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A Complete Guide to Structural Repair in Houston, TX

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 02:21:37 GMT

Structural repair is one of the most critical aspects of maintaining a safe, stable, and long-lasting home in Houston, TX. It involves the assessment, diagnosis, and correction of issues that affect a building’s structural integrity, including its foundation, load-bearing walls, beams, and overall framework. In a region like Houston, where expansive clay soils, fluctuating moisture levels, and frequent heavy rainfall are common, homes are particularly susceptible to shifting foundations and gradual structural deterioration over time. The underlying soil conditions in Houston play a major role in how structures behave. Clay soils tend to expand when they absorb moisture and contract during dry periods, creating continuous movement beneath a home. This cycle of expansion and contraction can place uneven pressure on the foundation, leading to cracks, misalignment, and other forms of structural stress. Over time, these small movements can accumulate, resulting in visible and measurable damage that may compromise the safety and functionality of the property. Environmental factors such as prolonged heat, poor drainage, plumbing leaks, and extreme weather events can further accelerate structural wear. Excess moisture can weaken the soil supporting the foundation, while insufficient drainage can cause water to pool around the base of the structure. Both conditions contribute to soil instability, which increases the likelihood of foundation shifting and structural imbalance.

Warning Signs of Structural Damage Every Homeowner Should Never Ignore

Structural damage can compromise the safety, comfort, and long-term value of a property if left unaddressed. In many cases, the earliest signs are subtle but become more noticeable over time as underlying issues worsen due to soil movement, moisture intrusion, or natural settling. Acting early and seeking professional structural repair can help prevent minor concerns from turning into major structural failures.

Here are some of the most common warning signs and what they may indicate:

Visible cracks : Cracks appearing in interior or exterior walls, ceilings, or the foundation may signal foundation shifting, settling, or excessive stress on structural components. Horizontal or widening cracks are especially concerning and often point to more serious underlying issues.
Uneven or sloping floors : Floors that feel uneven, sag in certain areas, or slope noticeably can indicate weakened support beams, foundation movement, or soil instability beneath the home. Over time, this can worsen and affect the overall structural balance of the property.
Doors and windows that don’t close properly : Difficulty opening, closing, or locking doors and windows often results from frame misalignment caused by structural shifting. This is a common early sign that the home’s foundation or framing may no longer be level.
Sticking or gaps in walls and frames : Gaps between walls, ceilings, or trim, as well as sticking doors, may indicate that different parts of the structure are moving at different rates. This uneven movement is often linked to foundation settlement or moisture-related expansion and contraction.
Exterior separation or leaning : Visible separation between exterior walls and the foundation, or noticeable leaning in certain sections of the home, can point to significant structural instability that requires immediate attention.

Major Causes Behind Structural Damage Homeowners Should Understand

Structural damage rarely occurs without an underlying cause. In many homes, these issues develop over time due to environmental factors, pest activity, or natural wear and tear. Identifying the root cause is essential to determine the right approach to structural repair and to prevent recurring problems in the future.

Below are some of the most common causes that can compromise a home’s structural integrity:

Foundation settling : As the soil beneath a home shifts or compacts over time, the foundation may sink or move unevenly. This natural process can lead to cracks, sloping floors, and misaligned doors and windows.
Water damage : Excess moisture from heavy rainfall, poor drainage, plumbing leaks, or flooding can weaken structural materials. Water can erode soil, damage wood components, and contribute to mold growth, all of which can compromise stability.
Termite infestation : Termites and other wood-destroying insects feed on structural wood elements such as beams and joists. Over time, this hidden damage can significantly reduce the strength of the home’s framework.
Natural disasters : Events such as hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, and high winds can place extreme stress on a building’s structure. These forces may cause immediate damage or create long-term weaknesses that worsen if not addressed promptly.

The Hidden Risks of Ignoring Structural Damage in Your Home

Ignoring structural issues can lead to serious consequences that go far beyond minor cosmetic problems. What may start as small cracks or uneven surfaces can quickly escalate into major safety hazards and costly repairs. Addressing these concerns early through professional structural repair not only helps protect the integrity of your home but also safeguards your investment and the well-being of those living in it.

