Can You Dig It? Steps to Take to Avoid Foundation Issues in the Future.

When a new home is under construction, one of the first phases is to create the foundation. Homes must have a strong foundation in order to be structurally sound. Professionals in the home building industry know how to properly set up an area for a foundation to ensure a home is level and hopefully ready to avoid issues in the future. So, what steps can be taken to avoid foundation issues in the future? Are there ways to avoid problems? Read on to see what should be considered when digging out a new home foundation.

Grading

When a foundation is being set up, it is important to consider the grading around the home. With poor soil excavation, water can be directed towards the foundation instead of away from it. A yard must be graded 6 inches to 10 feet so that the soil is sloping away from the home. Checking the soil slope is essential to avoid water pooling by the foundation which can lead to foundation issues.

Professional contractors working to construct your foundation will understand the need for grading and take the proper steps to ensure the land around the foundation is graded effectively. When consideration is not given to the grading of the soil around the foundation, shifting issues can occur in the future which can affect the entire structure of the home.

Root Systems

Nearby trees and bushes should also be considered when digging out a home foundation. A nearby tree can have a root system that will eventually push against the foundation of the new home. Older trees can have deep set root systems that can move underneath the foundation and cause problems in the future.

To avoid issues with tree roots, be sure to create the new foundation far away from trees. Any existing root systems can be removed to avoid any settlement issues in the future.

Additional Issues to Consider

There are other components that can lead to issues with the foundation of your home in the future if proper consideration is not given. Take for example the backfill. Nonporous backfill should be used in order to remove the risk of foundation cracks if the soil decides to freeze and expand in the future. Soil that has clay or organic matter will hold water which will increase the risk of cracks.

The curing process of the concrete foundation should also not be rushed. Concrete needs to cure slowly so that it will be at its proper strength. Contractors know how to ensure the concrete cures appropriately so that it functions effectively for the new home.

Compacting and the pour should also be considered. If a slab is poured over crushed stone and the stone was not tamped correctly, cracks or settling can take place in the future. The pour of the concrete should also not be interrupted. The form should be filled at once to ensure no issues in the future.

Because the process of building a concrete foundation is so complex, the process is better left to the experts!