Protect Your Home From Expansive Soils

It is a well-known fact that expansive soils can cause serious structural damage to homes. They are often the culprit behind foundation cracks and settlement. These types of problems can cost thousands of dollars to repair. Thankfully, homeowners can take steps to prevent the need for costly repairs.

Expansive soil is a type of clay in the soil that expands when wet and contracts when dry. It contains microscopic-sized minerals that drive it to do this. During a monsoon storm, expansive soil can swell to many times its original size. This can be a major problem for builders and consumers.

If you are building a home in Arizona, you may need to pay special attention to expanding soils. There are several signs to look for when determining if you are in an area where expansive soils may be a problem. Several common indicators of the presence of expansive soil include misaligned windows, a floor heave, and foundation cracks. To help identify if you are in an area that could be at risk for these problems, make sure you get a proper soil test.

In the Phoenix metro area, expansive soils can be found in pockets throughout the city. Some of the more recognizable areas include the foothills of the Valley and Luke Air Force Base. Those who want to avoid expansive soil should avoid planting plants close to the foundation and not deep water their garden. Another way to protect your home from expansion is to have your foundation properly and carefully graded.

Soil volume changes can also affect sidewalks, streets, and pipelines. If you are in an expansive soil area, make sure you install rain gutters to keep water away from your foundation. Keep in mind that water can penetrate concrete, causing the building to crack.

The best way to determine whether you are in an expansive soil area is to have your soil tested by an independent soil specialist. You can also check the map produced by the Natural Resources Conservation Service to see if your area is in an expansive soil region.

Most expansive soils are located in southern states, especially Arizona. However, they are also prevalent in western states. In fact, the majority of homes built in the U.S. are built on expansive soils. Building a house on expansive soils can be difficult and costly.

When you are deciding to build a home, it is important to understand the types of soils that are commonly found in your local area. You can have a qualified geotechnical engineer evaluate your plot of land. There are a variety of ways to minimize the effects of expanding soils on your home. Some ways to prevent an expansive soil issue include not planting trees close to your foundation, limiting the amount of water that is introduced around the foundation, converting to low water usage landscaping and installing drainpipe extensions and underground piping.