protect their health and well-being – and yours.

Here’s what they may find during their inspection:

  • Interior cracks and stress lines that are invisible from the outside spring is a great time to check for these problems, before the long summer months cause them to expand and get worse.
  • Mold and mildew – which can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms.
  • Rats, insects, and other vermin – these pests can destroy insulation, chew away at electrical wires, and plant their feces in your HVAC system. Eventually they may find their way into the home itself, posing a direct threat to you and your loved ones.

The only way to correct these problems is with professional foundation repair services. Putting off this essential service will only cause more problems down the road.

Foundation Repair Contractors Richardson TX

For foundation repair Richardson TX locals can count on, choose Align Foundation Repair. We have been a respected part of the local business community for more than two decades. We’re members of the Better Business Bureau and hold an A+ rating with the agency. Plus, we’re always happy to provide references from past clients.

If you live within our broad Richardson foundation repair service area,

contact us today to schedule your free inspection and estimate. You’ll soon have all the facts you need about the state of your foundation to decide on next steps.

man with water hose watering the grass

Should I Water My Foundation in Texas During Winter?

Yes, you should water the soil around your Texas home year-round to avoid foundational issues that can lead to cracked walls, doors that stick, uneven floors, and structural hazards. During the cooler, dryer months of winter, the soil around your Texas home can dry out and shrink, causing the foundation to settle or tip and leading to costly damages to your home.

Richardson foundation repair work can be avoided by keeping the soil moist throughout the entire year and scheduling regular inspections.

How winter weather can affect your foundation

Foundation problems during colder months aren’t caused by a poor-quality foundation but relate to the soil that the foundation sits on. Texas soil is predominantly made up of clay, including black gumbo and caliche, which typically react to changes in water. Changes in the amount of moisture in the air can lead to soil cracking. If your soil cracks, it can lead to uneven settling of your foundation.

How to protect your foundation this winter

Keeping the moisture level of your soil consistent around the year can help prevent shifting and settling. Here are two steps to keeping your soil moist in the winter:

  1. Use a soaker hose or an in-ground sprinkler system and set it up approximately 18 inches from the foundation of your home.
  2. Use less water than you would during summer. The summer heat can cause more evaporation, so even though winter droughts in Texas can cause more drying, the cooler weather allows the soil to soak up and keep more of the water it receives.

Top tips for watering the soil around your foundation

  • Avoid over-watering. Using too much water can make the ground too soft. If the ground starts to become squishy, stop watering.
  • Don’t place the soaker hose in direct contact with the foundation as it can lead to water pooling, turning your firm soil into mud. This can affect the soil’s ability to support your home’s foundation.
  • Avoid connecting more than one soaker hose, which can lead to uneven watering.
  • Ensure watering won’t drain towards your house by filling any low-lying places that may collect water near your home.
  • If the amount of water your neighbor is using affects the soil on your property, ask them to stop.

How often should you water your soil?

How often you need to water can depend on how dry it is during winter. If we don’t get much rain during January or February, it’s essential to water the soil of your foundation at least two to three times throughout the month, for approximately 20 minutes at a time. Keep an eye on your sprinkler or soaker hose, and ensure you don’t overwater the soil. You’re aiming to keep a consistent moisture level in the soil around your foundation, so if it’s a really dry winter, you may need to water more frequently.

How do I check if my foundation is damaged?

We recommend that you check the exterior of your home during winter to look for cracks or issues that may affect your foundation—however, foundation damage isn’t always as apparent. Scheduling an inspection with Richardson foundation repair experts could help you identify potential issues early, before they turn into larger problems, saving you time, money, and headaches in the future.

Foundation repair Richardson TX contractors

If you need foundation repair services in Richardson, TX, contact Align Foundation Repair. Our family-run business prides itself on customer service and offers free repair estimates to help you plan your home maintenance needs. In addition to our Richardson foundation repair service area, we also service the entire Dallas-Fort Worth area. Contact our foundation repair contractors in Richardson, TX today to schedule a free inspection for your home.

Home inspector checking if home needs foundation repair

Regular Foundation Checks are an Essential Part of Home Maintenance

Checking your foundation might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about home maintenance and repairs. However, your home’s foundation is the structural support of your house, so ensuring it’s in good condition is vital to keep you and your family safe.

At Align Foundation Repair, we understand the typical issues that impact foundations in the Richardson area, including what to look for and how to get them fixed.

