Architecture detail of damaged house corner dilapidated old building facade wall over blue sky background. Private abandoned home fall to ruin. Exterior House

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Settling Sounds in Your Richardson Home

The creaks, groans, and pops made by a home are sometimes caused by normal aging as the house settles. Other times, however, they’re an early warning sign that your foundation is in serious trouble. That’s why it’s a good idea to contact Align Foundation Repair if you’ve noticed any unusual sounds inside your residence. We can provide a prompt, free inspection to let you know if there are any serious problems with your foundation and give you a fair price quote if we think any repairs are necessary.

When “Normal” Settling Sounds Are Anything but Normal

Most strange house noises are caused by typical changes in humidity or temperature levels. For example, a drought can cause a cracking sound as the studs dry out and contract. On the other hand, a prolonged downpour can cause your home to creak or groan as it takes on moisture and expands.

Sometimes, however, those odd sounds are your home’s way of telling you that you need foundation repair services. Here’s how this can happen:

  • Your foundation is under constant threat – When it rains, the earth around your home expands and puts harmful pressure on your foundation. When the weather turns dry, the dirt contracts and your foundation loses much-needed support.
  • Your entire home depends upon your foundation – when it starts to fail, the frame itself is subjected to extreme stress.
  • These problems create unusual noises – from squeaking floors to creaking doors and windows. You may even notice loud popping sounds from within the walls themselves.
  • Left uncorrected, these problems will only grow worse – making the inevitable repair bill ever more costly. In some cases, the home itself may become unlivable.

Of course, not every unexplained sound in your home requires Richardson foundation repair. But, given the potential consequences, why not schedule a free inspection just in case? If nothing else, you’ll enjoy added peace of mind.

Why You Should Trust the Job to Us

Diagnosing and repairing a bad foundation requires advanced skills and years of experience. Here at Align Foundation Repair, our North Texas foundation repair experts have decades of combined training and extensive experience using the latest techniques and tools.

Our company has been a respected part of the local community for over 20 years. 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 customers. So you can feel good about entrusting the job to us.

Now is the time to put your worries about those strange noises to rest. Contact our office today to schedule your free inspection.

Deep crack in old brick wall - concept image

What Causes a Foundation to Settle?

A residential or commercial foundation may settle due to a number of factors, including:

  • Drought
  • Drainage problems
  • Poorly compacted soil
  • Earth tremors
  • Tree or shrub roots
  • Leaking water lines
  • Gravity itself

No matter what caused the problem, our foundation repair services can undo the harm and protect your home or business for many years to come. Get in touch with our office today for a free inspection and price quote for our knowledgeable and experienced foundation repair professionals.

What Causes Foundation Settling

To the untrained eye, a building’s foundation may seem solid and unmovable. In reality, however, the soil surrounding the structure is in a constant state of flux due to causes like these:

  • Dry earth – Prolonged periods without rain can cause the soil to contract, making your foundation expand outwards and eventually crack.
  • Drainage problems – heavy rainfall is another threat to your foundation, especially if water pools around the perimeter and floods the soil. The sheer volume of moisture can squeeze your foundation like an object trapped in a vise.
  • Loose soil – when a home or business is under construction, the contractor is supposed to pack and compress the underlying earth. But sometimes this step is overlooked, causing loose, crumbly soil that allows the foundation to sink into the ground.
  • Tremors the slightest shift in the earth’s crust can affect your foundation, even if the quake is too mild for you to consciously notice.
  • Tree or shrub roots spreading roots can harm your foundation in two ways: by drawing out moisture or by shifting the soil. Either problem can cause your foundation to settle and move out of place.
  • Water leaks sometimes the water that erodes a foundation’s support comes not from the sky but from broken water pipes under your home or business.
  • Time and gravity did you know that the average American home can weigh over 100 tons? Imagine the constant pressure created by that kind of weight.

