Erosion and Shifting Foundations in Raleigh, NC? Tips from the Pros

Does the base of your house look like it’s wasting away, as if it’s a cruel joke from Mother Nature and Father Time?

You’re not the only one noticing this. Foundation problems are all too common in our area, largely because of soil erosion and shifting soil in Raleigh.

Structural issues and house settling can be a homeowner’s nightmare, but understanding the causes and solutions can help you take control of the situation. Here’s what you need to know about soil erosion in Raleigh, shifting foundations, and when to bring in foundation repair experts.

• Clay Soil: Expansive clay (often called “shrink-swell soil”) absorbs water and expands when wet, then contracts when dry. This constant movement can cause house settling and cracks in the foundation.
• Sandy Soil: Sandy soil drains better than clay, but it erodes more easily, leading to shifting soil in Raleigh and destabilized foundations.
• Heavy Rains and Droughts: Sudden downpours can wash away soil, while prolonged dry spells cause clay soil to shrink, leaving foundations unsupported.
• Poor Drainage: Water pooling around your foundation accelerates erosion and weakens the soil, leading to structural settlement.
• Tree Roots and Landscaping: Large trees absorb moisture, which can dry out soil unevenly, contributing to shifting foundations.

• Cracks in Foundation: Horizontal cracks, stair-step cracks in brick, or widening gaps can indicate foundation settlement.
• Drywall Cracks: Cracks in drywall, especially at the corners of windows or doorways, indicate foundation movement. Drywall nail pops are also common symptoms.
• Gaps in Walls and Floors or Ceilings: Separation between floors and walls, ceilings, or baseboards could mean the structure is shifting.
• Sticking Doors and Windows: When a house settles unevenly, frames warp, making it difficult to open and close doors and windows.
• Uneven Floors: If you notice sloping or sagging floors, shifting soil may be causing your foundation to sink or shift.

• Large Cracks: Small hairline cracks are often cosmetic, but anything larger than ¼ inch could indicate serious structural settlement.
• Sudden Changes: If new cracks appear quickly or existing ones grow, your foundation is likely shifting at a concerning rate.
• Doors and Windows That Won’t Close: This is often a sign of significant house settling and should be checked by a professional.
• Pooling Water Near the Foundation: This can accelerate erosion and lead to long-term damage.

• Improve Drainage: Keep gutters clean and direct downspouts away from the foundation.
• Grade the Soil Away from the House: A slight slope or positive yard grade can help prevent water from pooling near your foundation and contributing to soil erosion in Raleigh.
• Monitor Cracks: Use a ruler or crack monitor to track growth over time.
• Water the Soil During Dry Spells: Prevent excessive shrinkage in clay soil by maintaining consistent moisture levels.

• Foundation Piers: Adding support beneath the foundation to stabilize it.
• Crawl Space Jacks: Reinforce damaged, sagging floors and floor joists.
• Moisture Management: Basement waterproofing or crawl space waterproofing and encapsulation measures help redirect water to prevent erosion.

Soil erosion and shifting soil in Raleigh are real concerns, but early intervention can prevent costly repairs. Keep an eye out for shifting foundations, house settling, and cracks in the foundation, and don’t hesitate to consult a foundation expert if you suspect a problem. While DIY maintenance helps, professional solutions provide long-term stability and peace of mind.

Tar Heel Basement Systems has more than 20 years of experience with diagnosing structural settlement issues and repairing them with customized solutions built to last. Contact us today to schedule a free inspection and estimate and kick soil problems to the curb.