What Causes Your Foundation to Settle?

Mother nature is a main cause of concrete foundation settlement in Somis and other areas of California. Different soil types are affected by drought and mooisture differently. California soil varies, some of which contain sand and clay. Though moisture doesn't affect sand much, clay changes drastically when saturated with water or falls victim to drought.

Settlement is the movement of your home's foundation due to the underlying soil not being able to support the weight of your home. Though the soil seems the same throughout the years, it changes over time. Somis is one area experiencing a severe drought. After many months of drought, the clay and other soils dry out, shrinking beneath homes and businesses. This creates empty spaces for foundations to settle into. Also, as trees grow and mature, their root systems displace soils beneath foundations. They also absorb what moisture is available in the soil.

The opposite climate characteristics also play a part in settling foundations. After heavy rains or flooding, clay soil can weaken, causing above foundations sink and shift. If your home has poor drainage,  the water can pool and pond next to your home, oversaturating and weakening the soils.

When a neighborhood is created, a common practice of developers involves removing soil from hilltops and placing it in valleys, to create the lots that the homes would be built upon. Over time, this soil will compress, causing the home to settle and sink into the ground. For homeowners in Somis and other areas of California, it's not a matter of if their homes will need foundation repair due to settlement, it's when. 

If you have questions concerning your foundation, call Saber at 1-800-922-2488 to schedule a free inspection and estimate!