Florida Soil Problems
The soil beneath homes and businesses in Florida contain earth materials that can cause these structures to become damaged. The soil in Florida shrinks and swells depending on the moisture content. When the soil becomes wet, it will swell and when it is dry, it shrinks. This fluctuation of the water table beneath the structure, causes the structure to shift and move.
Water table naturally moves up and down depending on the amount of rain the is received in the area. When large amounts of rain cause the water table to become higher than usual, this will cause the subsurface soil to swell. In times of drought, the water table will result in lower than the normal water table.
The Hawthorne Group is a grouping of several geologic formations in northern Florida. Smectite is a type of clay that swells when wet and shrinks when dry and is common through the Hawthorne Group. The acidity of the water when it comes in contact with smectite contributes to the shrinking and swelling effect.
Organic matter is also common in the subsurface of Florida. When this organic matter is exposed to air, it becomes oxidized and is slowly destroyed. It loses volume and shrinks.
Soil Problems Lead to Foundation Problems
All of these subsiding soil conditions can cause foundation shifting and settling along with the formation of sinkholes. It is important to know the signs of foundation problems. Some of these signs are:
- Wall cracks
- Floor cracks
- Leaning chimney
- Bowing or leaning walls
- Ceiling cracks
- Stoop and porch problems
- Garage column cracks
- Sticking doors and windows
All of these signs may indicate that your foundation has shifted and moved, causing eventual foundation failure.
It is important to contact an expert in foundation repair to come and inspect your home and see if you are in need of foundation repair. Foundation Professionals of Florida can come and give you a free inspection in Jacksonville, FL, and the surrounding area. We have the solutions to repair your foundation and also can help prevent sinkhole formation.
We use underpinning products such as steel push piers and helical piers to lift and stabilize your foundation. These piers are driven deep into the ground, through the unstable soil layers, until they reach a solid soil bedrock. Then the entire weight of the structure is hydraulically lifted onto the piers to make your structure level and structurally sound for many years to come.
Foundation Professionals of Florida also offers sinkhole remediation. We use cement grouting and polyurethane grouting to stabilize the soil, strengthen it and fill the sinkhole.
With the experience of Foundation Professionals of Florida and with the best products used for your repair, you can be assured that the repair will last for many years to come.
It is a good idea to have an expert come and inspect your property and soil before a bigger problem arises. Let Foundation Professionals of Florida give you a free inspection and ease your concerns. Contact us today!
