Why Foundations in Austin, San Antonio, and Central Texas Fail

Foundation Problems are Common
in the Austin & San Antonio Areas.

Central Texas has a widely varying geological complexion. There are areas with sandy soils, expansive soils (i.e. red clay, black clay, and sandy loam), areas of limestone rock and more. Those who live on weathered rock formations may think they will have no foundation problems because the rock is generally non-expansive. However, expansive shale and weathered limestone present their own set of potential foundation problems.

Foundation Problems are a Result of 1 or more of the Following:

• Expansive Soils

  Soils with high clay content, or expansive soils, swell with moisture then shrink when dry. This means a house’s foundation rises and falls depending on the amount of moisture in the soil.

  Continuous movement of the foundation can lead to extreme cracking in walls and floors.

  Periods of drought or excessive rain, much like the weather conditions in Central Texas, contribute to the problems which can arise from expansive soils.

• Inadequate Drainage

  Homes and businesses affected by inadequate drainage are those that were not constructed on an elevation that drains water away from the building and buildings that lack proper gutters and downspouts.

  The consequences of this can include soil erosion underneath or around the structure which may cause the structures to shift.

• Plumbing Leaks

  Water leaks from showers, sinks, bath tubs, and toilets can occur under the slab or pier and beam foundation.

  Leaks may be invisible while causing serious foundation problems much the same as the problems cause by inadequate drainage.

• Inferior Foundation Construction

  The foundation may be too thin, lack sufficient support, reinforcing metal framework may be inadequate, or concrete may not have been properly cured. All of which contribute to an unstable foundation.