Knowing how to fix soil erosion around foundations is crucial. Spring rainfall is excellent in Dallas, but too much can harm foundations. One issue that heavy rain causes is soil erosion around your foundation. Erosion leads to uneven settling or shifting, which in turn causes cracks in the walls, floors, and foundation. Fortunately, we have affordable solutions you can put in place. Use our steps to address and prevent soil erosion around your home’s foundation.
Causes of Soil Erosion
Let’s start by examining the causes of Soil Erosion. Heavy rain in Dallas can last a long time. The rain washes away soil around the foundation, increasing instability. Add that to lousy drainage, which makes water pool by the foundation, leading to erosion.
- Poor drainage starts with downspout issues and improper guttering. Downspouts discharging water too close to the foundation erode the soil. A lack of gutters causes rainwater to fall in the same spot, leading to soil erosion. Proper gutter installation and maintenance are crucial. See our tips on Gutter and Downspouts.
- Poor landscaping can be another potential cause of soil erosion. Lack of vegetation or improper grading can exacerbate erosion issues around your foundation. Vegetation helps hold the soil in place and reduces the impact of rain on the ground. Improper grading can cause water to flow toward the foundation rather than away from it. Get more information on landscaping. Check out our Foundation Landscaping tips. Review our guide to the best plants for your foundation.
Effects of Soil Erosion on Foundations
- Uneven Settling: Erosion can make soil settle unevenly, leading to foundation settling or sinking. Settling or sinking can compromise the stability of your home and lead to costly repairs.
- Cracks: Uneven settling can cause cracks in the foundation, walls, and floors. That shifting weakens the building’s structure, and these cracks can expand over time, causing more damage.
- Water Seepage: Eroded soil becomes pathways for water to seep into basements or crawl spaces. Seeping water leads to moisture problems and potential mold, which, unfortunately, affects indoor air quality and poses health risks.
- Loss of Support: Soil erosion causes a loss of support, which can harm the foundation and cause more instability and damage. You will see titling or bowing walls and uneven floors.
How to Fix Soil Erosion Around Foundations
Preventing Soil Erosion
Preventing soil erosion is essential. You need to maintain your home foundation’s stability and integrity. Here are some affordable steps. Use them to help prevent or reduce soil erosion around your foundation.
Start with proper grading:
Make soils slope away from your foundation. We recommend a slope of at least 6 inches over the first 10 feet from the foundation. Sloping the soil helps direct water away from the foundation and reduces erosion risk.
DIY Tip: Rent a soil compactor to ensure the slope stays intact. Use a level to check the grade periodically.
Check your gutters and downspouts:
Keep gutters clean. Extend downspouts to discharge water 5-10 feet from the foundation. Check for clogs and damage regularly. Proper gutter and downspout installation are exceptional in reducing the risk of erosion.
DIY Tip: Install gutter guards that reduce debris buildup. Another great benefit is how often you need to clean the gutters.
Use proper drainage systems:
Use adequate drainage systems around your home’s foundation. Install systems that direct water away from the foundation. Items include French drains and swales. These systems can manage water flow and prevent pooling.
DIY Tip: Digging a French drain can be a manageable weekend project. Ensure you have the right tools and materials. Add gravel, perforated pipe, and landscape fabric to your list.
Audit your landscaping:
Plant grass, shrubs, or other vegetation to help hold the soil in place. Use mulch or ground cover to reduce erosion. Vegetation stabilizes the soil and enhances the aesthetic appeal of your property.
DIY Tip: Use native plants well-suited to your climate and soil conditions. Native plants often need less maintenance and water.
Consider Retaining Walls
In extreme cases, consider installing retaining walls. Look at areas with significant elevation changes. In those areas, retaining walls can help prevent soil erosion and manage water flow. Retaining walls provide support, prevent soil from moving downhill, and protect the foundation.
DIY Tip: Use interlocking blocks for small retaining walls. They are easy to use and durable.
How to Fix Soil Erosion Around Foundations
Address Existing Erosion
Has erosion already occurred? Addressing the issue right away is crucial to prevent further damage.
Start with Filling and Compacting Soil
We recommend filling and compacting the soil by your foundation. This helps fix existing erosion. Add soil to eroded areas and compact it to restore proper grading and support for the foundation. Use high-quality soil and ensure it is well-compacted to provide a stable base.
DIY Tip: Use a soil tamper to compact the soil properly. Layer the soil little by little, ensuring it stays compacted.
Consider Erosion Control Products
You may also need to install erosion control products like blankets, geotextiles, or other structures that stabilize the soil. These products can help prevent further erosion and provide immediate protection.
DIY Tip: Erosion control blankets are easy to install. Start by unrolling them over the affected area and securing them with stakes.
Repair Drainage Issues
We recommend that you repair drainage issues. Examples include broken gutters or downspouts placed incorrectly. Both add to erosion. Ensure that water is directed efficiently so that it flows away from the foundation.
DIY Tip: Inspect your gutters and downspouts during and after heavy rains to ensure they are properly moving water away from the foundation.
Get a Professional Foundation Inspection
Has erosion already caused significant damage? Consider having a professional inspect the foundation and recommend the proper repairs. A professional assessment helps identify the underlying issue and provides a comprehensive repair plan.
How to Fix Soil Erosion Around Foundations
Conclusion
Take these steps: Prevent and fix problems. Both protect your foundation from soil erosion and ensure your home’s long-term stability. Be proactive. Address soil erosion before it is a problem, which helps you avoid costly repairs and maintain the integrity of your home’s foundation. Schedule a foundation inspection and evaluate the soil around your foundation for more information. Contact us today.
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