Foundation Repair Richardson TX

No matter what caused your foundation to sink, prompt action is essential to keep the problem from getting worse. That’s where Align Foundation Repair comes into the picture. Here’s what we can do:

  • Reverse the process – one way we do this is by burying steel piers deep in the bedrock and anchoring the foundation to them. Another way is to inject expanding grout under the foundation so that it rises and becomes strong and stable.
  • Prevent the problem from coming back – often, this requires nothing more than improving the drainage around your home or business.
  • Back up our work with a fully transferable lifetime warranty – so you can relax and enjoy your fully restored foundation.

Your Foundation Repair Contractors in Richardson Texas

If you live in our Richardson foundation repair service area, please reach out today to schedule your free inspection. We’re members of the Better Business Bureau and hold an A+ rating with the agency, so you can feel good about entrusting the work to us.

Quick action is important to prevent further damage to your home or business. Give our friendly professionals a call, and you’ll soon have a solid, stable structure beneath your feet once more.

Crack in a cinder block building foundation

When a Foundation Crack Means You Have Foundation Repair Emergency in Richardson, TX

As a homeowner, noticing cracks and other signs of structural problems around your home can be unnerving—and finding the right solution can sometimes feel overwhelming.

Even if you’re a DIY pro, it’s important to contact a professional with the tools and expertise necessary to identify and repair foundation damage around your home. Here’s how to spot the problem early and take action so you can avoid costly structural damage down the road.

What Causes Foundation Damage in Texas?

Texas homes are particularly vulnerable to foundation cracks thanks to the area’s unique soil structure and weather patterns. In our Richardson foundation repair service area, factors that can contribute to foundation damage include loose soil, insufficient drainage, poor construction, earthquakes, and weather changes.

Unfortunately, many of these factors are uncontrollable, and it’s important to inspect your home regularly for foundation damage.

Warning Signs of Foundation Issues

Apart from visible cracks around your home, there are other physical symptoms of foundation damage to look out for. A little unevenness from settling is normal, but if you have any questions about your home’s foundation, don’t hesitate to schedule a home inspection.

Some common signs of a crumbling foundation include:

  • Misaligned doors and windows
  • Bowing walls
  • Sloping floors
  • Cracks in ceramic tile, brickwork, or drywall

When It’s Time to Invest in Foundation Repair

Even if you have preventive measures in place, such as sump pumps and clean gutters, foundation cracks can still lead to a foundation crisis.

The severity of the foundation damage will depend on the location, size, and the number of cracks. Not all homes will exhibit the same signs of settling, and regular foundation inspections are essential to protect your home from structural damage.

No matter how small your foundation cracks are, it’s essential to have them inspected by a trained professional, since some emergency situations may not be so obvious to identify at first glance. If left unchecked, foundation cracks can create additional issues, from roof leaks to framing problems, leading to a costly repair process.

Professional Richardson Foundation Repair Services

Align Foundation Repair is known and respected throughout the Dallas and Fort Worth area for our unrivaled expertise, affordability, and commitment to quality customer service. We’re here to repair your home and do it right. To learn more about our foundation repair services and to get a free estimate, contact us today.

Cracks on the white wall blocks. The destruction of the wall. Background texture

Is It Safe to Live in a House With Foundation Problems?

If you live in a home with foundation issues or you’re considering buying one, you may be wondering what to do next. The bottom line is that it’s usually quite safe to live in a home with foundation problems. It usually all boils down to identifying whether your home is experiencing a common, fixable foundation issue, or if it is a more rare case of severe foundation damage that could put your family in harm’s way.

Your Home’s Foundation Is Very Important

There’s no doubt about it: your home’s foundation is very important for several different reasons:

  • It holds up your home’s entire structure, preventing it from sinking into the ground.
  • If it’s insulated, it can help protect your home from extreme temperature changes.
  • It helps keep water and moisture out of your basement

Very Few Homes With Foundation Issues Are in Immediate Danger

Out of all of the homes that have foundation repair issues, very few of them actually have issues severe enough to warrant an immediate evacuation of the premises. Some repair companies will go out of their way to scare the wits out of potential clients when it comes to foundation repair, but we work differently.

At Align Foundation Repair, we recognize that most people are able to continue living in their homes while a full assessment is done. The reason that most people in our area are in no immediate danger when it comes to foundation issues is due to local conditions: Texas soil and Texas weather!

