What are the approximate reasons for foundation damage?
-
The material used for the foundation
Sometimes, the material used during the foundation's
construction
can be the cause of the foundation cracks and damage. A foundation may comprise concrete, bricks, stones, or lumber. And the low-grade materials lack durability and strength and eventually results in damage to the foundation.
-
Drainage & Plumbing Leaks
Plumbing leaks mostly sound minor issues in buildings. However, due to constant leakage, water seeps in the sub-floors and weakens the foundation by increasing the soil's moisture. Likewise, improper drainage can be another reason as it oversaturates the soil and causes instability. You can say that water is the most dangerous saint behind the foundation damaging either in the form of leakage or poor drainage.
-
Poor architecture designing and soil conditions
Soil conditions of a site matter a lot for the foundation stability and require proper grading. Otherwise, it results in the foundation upheaval. Moreover, substandard architecture designing and faulty
structure drawings
can lead to flaws and hence damaged base.
Extreme hot and cold climate is another cause of foundation damage as it affects the moisture in the soil. In addition to weather, trees also affect the same way on the moisture of the soil.
Environmental variations affect the foundations; however, it should be kept in mind that those structures that are already vulnerable because of the low-grade materials, soil conditions, drainage, and leakage are affected the most.