Is Clay Soil & Heavy Rain Weakening Your Wexford Home’s Foundation?

If you’re frantically searching for foundation repair in Wexford, PA, don’t worry; you’ve come to the right place. We understand your panic, frustration, and need for a lasting solution, and we can help.

First, let’s reach back into the old memory bank. Do you remember playing in the dirt as a kid? Did you enjoy squishing dark soil between your small fingers until they were completely filthy, requiring a good washing from Mom? It’s time to tap into that childlike sense of wonder again. No, we’re not asking you to play in the dirt, but it is important to understand your property’s soil type.

Your home is likely built on clay-rich soil. Clay soil foundation issues in Wexford are common, but they can be fixed. This article explains clay soil’s impact, how to recognize foundation damage, and how to address it with effective foundation repair solutions.

• Expansion and Contraction: During heavy rains, clay soil can expand more than 10% in volume, pushing against foundation walls.
• Poor Drainage: Clay drains poorly, leading to water buildup around your foundation.
• Seasonal Changes: Wexford’s freeze-thaw cycles worsen the effects of clay soil, causing differential settlement over time.
• Weight Concentration: Wet clay soil can weigh more than 100 pounds per cubic foot, creating significant pressure.

• Force water through cracks in your foundation
• Cause basement walls to bow and crack
• Lead to differential settlement as the soil unevenly supports your home
• Accelerate existing foundation problems

Now that you know what to look for, here’s what you can do next:

• Walk around your home and look for visible foundation cracks.
• Check for uneven or sloped floors inside.
• Inspect basement walls for bowing or moisture intrusion.
• Open and close windows and doors to see if they stick.

Foundation Piers

Depending on your foundation type and the extent of the damage, foundation pier varieties—helical, push, and slab—are installed deep beneath your home until reaching more stable soil. These durable piers counteract differential settlement and can potentially lift settling sections of the foundation back to their original positions.

Wall Repair Methods

Hydrostatic pressure foundation damage in Wexford can also be repaired by various techniques. Wall braces and wall anchors are ideal for basement walls with more than two inches of inward movement, and they can help improve the walls’ conditions over time. Carbon fiber straps are best for walls with minimal damage, holding them in their current positions.

Crawl Space Jacks

Your home might benefit from crawl space jacks if your home has a crawl space instead of a basement and the support system is failing due to weakened joists or shifting soil that cannot support structural systems. These adjustable jacks permanently reinforce the affected floor and can help raise it back to level.

Foundation issues caused by clay soil and high precipitation don’t have to be a nightmare. You can prevent frustrations and costly future repairs by recognizing the signs early and taking proactive steps.

These issues can be stressful. We get it; we’re homeowners, too. If you suspect trouble, contact Baker’s Waterproofing for a free inspection. We have more than 50 years of experience with repairing and protecting Wexford, PA, homes with customized solutions. We’re eager to help you, too!