Foundations & Soils
Request EvaluationTypical Foundations & Soils: Introduction
The performance of residential structures depends not only on the proper design and construction but also on a proper foundation maintenance program. Many residential foundations have experienced major foundation problems as a result of owner’s neglect or alterations to the initial design, drainage, or landscaping. This has resulted in a considerable financial loss to the homeowners, builders, and designers in the form of repairs and litigation.
A properly designed and constructed foundation may still experience distress from vegetation and expansive soil which will undergo volume change when correct drainage is not established or incorrectly controlled water source becomes available.
The purpose of this document is to present recommendations for maintenance of properly designed and constructed residential projects in Texas.
Drainage Maintenance
Positive drainage should be maintained during the useful life of the residence
Landscaping Maintenance
One of the most critical aspects of landscaping is the continual maintenance of properly designed slopes
Erosion Protection
Proper erosion control systems should be in place to assure the stability of the slopes
Tree Maintenance
One of the great things I like about Houston and the surrounding communities is the abundance of trees
Winter Sprinklers
Have you ever wondered if turning off your sprinkler is actually causing more harm than good
Typical Foundations
Foundations for support of residential structures in Texas consist of pier and beam type foundation, spread footing foundation, conventionally reinforced slab, or a post-tensioned slab. A soils exploration must be performed before a foundation system can be designed.
General Soil Conditions
Variable subsoil conditions exist in the State of Texas area. Highly expansive soils exist in parts of Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin and another place in Texas. In general, the concentrations of expansive soils are along the east side of the state.
Sandy soils with potential for severe perched water table problems as a result of poor drainage are present in North and West Houston, including portions of Pine Point, Hedwig Village, The Woodlands, Kingwood, Atascocita, Cypresswood, Fairfield, etc.
A perched water table condition can occur in an area consisting of surficial silty sands or clayey sands underlain by impermeable clays. During the wet (rainy) season, water can pond on the clays (due to poor drainage) and create a perched water table condition. The sands become extremely soft, wet, and lose their load carrying capacity.
Schedule Your Evaluation Today
Foundation repair can be a very costly investment. Before you schedule the work, have Foundation Check evaluate your home’s foundation to ensure you only get what you need.