HOME SITTING ON CLAY AND SILT SOIL
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR?
WHY DOES THIS HAPPEN?
When soil absorbs water, it expands. When it dries up, it contracts and shrinks back. The type of soil you choose to build on has a huge impact on this process. Clay soil has very fine particles, and therefore, it expands and contracts the most. Silt soil also has fine particles, but does not expand and contract as much as clay soil. If your foundation is built on clay and silt, your house will settle unevenly.
Different areas in your home are shifted and elevated every day. Although this movement is minor, with time it raises concern. If damage such as cracks in the walls and floors occurs, water will find a way into your house, and you may end up with dampness in your basement.
The most serious concern is when there is structural damage. In this case, foundations experience too much shift that the stability of the building is questioned. In such instances, the foundation needs to be repaired. Aquatech Waterproofing comes in handy when you have issues of basement and foundation leaks due to settling of soils.
WHAT SOLUTIONS ARE AVAILABLE?
Changing the type of soil in your property may not be possible. However, the settling process does not continue forever. If your home sits on clay and silt soil, any damages done can be repaired, and the foundations reinforced if needed. Aquatech Waterproofing will advise you on the soil settling process and recommend solutions that will ensure that all the damage is repaired.