Detecting problems early can save you money

Like most home maintenance issues, identifying problems with your foundation early on can save you money. If these issues are left unchecked, they will only get worse. The bigger the issue, the more it’s going to cost you.

While it’s normal for some movement to occur, we recommend monitoring your home for any changes, such as cracks in your walls. Some cracks are nothing to worry about, but getting your foundation checked by a professional offers you peace of mind.

Further, establishing a routine for regular checks will ensure your foundation remains in good condition, which can also help increase your home’s value if you’re looking to sell it.

Protection against structural damage due to a natural disaster

Having a well-maintained foundation can help to keep your family safe should a crisis occur. In Richardson, TX, the risk of tornado damage is much higher than the Texas average—and even higher than the national average. Without foundational integrity, the impact of a tornado can be much more severe. Protecting your home against structural damage should a natural disaster occur–is especially important for those living in Richardson.

When to seek help

It’s essential to contact a professional if you notice any of the following in your home:

  • Sloping or uneven floors in your home
  • Cracks in any exterior or interior bricks
  • Cracks or bowing in your home’s walls
  • Wall rotation
  • Cracked or displaced moldings around windows or doors
  • Cracking in the flooring of your home
  • Issues opening or closing your doors or windows
  • Cracking in the home’s foundation
  • Separation of doors, windows, or your home’s garage doors
  • Any spaces or gaps between your walls and the ceiling or floor
  • Walls that appear to be separating from the house

Why it’s essential to use a professional

Some home maintenance jobs are suitable to attempt as a DIY job. However, when you’re dealing with your home’s foundation, it’s important to get experienced professionals you can trust to ensure the structural integrity of your family home.

Most foundation repair projects require specific tools and machinery, most of which aren’t available at the hardware store. Some foundation repairs may even require engineered systems and specialized products to guarantee a long-term solution to your issues. We recommend booking a regular foundation inspection as part of your home maintenance plan.

Foundation Repair Richardson, TX

If you are looking for a high-quality Richardson, TX foundation repair service, our local and specialized team at Align Foundation Repair can help. We provide reliable inspections and free estimates. We’ve been offering foundation repair services in the entire Dallas-Fort Worth area for years. Get in touch with us today to find out more about how we can help.

Brick chimney on house

Why Is My Chimney Pulling Away From My House?

It’s disconcerting when you realize that the chimney is pulling away from your house. It’s usually an indication that something is seriously wrong, and the issue will need to be dealt with sooner rather than later. A leaning chimney can happen to even the most well-constructed home. If you see that the chimney is pulling away, contact us at Align Foundation Repair in Richardson, TX.

Foundation Issues Can Lead to Chimney Issues

There are several possible reasons why your chimney could be leaning, but one of the most common reasons is an issue related to your home’s foundation.

The part of a foundation that supports the chimney is usually built on an area that extends out from the house. With some builds, this area may or may not even be attached to the main part of the home’s foundation. The spot where these two areas of the foundation meet are weaker–making it more likely to become prone to issues. In addition, chimneys are also extremely heavy, exerting immense weight. Thanks to the weight of the chimney and the vulnerable area of the foundation, the chimney can eventually start to lean.

Foundation Problems That Cause Leaning

The foundation issues mentioned are due to several different scenarios.

  • Erosion can cause water and moisture to get into and below your home’s foundation. Once water gets down there, the support system gets worn away. This causes cracks in it, or it begins to pull away from the house, putting the chimney and other parts of your home in jeopardy.
  • The weather in Texas causes the soil to contract, making it easy for home foundations to shift.
  • The age of your house can also affect the foundation. Even well-constructed older homes can develop weaker foundations over time, raising the likelihood of your chimney becoming displaced.

As a result of the above, the foundation can slowly separate from the rest of the home, causing the chimney to lean. If you don’t take care of the issue in a timely manner, it will only worsen, creating structural issues that become increasingly dangerous and expensive.

Get Help Soon with Align Foundation

We understand how important it is to take care of foundation issues. In addition to being a likely cause of a leaning chimney, foundation issues can also cause other problems, such as cracks in walls and ceilings, doors that won’t properly close, sloping floors, mildew, and insects. At Align Foundation Repair, we’ll help you determine the reason behind your leaning chimney so that we can get it fixed–keeping your home safe and beautiful. Call us today or fill out our contact form if you’re looking for foundation repair in Richardson.