Here are some of the key risks associated with delaying action:

Safety hazards : Compromised foundations, weakened beams, or unstable walls can increase the risk of structural failure, potentially leading to accidents or injuries.
Progressive damage : Structural problems tend to worsen over time. Small issues can expand into larger cracks, severe shifting, or even partial collapse if left unattended.
Decreased property value : Homes with visible structural issues are less attractive to buyers and may appraise at a lower value, making it harder to sell or refinance.
Higher repair costs : Delaying repairs often results in more extensive damage, which requires more complex and expensive solutions compared to addressing the issue early.
Pest and moisture problems : Structural weaknesses can allow water intrusion and create entry points for pests, further damaging the home and compounding existing issues.

Don’t wait until minor issues turn into major structural problems. If you’ve noticed warning signs or suspect damage, acting quickly can save you time, money, and stress. Contact us to schedule a professional inspection and get expert guidance tailored to your home’s needs.

Foundation Repair: Methods Every Homeowner Should Know

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 14:47:44 GMT

A solid, stable foundation is the bedrock of a safe and lasting home. When cracks appear in your walls, floors become uneven, or doors and windows stick, these could be early warning signs of foundation issues. For homeowners facing these challenges, understanding the various foundation repair methods is essential to make informed decisions and prevent further damage. In this article, we’ll explore reliable foundation repair options, focusing particularly on concrete foundation repair, and what every homeowner should know to maintain their home’s stability and value.

Popular Concrete Foundation Repair Methods

When foundation problems arise, choosing the right repair method depends on the severity of damage, soil conditions, and the specific symptoms your home exhibits. Concrete foundation repair comes in several forms, each tailored to different problems and repair needs. Below are some popular methods worth knowing:

1. Epoxy Injection

Epoxy injection is one of the most widely used techniques for repairing cracks in concrete foundations. This process involves injecting a specially formulated epoxy resin into the cracks. The resin fills the gap and cures to form a strong bond that restores the structural integrity of the concrete:

Pros:

Cost-effective solution for minor to moderate cracks.
Effectively seals cracks, preventing water leakage.
Restores some of the original strength of the foundation.

Cons:

Not suitable for actively moving or large cracks.
Limited effectiveness for severe settling or shifting.

Epoxy injection works well when cracks are stable and relatively narrow, making it an ideal solution for homeowners noticing early signs of foundation stress.

2. Underpinning with Piers or Piles

For foundation issues involving significant settlement or shifting, underpinning is often the recommended repair technique. This method involves placing piers or piles deep into the ground beneath the foundation to transfer the building’s load onto more stable soil or bedrock:

Pros:

Ideal for severe foundation settling problems.
Provides long-term stability by anchoring the foundation on solid ground.
Suitable for various soil types and moisture conditions.

Cons:

Generally higher cost than crack repair or slab leveling.
May require excavation and cause some disruption to landscaping or structures.
Professional expertise required for proper installation and assessment.

Underpinning is an investment homeowners make to preserve their home’s foundation in cases where surface repairs won’t stop ongoing movement.

3. Slab Jacking (Mudjacking)

Slab jacking is a cost-effective and minimally invasive method used to lift sunken concrete slabs, such as driveways, patios, or basement floors, back to their original level. It involves pumping a grout mixture under the slab to fill voids and raise the surface:

Pros:

Typically less expensive and faster than underpinning.
Minimizes digging or replacement of concrete.
Suitable for leveling uneven surfaces without full foundation excavation.

Cons:

May not be permanent if soil conditions continue to cause settlement.
Less appropriate for repairing walls or complex foundation failures.
Effectiveness depends on soil stability and void conditions.

For homeowners noticing uneven floors or sunken slabs, slab jacking is a practical early solution to restore level footing before more extensive damage occurs.

4. Crack Repair With Polyurethane Foam or Carbon Fiber

In addition to epoxy injection, cracks can be sealed using polyurethane foam injections that are flexible and resist moisture intrusion. Carbon fiber strips can also be applied externally to strengthen areas with extended cracks or bowing walls.

Pros:

Resistant to water and can accommodate some movement.
Carbon fiber adds reinforcement without heavy construction.
Suitable for both cosmetic and some structural repairs.