The clay soil and weather that affect most of Central Texas are the key reasons that area homes’ foundations can become damaged. Clay soil expands when it’s wet, and it shrinks when it’s dry. When the soil is extremely wet, it can cause portions of your home’s foundation to rise. When the soil is extremely dry, it can cause your home to sink lower than the level it was originally set at. Weather in the Dallas-Fort Worth area changes at the drop of a hat, making it more likely for these types of foundation issues to show up.

Reasons You’ll Eventually Want to Take Care of Foundation Issues

While the likelihood of your home collapsing in on itself due to foundation issues is pretty small, there are reasons that you’ll eventually want to get it repaired.

  • Banks are often reluctant to provide financing to potential homebuyers if there are foundation issues with the homes they’re planning on purchasing, limiting your pool of available buyers if you want to sell.
  • The cosmetic and functional issues that come from foundation issues, including uneven floors, growing cracks in the wall, doors and windows that are jammed or can’t close properly, and mold and moisture issues, will only get worse over time, leading to more expensive foundation repair

If you live in our broad Richardson foundation repair service area, contact Align Foundation Repair with any questions about the type of foundation damage you’re seeing in your home. We’d love to help, and offer free inspections and price quotes, as well as warranty-backed repair work.

Home foundation repair inspection contractor

3 Reasons Why You Should Get a Foundation Inspection

Checking your foundation may not necessarily be the first thing you think about when maintaining your home, but it’s an essential item on the checklist if you want to maintain your home’s integrity and avoid severe, costly damage.

Scheduling regular foundation inspections or reaching out to a professional at the first sign of damage for foundation repair services can help you identify and correct issues early before they become much larger problems for your home.

If you haven’t scheduled an appointment with foundation repair contractors in Richardson, TX yet, here are three reasons why you should:

#1 – Keep your family safe

An unstable foundation can be harmful to anyone living in the home. If the soil underneath your foundation has shifted or settled, then your home is no longer sitting on a secure and firm base. This can compromise the structural integrity of your home, which can impact your family’s safety. A foundation inspection can identify the extent of the issues and determine the best approach for fixing any problems. We specialize in Richardson foundation repair. We can identify what needs to be fixed so you and your family can continue to feel safe and secure in your home.

#2 – Preventing further damage

Being proactive and looking for any cracks or damage that may result from foundation issues can help prevent further damage. Small cracks can signify a minor problem with your foundation, or they could be the beginning of a more significant issue. At Align Foundation Repair, we can help resolve the situation as quickly as possible. Being proactive and detecting problems early can help to save you money in the long run by preventing more extensive damage that can occur if left untreated.

#3 – To help you make a sound investment

When buying a home, it’s vital to organize a foundation inspection as part of your due diligence. This can help identify if the house has any foundation issues that could end up costing you thousands. An inspection will enable you to determine the extent of any problems and whether it’s worthwhile to proceed with the purchase. As part of the inspection, we can detail the costs associated with foundation repair in Richardson, TX, so you can determine if you want to move ahead with the sale or amend your offer

When to arrange an inspection

An inspection is a good idea if you notice any of the following signs of foundation damage to your property.

  • Large cracks on your wall (usually about ⅛ inch or more)
  • Unevenness, sloping, or other changes to your floor
  • Doors or windows getting stuck or not closing properly
  • Neighboring homes are experiencing foundation problems

You should also consider scheduling an inspection if:

  • You haven’t yet had your foundation checked by a professional
  • You’re buying or selling your home

Who to contact for foundation repair, Richardson, TX

Align Foundation Repair is a family-owned business that proudly provides Richardson foundation repair services. In addition to the Richardson foundation repair service area, we also service the entire Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Give yourself the gift of peace of mind and contact our team today to schedule your free inspection and quote.

Downspout drainage pipe dripping of rain water

How Does Drainage Affect Your Home Foundation in Richardson, TX?

Good drainage allows rainwater to flow away from your home, preventing erosion and other problems. Poor drainage keeps it trapped against your foundation, where it can cause serious and expensive damage.

If you’re worried that the soil around your home isn’t draining properly, we invite you to get in touch with Align Foundation Repair. Quick action can stop the situation from getting worse. We will provide a prompt, professional, and FREE inspection, identify any problems and offer cost-efficient solutions along with a price quote. Reach out about our affordable foundation repair services today!

