FOUNDATIONS

Foundation Performance

All foundations settle due to soil compression.  The settling is not a problem if the amount is small or uniform throughout the foundation area.  If the settling is uneven, parts of the foundation are subject to additional stress which can weaken it.  Much of Houston is  built on clay soils.  These soils expand and contract a great deal with changes in their moisture contend.  This wide range of volume causes stress, which can lead to foundation failure.  Some foundations are installed out of level, without other factors, this does not usually indicate foundation failure.  Factors that may indicate foundation failure include:

1. Visible cracks in the exposed exterior foundation.
2. Windows and doors that stick when operated normally, and which appear out of square.
3. Roof rafters separated from ridge boards.
4. Wall and ceiling surfaces displaying cracks and separation.

Some cracks generally do not indicate foundation failure:

1. Cracks in brick surfaces, not accompanied by foundation cracks.
2. Cracks at the foundation corners, called spalling.