Cons:

This method alone may not resolve underlying foundation shifts.
Carbon fiber requires professional installation for best results.

These repair methods are often part of a comprehensive plan for foundation stabilization combined with other techniques.

When to Choose Each Foundation Repair Method

Knowing which concrete foundation repair method best suits your home depends on the nature and extent of the problem:

Small, stable cracks: Epoxy injection or polyurethane foam sealing is a practical starting point.
Significant settling or movement: Underpinning with piers or piles offers a permanent foundation-stabilizing solution.
Sunken slabs or concrete surfaces: Slab jacking efficiently levels uneven concrete areas.
Wall reinforcement for bowing or deep cracks: Combining crack repair with carbon fiber strengthening may be necessary.

A professional foundation inspection is crucial to accurately diagnose the problem and recommend the best solution tailored to your unique situation.

Why Timely Foundation Repair Is Essential

Many homeowners delay foundation repair because issues can seem minor at first. However, foundation problems often worsen over time, affecting structural safety and leading to costly repairs later. Early repairs through appropriate repair methods prevent water damage, pest intrusion, mold growth, and declining property value. Investing in timely concrete foundation repair ensures your home remains secure and your family safe.

Final Thoughts: Trust the Experts for Your Foundation Repair Needs

Houston’s soil conditions, which include clay expansiveness and variable moisture levels, make foundation problems common but manageable with the right expertise. Whether you’re facing cracked walls, uneven floors, or shifting foundation issues, Bonilla Foundation Repair offers trusted solutions tailored to the local environment.

Contact Bonilla Foundation Repair Today—Houston, TX’s Foundation Specialists

Don’t wait for small problems to turn into major concerns. Contact Bonilla Foundation Repair for a thorough inspection and expert advice on the best repair methods for your home. Our proven concrete foundation repair techniques can restore your home’s stability and preserve your investment.

Call Bonilla Foundation Repair today or visit our website to schedule a consultation and explore our projects that showcase successful repairs throughout Houston, TX. Take action now and protect your home with the trusted professionals who understand your foundation’s unique needs!

4 Types of Foundation Cracks

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 07:15:25 GMT

Your foundation is extremely important to help support and protect your home. Without a foundation, the house would sink into the ground, and bugs, water, and other hazards would have free access to your home. However, when poorly maintained or installed incorrectly, your foundation can start to fail. The first signs you may have trouble are cracks, so if you'd like to learn more, check out these four types of foundation cracks.

1. Vertical Cracks

Vertical cracks on your foundation are common because they are usually from the concrete shrinking. Most of these vertical cracks are thin. Many are less than 1/8 inch wide, so they cause little to no side effects. However, you should get these fixed as they can worsen or allow minor leakage or pest infestation.

Cracks wider than 1/8 inch definitely need repair, and they may indicate a more serious underlying issue that needs correcting to prevent future damage. Plus, the wider the crack, the higher the risk of flooding and water damage. Even if you have no underlying issue, a professional can better repair the larger crack by using the right materials, which reduces the risk of future damage.

In some cases, the causes of a vertical crack can cause the wall to rotate a little at the top, causing the wall to roll inward. This often results in diagonal cracks instead of vertical ones. A diagonal crack will usually end in the corner of the foundation.

2. Horizontal Cracks

Horizontal cracks are much more problematic than vertical cracks because they are not from normal concrete shrinkage. Instead, they are from severe pressure. This pressure is often from water, but soil movement can also lead to horizontal cracks.

If these cracks become big enough, they can lead to foundation failure or foundation collapse. While you may be able to fix some small vertical cracks yourself, any and all horizontal cracks needing inspection and repair by a professional to determine what has caused the horizontal cracks and what the severity of the damage is.

Repair may have to involve changing the grading or improving drainage to prevent water buildup around the soil, which can cause pressure.

3. Stair-Step Cracks

As the name suggests, stair-step cracks look like a set of stairs. Therefore, it consists of vertical and horizontal cracks. The leading cause for stair-step cracks is that the footing under the foundation is moving. This can cause the foundation to sink, leading to further cracks and an increased risk of flooding.

