Foundation repair is a concept that sends chills down the spines of many homeowners. Many believe that they will lose thousands of dollars when faced with the task of repairing a damaged foundation.
However, repair isn’t always expensive. This is one of the most common misconceptions that homeowners have about professional repair of their foundations.
Learning the truth about foundation repair will help you approach it in the right way. It will also help you better protect your property from damage. Below are some common misconceptions about repairing foundations and the truth about repair. 
Misconceptions about repairing damaged foundations
- The foundation is always the problem
There are instances where foundations fail due to problems within the structure of the foundation such as weakness due to poor material mixing ratios. However, in most instances, foundations fail due to external forces. The most common culprit is the soil underneath and around the slab. If you have a problem with soil, e.g. poor drainage, you will experience foundation damage. In fact, foundations don’t move unless the soil under and around them moves.
- Water can’t cause movement
Water is a major variable when it comes to the movement of a foundation. The foundation moves because the soil moves. The soil in turn moves when it is either desiccating or hydrating. Soil expands as it absorbs water and pushes against the foundation walls and causes them to bow inward. It shrinks when it loses water and moves away from the foundation, leaving the foundation walls without support.
- Cracks show where the problem is
Cracks are often the first visible sign that there is a problem with the foundation. This doesn’t mean that cracks indicate exactly where the problem is. Cracks occur at the weakest point in the wall.
Cracks however, can help you identify the problem. Observing the shape, length and position of the crack will give you an idea of what is causing damage to the foundation.
What to do when you spot signs of foundation damage
If you spot signs of foundation damage, don’t ignore them. Get in touch with a professional foundation repair contractor in your area and have your foundation inspected. Be sure to apply a comprehensive repair solution to your foundation. This will help to prevent further damage from occurring in the future. You will save money and protect the integrity of your foundation.
Contact the Professionals at Everdry Waterproofing Illinois Today! (630) 769-9300
Creating dry, healthy basements for 40+ years.