Improve your drainage with Align Foundation Repair today.
Contact Align Foundation Repair at 214-463-2974 or online for a free estimate.

How Poor Drainage Can Make Richardson Foundation Repair Necessary

Moisture is one of your home’s worst enemies. That’s why homebuilders work hard to ensure proper drainage around every house they complete.

This includes adding a mild slant, or grade, to the surrounding land. It causes rain to wash away from your foundation and into a sewer, pond, or other collection point. The construction company may also install French drains or other preventative measures.

But a number of factors can cause poor drainage and lead to foundation damage. Examples include:

  • Erosion due to flowing rainwater.
  • Changes to your landscaping – placing trees, plants, and shrubs around your home can enhance its beauty. But it can alter the slope around your house as well.
  • Expansion and contraction – wet soil becomes water-logged and is unable to absorb more rain. Dry soil can leave a gap between your foundation and the surrounding land, weakening your home’s supports.
Don’t settle for poor drainage.
Contact Align Foundation Repair at 214-463-2974 or online for a free estimate.

Can You Prevent the Need for Foundation Repair in Richardson?

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect your foundation right now, such as these:

  • Make sure your gutters and drains are in good shape – keep them free of leaves and other foreign matter and check them for clogs and damage several times a year.
  • Consult with a professional landscaper before planting – he or she may recommend placing trees or shrubs a minimum distance from your foundation to prevent potential problems.
  • Keep an eye on your foundation during rain storms – to see if water flows away from it or pools around the perimeter.

What to Do When You Need Foundation Repair in Richardson Texas

Sometimes foundation damage is too advanced for preventative measures alone. When that happens, it’s time to call us. Here’s how we can help:

  • By performing a free, comprehensive inspection of your foundation – we’ll let you know right away if it’s in trouble and, if so, what we can do to correct the problem.
  • By giving your home the support it needs – this is usually done by inserting concrete and steel pilings deep in the bedrock beneath your home and connecting them to your foundation. Not only will this arrest the problem, often it can actually reverse it.
  • By addressing the root cause – we can refer you to skilled landscapers who will restore the proper grade to your yard. We may also suggest other solutions, such as French drains.

Our crews cover a wide Richardson foundation repair service area, including Dallas-Fort Worth. Our company is a highly respected member of the local business community and we’re happy to provide references from past clients. Contact our office today to put your drainage problems in the past.

Foundation Repair Inspection Free Estimate

How to Handle Foundation Repair in Richardson TX

If you suspect that your home in Richardson, TX, has sustained foundation damage, here are steps you can take to address the issue in the most timely and cost-efficient way possible:

  • Identify the tell-tale signs of foundation damage
  • Schedule a free foundation inspection with a qualified contractor
  • Get any necessary repair work done NOW before problems get worse and cost much more money to fix down the line
  • Once the repair work is finished, enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home’s value is protected well into the future

Contact Align Foundation Repair today if you’re ready to schedule your free inspection and price quote!

Get your repair work from us!
Contact Align Foundation Repair at 214-463-2974 or online for a free estimate.

Step 1: Know the Warning Signs of Foundation Damage

Warning signs of foundation damage to your home include:

  • Doors and windows that don’t fit their frames – this problem is often caused by the foundation shifting and sinking into the earth.
  • Floors that are no longer level and corners that are no longer square – as a foundation degenerates, it literally bends flooring materials and other parts of your home out of shape.
  • Cracks in the slab and/or perimeter walls – tiny hairline fractures may be nothing to worry about. But, when they grow wider and larger over time, it’s time to think about foundation repair.

Step 2: Schedule a Foundation Inspection

The conditions outlined above can have many causes other than foundation damage. That’s why you should have a professional give your home a thorough inspection to uncover the root problem.

Our experienced technicians receive thorough and ongoing training in all aspects of their profession. They also use modern high-tech tools to detect problems that others may overlook.

Schedule your inspection today!
Contact Align Foundation Repair at 214-463-2974 or online for a free estimate.