Even if the stair-step cracks are small, you should not attempt to repair them yourself. This will only mask the problem for a short time because you don't fix the underlying issue. If you try to sell your home or refinance and need a home inspection, repeated attempts to repair the issue may negatively impact the inspection.

A good foundation repair technician will patch up stair-step cracks, but they will first solve the problem causing the cracks. This often requires changes in the grading around the foundation to help redirect water and reduce the amount of pressure on the foundation.

4. Floor Cracks

Like vertical cracks, floor cracks are common and can often be left as-is. However, if that small crack gets bigger, it can allow pests, water, and radon to sneak inside the home. Ideally, the cause of floor cracks is just poor drainage, which is fixable adjusting the grade, adding better drainage, and installing a sump pump.

If the floor is cracked and sinking on one side of the crack, you'll need to level the foundation. This is usually done by adding a special material under the foundation. Similarly, if the foundation is heaving, there may be too much pressure from the soil below. This is often fixable by improving drainage.

Some minor cracks in your foundation are normal wear and tear, but others can indicate a major problem. Regardless of the type of crack, you can always inspect and repair it to prevent future damage and more expensive restorations. For more information, contact us at Bonilla Foundation Repair today.

Keep Your Home's Foundation In Optimal Condition Using These Tips And Tricks

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 19:13:22 GMT

A home's foundation is often overlooked when it comes to property management, yet it plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity of your home overall. A poorly functioning or damaged foundation can lead to the development of cracks in the drywall, broken and uneven tiles, damaged wood flooring, and even crooked windows and doors.

Following are a few things you can do to keep your home's foundation in optimal condition in the years to come.

Commit to Daily Watering

If the soil under your foundation gets too dry or too wet, it can negatively affect your foundation's overall condition. If the soil is dry it will shrink, which will reduce the support it provides for your foundation. And when it gets wet again it will expand which could put unnecessary stress on your foundation.

So it's important to make sure that the foundation gets watered regularly, especially when it's dry outside. You can use a sprinkler, a drip irrigation system, or hand water the foundation with a hose. Commit to watering your foundation once or twice a day for about 30 minutes at a time, more often when it's extra dry outside.

Install Some Downspouts

Just as you can't let the soil under your foundation get to dry, you also need to stop it from getting too wet by making sure that rain water drains away from your home so it can't puddle and soak into the ground. Easily do this by installing downspouts on your gutters.

The downspouts can be attached to each end of your gutters and should be extended several feet away from your home so no water can roll back toward the house as it comes out of the drain. Base rock and mulch or soil can be used to hide and protect the extended downspouts on the ground.

Keep the Foundation Embedded

Another effective way to make sure that your foundation stays in good shape throughout the coming years is to embed the foundation on a regular basis. The process involves applying compacted soil around the foundation to help retain water during dry Texas months.

If the compacted soil around your foundation is less than 2 inches below the top of the slab, it's a good idea to apply layers of soil until it sits about 2 inches below the slab. You need to compact each layer of soil you apply throughout the process.

If you've never embedded a foundation or seen it done before, a professional foundation company can do the job for you at least once. This will allow you to learn how the process works first-hand, and enable you to do the job yourself in the future if needed.

Relocate Trees and Shrubs

If any shrubs or trees are located too close to your home, their roots can cause foundation damage and their tendency to fight for water during the dry season can make the soil under your foundation unstable. Large trees can absorb up to 150 gallons of water from the ground on any given day, which can make it tough to keep the ground and soil under your foundation moist.

Consider installing a root barrier around your home a few feet away from the foundation, and relocate any trees, plants, and shrubs that are inside the barrier to some on the property outside of the barrier. You can always install root barriers around any trees or shrubs that you don't want to relocate and that are still small enough that their roots haven't gotten to close to your house.

Feel free to contact us to learn more about using any of the techniques outlined here. We're also happy to professionally take care of your foundation for you. Just schedule an appointment!

How To Identify A Foundation Problem In Your Residence

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 19:10:35 GMT

Your home is your most important possession. As a homeowner, you want to keep it well maintained during every season of the year. You clean your home, patch and paint interior and exterior walls, repair plumbing, fix electrical problems, winterize your windows, check your smoke detector annually and much more.

