Causes of Foundation Failure

Poor Soil Conditions

Poor soil and its expansion and/or contraction contribute to foundation failure.
Evaporation
Hot dry wind and intense heat will often casue the soil to shrink beneath the foundation. The settlement may cause cracks to appear throughout structure.

Transpiration

Tree roots may desiccate the soil beneath a home causing the soil to shrink and the home to settle.
Plumbing Leaks
Water from plumbing leaks is often a cause of foundation problems.

Drainage

Improper drainage is a leading cause of foundation failure. Excess moisture will erode or consolidate soils and cause settlement.

Inferior Foundation Construction

Insufficient steel and inferior concrete will contribute to movement in the slab.

Inferior Ground Preparation

Soft, low density soils and/or improperly compacted soil beneath a home is the leading cause of foundation failure. Cut and fill situation should be properly prepared before the soil is ready to support a structure.