Step 3: Schedule the Work

If your foundation is in trouble, then the next step is to schedule the necessary repairs. Here at Align Foundation Repair, we make every effort to complete the job in a timely manner. Of course, a number of factors can affect the final timeframe, including the type of work that’s needed.

Step 4: Exploring Financing Options

Some homeowners let worries about costs prevent them from seeking slab foundation repair. Here’s why this is generally not a good idea:

  • The damage will only get worse over time – a bad foundation can quickly lead to problems like a failing roof, mold infestation, and plumbing issues.
  • The work is more affordable than you may think – only a small number of cases require complete foundation replacement. Usually, the problem can be resolved with more affordable methods such as steel pilings or drilled piers.
  • Financing options are available – our office staff can give you the details when you get in touch with us.
Take advantage of Align’s finance options today.
Contact Align Foundation Repair at 214-463-2974 or online for a free estimate.

Step 5: Relax and Enjoy Your Repaired Foundation

One of the biggest benefits of our foundation repair services is the peace of mind they provide. After the job is complete, you can pat yourself on the back, knowing that you’ve taken a positive step to protect your home’s value and your personal well-being.

Foundation Repair Richardson TX Residents Trust

Our Richardson foundation repair service area covers Dallas-Fort Worth and the surrounding communities. Contact us today to schedule your free inspection and estimate. You’ll soon have the facts you need to decide which next step is right for you.

Cracked concrete building wall at the outside corner that effected with earthquake and collapsed ground

4 Misconceptions About Slab Foundation Repair in Richardson TX

Knowing some of the common misconceptions about slab foundation repair in Texas can help you make an informed decision when it comes to addressing signs of structural damage in your home. Four popular myths about foundation repair include:

  1. Cracks are the most common warning sign of a damaged foundation.
  2. Foundation damage is primarily a cosmetic issue.
  3. Foundation repair is one of those jobs that you can put off until later.

Concerned by possible foundation damage to your home? Call the friendly, experienced pros at Align Foundation Repair to schedule a comprehensive, no-cost on-site inspection and price estimate. We’ll give you all the facts you need to decide on how best to deal with signs of structural instability in your home.

Misconception #1: Cracks Are the Only Way to Know That Your Foundation Is Damaged

Cracks are actually only one of the warning signs that your foundation is in trouble. In the beginning, you’re more likely to notice problems like doors or windows sticking in their frames or a floor that’s no longer level.

It’s easy to mistake these issues for signs that your house is going through the normal settling process. For this reason, we recommend getting in touch with us if you notice anything unusual going on with your home.

Misconception #2: Foundation Damage Is Mostly a Cosmetic Issue

All of us take great pride in the way our home looks. So we’re quick to address cosmetic problems.

But foundation damage affects far more than your home’s appearance. It impacts every aspect of its construction, including the frame that supports all the other components. In some cases, it can even threaten the safety and well-being of yourself and your loved ones.

Trying to disguise the damage with paint or other surface remedies does nothing to address the underlying problem. This leads us to the fourth misconception on our list.

Misconception #3: It’s Okay to Put Off Foundation Repair Until Later On

Though we’re all looking for ways to save on our home budgets, some issues require immediate attention. Foundation repair is one of them. That’s because your home’s foundation is critical to its structural integrity. The more you put off addressing your home’s foundation problems, the worse the damage will get – and the more expensive it will be to fix in the long run. In other words, addressing foundation issues in the early stages can save you big bucks down the line.

At Align Foundation Repair, we work hard to make our foundation repair services affordable for our customers, including offering special financing options.

Foundation Repair Contractors Richardson Texas

Not sure how well your home’s foundation is doing? It costs you nothing to find out for sure since we provide free inspections throughout our Richardson foundation repair service area. Contact us today to schedule a visit from our friendly professionals.

How a Freeze Can Affect Your Texas Home Foundation

A Texas winter freeze can negatively impact your home’s foundation. That’s because cold weather can cause the earth around your house to expand or contract, creating stress fractures that lead to problems like these:

  • Doors or windows that no longer fit in their frames.
  • Fractures in the foundation itself.
  • Cracks along interior walls.
  • Floors that are no longer level and rooms that are no longer square.

