A good concrete foundation lies quietly beneath your house, silently holding it up. However, even the best San Antonio foundations don’t last forever, and they will eventually begin to fail. Thankfully, foundations don’t give out without warning, so if you know what to look for, you won’t be caught off guard.
At Hercules Foundation Repair, we’ve seen enough foundations to know how long the average foundation life is. Although you can always contact an expert for an inspection, knowing the warning signs of a failing foundation can help you know when to make that call.
What Is The Lifespan Of A Concrete Foundation?
Most homes have a foundation made of concrete that serves as a sturdy, level base for the walls and roof. Without a foundation, your home would sink into the dirt and fall apart. Although concrete is strong, it isn’t invincible and will eventually start to degrade.
Concrete foundations usually last around 80-100 years. If you’re living in a newer home, you probably won’t have to worry about foundation problems for a while. However, if you live in an older home with an old foundation, it’s best to be familiar with the warning signs of foundation trouble.
What Affects Foundation Life Length?
Although foundations typically last many decades, different circumstances can shorten your foundation’s lifespan. It’s important to understand how different factors can affect the life of your foundation so you can be prepared for any trouble in the future.
Weather
Here in San Antonio, flooding is common in many neighborhoods. During a period of heavy rain, the soil might wash away from your foundation, exposing it to the weather. This can lead to holes and cracking in the concrete. In the summertime, the heat can cause the soil around and under the foundation to dry out and shrink, which can also lead to foundation damage.
Tree Roots
If there is a tree close to your home, the roots may grow under or into your foundation, which can lead to serious cracks and shifting. Tree roots are incredibly strong and are able to shift your foundation as they grow. To prevent this type of damage, we recommend planting any trees 15-20 feet away from your home’s foundation.
Poor Construction
The soil beneath your foundation needs to be packed very tightly to hold up the foundation. However, the builders of the house sometimes fail to pack the soil tightly enough, which leads to shifting and cracks over time.
What Are The Signs Of Foundation Trouble?
If you’re concerned about your foundation, there are a few signs to look for. Over time, these signs become more plentiful and intense, so it’s best to call a professional as soon as you see something wrong. Here are the signs to look for:
- Diagonal cracks on your interior and exterior walls
- Gaps between your windows and walls
- Doors that stick or shut improperly
- Uneven floors
- Musty or mildew smell
- Cracked chimney
A failing foundation can lead to many different issues that can be addressed on their own. However, it’s important to treat the root of the issue instead of focusing on each individual mishap. If you think your foundation is failing, don’t wait to call for help.
How Do I Schedule Home Foundation Repair?
If you’re looking for San Antonio foundation repair, Hercules Foundation Repair is on the job. We know what to look for when it comes to failing foundations, and we know how to make the right repairs to keep you and your loved ones safe. Call us today to schedule an inspection!
