Sinking & Settling Foundations

Uneven foundation settlement can occur at any time with a home, regardless of whether it's new construction or its been there for a hundred years. Residential ResQ can determine the cause of the settling foundation and make any repairs or adjustments that are needed.

Settling occurs because the underlying soil shifts or compacts. This can be due to the foundation being placed on poorly prepared soil or if the moisture content changes in the soil. Some settlement is to be expected after construction for a few years, however, structural damage is not usually a result.

Foundation Damage And Settlement

When you begin having problems with doors and windows sticking or if you discover cracks bigger than a 1/4 inch, then you should be concerned about structural issues. Plumbing or mechanical equipment can also be affected by foundation settlement. In new construction, you can expect some small, hairline cracks to appear due to shrinkage of thermal movement, however, if you see new cracks or expanding cracks in an established home, you should be concerned.

If your home is built on soil that has voids, or if the soil was not compacted correctly, you may notice growing cracks in your foundation. The settling can occur years down the road, whenever the ground eventually shifts. The settling will continue until the soil is compressed completely by the weight of your house. Normal soil compaction is to be expected, so even if you do have a crack, it doesn't necessarily mean it is going to get worse. Only a trained inspector will be able to tell you if there are more problems to be expected in the future.

Soil conditions can change due to many factors:

  • Mining operations
  • Frost heave
  • Oversaturated soil
  • Drought conditions
  • Decaying tree roots

If you want to be sure that your home will be stable for years to come, have one of our experts at Residential ResQ come out to your house and give you a free inspection. Our friendly and knowledgeable team will make sure to answer any questions you may have and give you the confidence of a job done right. Contact us today and see why Residential ResQ is the right choice for foundation settlement in Connecticut and the surrounding area.

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