If you believe that your home has been damaged by winter temperatures, then we urge you to contact us today to schedule a free inspection of your foundation. Our experts will provide a no-cost price quote and give you all the facts you need to make an informed decision about whether our foundation repair services are the right solution.

If you’re afraid that a freeze has damaged your home’s foundation, contact Align Foundation Repair today.

How Winter Weather Can Wreak Havoc With Your Home’s Foundation

Here in Texas, most of the state has dense, clay-like soil that responds quickly to changing moisture conditions. Like a sponge, it expands when wet and contracts when dry.

This push-pull effect creates constant stress on your foundation. The problem can become acute when the ground freezes, as happened during the great blizzard of 2021.

To see what we mean, think of what happens to a can of soda when it freezes. It expands outward and may even split in two, spraying its contents all over your refrigerator.

The effects of these forces can take weeks or even months to become obvious. When they do, you may find yourself facing an expensive repair bill, not only for your foundation but for problems throughout your home.

Contact Align Foundation Repair today and take care of the effects of a freeze before they become major problems.

Not every foundation is affected in this way, of course. But why take chances? After all, for most people, their home is their biggest investment. Protect your home’s value and structural stability by reaching out to us as soon as you suspect a problem.

Foundation Repair Services That You Can Trust

Here at Align Foundation Repair, we’ve spent more than 20 years providing Dallas-Fort Worth foundation repair to our fellow Texans. Here’s what you can expect when you get in touch with us:

  • A prompt response from one of our customer service specialists – we’ll listen to your concerns and schedule a free visit from one of our technicians.
  • A thorough inspection of your foundation – we’ll assess the problem and give you the results right away.
  • A no-cost, no-obligation estimate – we’ll give you an honest and transparent price quote and fill you in about our special financing options.

Align Foundation Repair is a respected member of the local business community. Our rates are fair and we’re happy to provide references from past customers. Get in touch with our North Texas foundation repair experts today to schedule your complimentary inspection.

foundation repair waterproofing

What Is House Leveling and When Is It Needed?

House leveling is the process of restoring a home to a square and level condition. It’s used to correct the problem of foundation settling, which occurs over time as the earth beneath the house erodes or becomes compressed.

Your home may need house leveling foundation services if you’ve noticed any of these warning signs:

  1. Windows and doors that stick – in severe cases, the frames may crack and the glass might shatter.
  2. Cracks in the walls – either inside or outside the home.
  3. Sloping or lopsided floors – that can affect a room’s appearance or even its comfort.
  4. Corners that are out of square – If interior walls no longer meet at a 90-degree angle, then a settling foundation is the likely cause.
  5. Cracked or leaking pipes – due to constant pressure on the home’s plumbing fixtures.
  6. Squeaking or cracking noises – which can indicate that the home’s frame is beginning to fail.
  7. Gaps around ceiling trim or crown molding – this is a likely sign that you need foundation repair.

 House leveling is one of the many Dallas-Fort Worth foundation repair services we provide. Get in touch with us today to schedule your free inspection.

Contact Align Foundation Repair to schedule a home inspection and leveling today.

What Can Cause a Home’s Foundation to Sink

Believe it or not, the ground under your feet is constantly shifting and moving. Most of us don’t notice these changes because they occur slowly, over a period of many years.

A number of things can speed up this process, including the natural settling that occurs after a home is constructed. To understand why, consider that a typical American house can weigh up to 80 tons, which is 40 times heavier than the average automobile.

All of that weight creates constant pressure on the soil underneath your home, amplifying the natural effects of erosion. Eventually, your house will begin to sag and slope, compromising its safety and livability.

Repair the damage from a sinking foundation. Contact Align Foundation Repair for a free estimate.

We Can Fix Your Sinking Foundation

As North Texas foundation repair experts, we have the equipment and expertise needed to make your home sound and level once more. We use industrial-grade hydraulic lifts along with steel or concrete pilings to anchor it to the bedrock deep in the earth. This creates a true long-term solution to the problem.

Get in touch with us today to schedule a visit from one of our trained technicians. You’ll soon have the facts you need to take the next step.