Another area that you should monitor to maintain and care for your residence is your home's foundation. Settling and movement in your home's foundation can be subtle and difficult to detect. Here are some indicators that can be symptomatic of a potential problem with your house foundation.

Door Problems

All interior and exterior doors in your home should open and close easily without sticking or jamming. If your doors become misaligned or stick, or if you notice diagonal cracks in the upper corners of your doors, you may have a foundation problem.

If you hear a door in your home popping or making a sound when it is closed or you feel air leaks from underneath or on top of a door your foundation may be settling.

Floor Problems

Floors in your home should be perfectly flat and should not sag or warp. They should fit evenly against your walls and baseboard molding without any visible gaps or warping. If you notice that the floor in your home is creaking when no one is walking on it, your foundation may be moving.

Wall Problems

Look for cracks in your walls that appear and grow over time. You can get wall cracks near doors or windows or at any location where your walls meet your floors or ceilings. Cracks can begin as hairline cracks and grow deeper and more noticeable if you have continued foundation problems.

Window Problems

If you find that the windows in your home are sticking or becoming difficult to open and close, there may be movement in your home foundation. Windows in your home should open and close freely, and you should be able to easily lock your windows with the locking mechanism between the window panes.

Window panes should look and feel solid within their frames. The vertical and horizontal parts of your windows should meet together without gaps or warps.

Plumbing Problems

Foundation problems can cause your underground plumbing pipes to leak. Puddles can become noticeable in the soil around your home. Underground plumbing leaks can also cause visible moisture to appear on your basement walls. If the leaks are not repaired, they can cause your basement walls to crack or warp.

Stair Problems

Interior and exterior stairs are also areas that can indicate movement or settling in your home foundation. Be observant of all stairways to make sure that the stair treads remain flat on the risers and the balusters and handrails are firmly attached and do not move over time.

Check the exterior walls and footing of your home for any signs of cracking or movement of your home's foundation. If you see any cracks, draw a perpendicular line across the crack with a permanent marker. Keep watch on this line over time to see if the crack is widening or moving laterally. If you notice that the line on either side of the crack is moving, you may have a foundation problem.

If you notice any potential problems in your home, call Bonilla Foundation Repair , or come into one of our offices. We will make a free site visit to your home, alert you to any foundation problems that we find and give you a free estimate of repairs. Don't wait to stop a foundation problem that you could damage to your home.

Identify Foundation Problems Causing Sticking Windows and Doors

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 19:05:47 GMT

Your windows and doors are sticking. You might wonder if the problem is from humidity or a problem with the frames. Before you assume that the issue is with the doors and windows themselves, take a look at what is going on with your foundation.

Foundation problems have several different symptoms, including doors and windows that stick. While you can see obvious signs of a crumbling or sinking foundation such as clear cracks or uneven floors, some issues aren't as obvious. Sticking doors and windows tend to fall under the less noticeable category.

One door that sticks or a window that doesn't open every once in a while might not have anything to do with your foundation. But constant sticking is a potential. How can you tell the difference between a minor situation and something that indicates a major structural problem? All homeowners need to know about how sticking doors and windows might be caused by the building's foundation.

Why Do Doors Stick?

Doors stick for many different reasons. Some of the common, and fairly minor, reasons include a loose hinge, worn hinges and hardware, expansion from high humidity, and wood that is warping if your door is made from wood.

Start with the simplest solution possible. If you have a new door that sticks immediately or the door has always stuck, it may be too large for the frame. Sand some of the width or height (depending on where the door is sticking) off of the edge to try to solve the problem.

If the hinges or hardware are the culprits, replace them. But if that still doesn't do the trick, you may be looking at a foundation problem.

Why Do Windows Stick?

Windows often stick for the same reasons that doors do. In some cases humidity is a problem. When wooden frames warp they don't close or open correctly, causing sticking issues. Other times sticking may be a functional issue caused by a lock or other hardware that doesn't work correctly.

Like doors, some windows may stick when foundation problems strike. If your windows don't stop sticking when the humidity drops or after you've fixed opening and closing mechanisms, the sticking may be the foundation's fault.

How Are Foundation Problems Diagnosed?

