Your home is your fortress, but, if there are cracks in your foundation, the entire house could be at risk of severe structural damage. While many homeowners know to watch out for cracks or bulging basement walls, they may not always understand the culprits that cause them to need foundation repairs in the first place. However, water isn’t the only issue that can harm your foundation.

While water-related issues such as plumbing leaks and excess moisture in the soil are certainly the biggest risk your structure faces, they are far from the only causes for concern. The following problems may also necessitate foundation repairs:

• Tree Roots: Growing roots from a tree—or even a large bush—can put added pressure on the foundation of your home. This can quickly result in hairline cracks, which, over time, will develop into a more serious structural issue. Roots can grow a distance equal to the tree’s height, so you should avoid planting large trees near your home.
• Poor Soil Composition: Homes in areas with clay soils and other expansive soil types are often vulnerable to foundation damage. As certain soils are more prone to shrinking, expanding, or heaving, varying moisture levels can cause settling and cracks. Soil that wasn’t compacted properly after the foundation was laid can also result in similar issues.
• Drought: Too much water can be devastating for your foundation, but so can a lack of water. Drought conditions can cause a gap to form between the compacted soil surrounding a structure and the foundation itself. This makes it easy for the foundation to shift and crack.

With locations in Kentucky and Ohio, the team at Stan Young Drainage is well-equipped to assist with your foundation repairs. From providing structural repairs to waterproofing your basement to prevent future problems, they’ll keep your home in top shape. Visit them online or call (859) 816-5613 today to learn more about their services.