If you've tried every easy fix and nothing seems to work, you may suspect that a foundation issue is causing the problem. When structures settle and the foundation moves or cracks, window and door frames can bend or become uneven. This unevenness causes the sticking.

Even though the sticking issue is a sign that your foundation is shifting or sinking, the stickiness is unlikely to be the only symptom you'll find. Take a walk around your home, looking for other clues of a foundation problem.
Uneven floors, cracks around windows in the drywall, unexplained gaps between walls and floors, and cracks on your home's exterior on or near the foundation are all indications that something isn't right.

Can Stuck Windows and Doors Be Fixed?

The first step to fixing your window and door stickiness is to determine the problem. If you've ruled out other causes, a foundation repair expert can assess your home and evaluate the issue. Along with inspecting your foundation, the pros can also recommend repairs.

You'll need to make sure that the foundation is properly repaired before worrying about your windows and doors. A persistent problem with your foundation will continue to make your home have the same symptoms.
You can replace window frames and repair the wood around your doors, but if the foundation is still sinking you'll have a repeat issue sooner rather than later. After the foundation is repaired, you can then move on to replacing or fixing your windows and doors.

Do you have a sinking foundation? Contact Bonilla Foundation Repair so we can help you get your doors unstuck while making sure that your home goes back to being level and even.

Tips for Choosing a Foundation Contractor

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 19:02:07 GMT

Noticeable cracks, uneven floors, windows that stick, and doors that just don't close right can all cause headaches for homeowners. Foundation issues aren't exactly DIY jobs and shouldn't be taken lightly. Even though no homeowner wants to have a foundation problem, getting the repair done right the first time around is absolutely essential.

The job requires a professional who has expert knowledge in foundation problems, knows how to make the repairs needed, and is more than just familiar with the area.

Along with having the know-how to get the job done, you also want someone who is a complete professional, provides reasonable and cost-effective solutions, and answers all of the questions that you'll have as you go through the repair process.

How do you know which foundation contractor is right for you and your home? Take a look at some of the top factors to consider.

Attention to Detail

How much time should a contractor take to give you an estimate? There's no easy or standard answer to this question. Each home and each foundation situation is different. Some issues are straightforward while others may take more time to assess.

The key here is to choose a contractor who will spend whatever amount of time is necessary. The use of time should include taking the time to fully inspect your property and answering any questions that you may have.

Reasonable Price

You may be tempted to go with the cheapest price possible, but that's not always the best route to take. Your foundation is the base for your entire home's structure. A low-cost, low-quality repair won't serve you well. Using price as your only guide may save you money right now, but in the long run, you may end up spending more on repairs.

Even though going with the cheapest estimate isn't always the answer, that doesn't mean you need to choose the highest. Do some research to find out what neighbors or other people in your area have paid for similar repairs.

Here is one word of caution when asking for price comparisons: never compare prices from different regional areas. Each state and city have their own economy. The price you pay should be in line with your region's economy and not with what someone across the country pays.

Along with a reasonable price, look for a contractor who doesn't add on hidden fees. If the contractor writes a quote that you like but then starts mentioning a list of other potential fees that you'll probably have to pay, you have cause for concern.

Area Expertise

Every business is new at some point in time. But do you want to rely on someone who just moved into the area or has minimal expertise in foundation work? When choosing the right foundation contractor, look for someone who has years (not months) of experience working in your local region.

A company that has bounced from city to city or moved from state to state may have unresolved issues or problems that don't reflect positively on their business. You want a contractor who has established themselves in the area, knows the local geography, and has plenty of references to back up their claims of expertise.

Warranties and Guarantees

Foundation repairs can be costly. That means you need some sort of guarantee when it comes to the materials and workmanship.

A warranty is absolutely necessary just in case something goes wrong with the repair a week, a month, or even a year down the road. You don't want to get stuck paying the bill for something that isn't your fault.

Along with not having to pay extra for immediate repairs, a warranty shows that the contractor has confidence in their workmanship.

Do you have a foundation problem? Bonilla Foundation Repair can help. Visit our website today to learn more about our services.

Why Are There Cracks Around My Windows and Doors?

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 18:57:27 GMT

Cracks in your walls can be normal, albeit annoying. You want your house to look good, and the last thing you need is a bunch of cracks making your house look like it's ready to keel over.

These cracks have a few possible causes, and the cause is often linked to the location of the cracks or the direction the cracks run in. Sometimes you just have to live with and fix these cracks over time, but other cracks are signs you need professionals to evaluate what's really going on with your house.

Cracks in the Trim

Cracks that are in only the trim around your doors and windows are often from humidity causing material, especially wood, to swell and contract. If that happens enough, the trim can crack near its edge and create a gap. These cracks are merely cosmetic, but you'll want to fill them to keep the house looking good.

If the cracks are inside, regulate your home's humidity, especially in dry winter months and very humid summer months, to slow or stop those gaps from forming. If the cracks are outside, though, you may just have to inspect the trim around your doors and windows periodically and fill cracks as you find them.

Cracks in the Walls

It's a different story if the cracks are in the walls by the doors and windows, and not just in the trim. Those types of cracks indicate some sort of shift in the house itself. The danger with shifting is that you don't know how bad the situation is unless a foundation company checks out the damage.

Sometimes a small crack in a wall is just in the top drywall layer - a cosmetic issue. But that small crack that you see could be hiding a larger, more severe crack underneath. In other words, the crack has been growing for a while, and the drywall was the last part of the wall to split.

Diagonal cracks, especially if they are large and in foundation walls, are a sign that your house needs attention quickly. These can stem from foundation problems that have led to the house shifting.

This shifting is different from house settling. When your house settles, it compresses the soil underneath in tiny increments. Stable foundations technically shouldn't settle because the soil is supposed to be prepared well, but minor settling can still happen. Settling can lead to small cracks around the doors and windows, as well as windows and doors becoming tough to open or close, a.k.a. sticking.

But other soil phenomena can lead to foundation and house shifting, and those can really do some damage. Southeast Texas is not immune to freezes and even snow, and that means the soil can freeze, resulting in frost heave. That's when the ice forming in the soil expands and pushes up the foundation of the house. Your foundation needs to extend below the frost line, and that's something a foundation repair company can handle.

Another soil issue in Southeast Texas is the expansion and contraction of clay soils. True to Gulf Coast Texas weather, the region can have droughts and deluges at any time of the year. Moisture makes clay soils expand greatly; drought makes them dry up and crack. In both cases, the result is a foundation shifting as the soils move.

When you see cracks around your doors and windows that don't appear to be in the trim only, it's time to call the experts at Bonilla Foundation Repair . Let us inspect your home so that we can catch any forming foundation problems before they get worse.

5 Reasons Not to Ignore Foundation Damage

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 18:55:15 GMT

Home repairs are a vital part of home ownership. However, there are few places where repairs are more critical than the foundation. If your home's foundation is damaged, then repairs are essential. Learn about some of the problems that can occur when you ignore foundation problems.

1. Structural Damage

The foundation earns its name for good reason; it is the support base of the entire building. When the integrity of the foundation is weakened, the overall integrity of the structure is also weakened. Doors will no longer close easily, windows may not open, and cracks may appear in walls in a home. In a brick home, the mortar may start to separate from the building's framing.

Damage isn't just unsightly but is also dangerous when ignored. For example, for a home with a chimney, foundation damage could cause the chimney to fall to the ground without warning.

2. Pest Infestations

Aside from eating, insects have one other important goal: to nest. A location out in the open where predators can easily attack is not the ideal situation. However, the dark and moist environment created by the crack in your foundation is.

When insects start to create nests in your foundation, their offspring will not merely stay in the foundation; they will eventually make their way into the living spaces of your home. Even with professional extermination, your efforts won't likely be successful until you have the damage repaired.

Some insects carry harmful bacteria, so providing a way for these insects to get inside your home is never a good idea.

3. Mold and Mildew Growth

When there is a crack in the foundation, moisture from the soil is given the chance to settle inside the foundation. The humidity from the moisture can travel beyond the foundation and lead to mold and mildew growth throughout your home.

Exposure to mold can cause common allergic reactions like a runny nose, watery eyes, and a rash, but exposure can also create more severe symptoms, including shortness of breath.

One factor that makes mold so dangerous is that it's not always visible. For example, it may form on the underside of a floor.

4. Lower Home Value

Homebuyers are not looking to purchase a headache. The typical buyer wants a property that is move-in ready, comfortable, and safe. A home with serious foundation issues is none of those things. If you're planning to sell your home and you have neglected repairs, the value of your home has decreased, and not just by a little.

On average, you can expect your home's value to be slashed by anywhere between 10 and 15 percent. If you don't think that's a lot, for a home valued at $325,000, that's a loss of upwards of $32,500.

5. Higher Repairs

Several home maintenance issues are on a gradual incline, which means they start off small and gradually become more severe with time. A crack may start off as a relatively minor fix, but with time, the crack will spread and deepen, leading to a more involved repair process. Not only is the repair more time-consuming, but it will also become far costlier.

If you have shied away from a repair because you don't have the patience to deal with it now, just know that a year from now, the idea of a repair will only be more stressful.

If you're anything like the average person, pest infestations, structural concerns, and other problems are the last thing you want to experience in your home. Take steps to avoid problems by making foundation repairs and maintenance a top priority.

If you have foundation damage, trust Bonilla Foundation Repair to work quickly to identify and repair the problem for you.

Will Your Insurance Company Cover Your Foundation Repair

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 18:52:27 GMT

Foundation repair can cost thousands of dollars, but it's also unavoidable if you have damage. Foundation damage will lead to significant structural damage over time. It can even lead to a home becoming dangerous. If you can get your insurance company to pay for your repairs, it's a bonus. However, the situation may be more complicated than it seems.

Traditionally Covered Risks

An insurance policy is usually exclusive rather than inclusive. In other words, a policy only covers exactly what is specified in the policy, and nothing else. If your damage has come from something that you're explicitly covered for, such as fire, then the foundation damage will likely be covered. Plumbing issues are also usually covered under an insurance policy.

Everyone's policy is unique, so either read your policy or call your agent before assuming that your foundation damage isn't covered.

General Wear and Tear

Insurance companies are intended to protect you from incidental damage and unexpected risks. It is not designed to cover you from general wear and tear. Over time, foundations are going to shift and crack. Most policies won't cover this.

You can expect to have to fix your foundation after a few decades. These fixes may be small as long as you

Flooding and Earthquake Damage

Many insurance policies don't cover flooding or earthquake damage. Instead, you have to have additional flooding and earthquake coverage. If you have these policies, then foundation damage that is caused by flooding or earthquakes will still be covered.

If you don't have this coverage, none of the flooding or earthquake damage will be covered. If you live in a high risk flood or earthquake zone, you should always maintain this additional insurance. In low risk areas, flooding and earthquakes may be covered by your general insurance policy.

Material and Home Warranties

Is your home less than ten years old? If it is, you may still be covered under the builder's warranty. Home builders warranty the materials and construction of their properties for some time after they are built. If you still have a warranty available, you will be able to get reimbursed for issues that occur within this window of time.

Many home builders are bonded and insured for exactly this type of issue. Their own insurance can cover the cost of a new foundation, but they may initially request that they cover the repairs. This might not be a good idea: after all, the same company that poured the incorrect foundation the first time could pour it incorrectly the second time. You can request to find your own contractor.

Independent Insurance Adjusters

If you feel as though your insurance company has made the wrong ruling, you can consider contacting an independent insurance adjuster. Independent adjusters take a look at your insurance claim and negotiate on your behalf.

As an example, your insurance company could claim that though there was a fire, the foundation issue that you experienced was due to age or due to wear and tear. Your insurance adjuster may be able to help represent you in this dispute, showing documentation that the issue was actually due to the fire, and therefore covered. Your insurance agency doesn't necessarily work on your behalf, so you will want to have someone on your side.

Ultimately, most insurance companies won't cover a foundation repair. However, there are some situations in which they will. Before you make any decisions, you should contact your insurance agent and a foundation professional. Call Bonilla Foundation Repair today to get a consultation and a quote .

5 Essential Components of Foundation Care

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 18:47:19 GMT

1. Basement Waterproofing

For the foundation, exterior waterproofing is especially important. That's because typical foundation walls are made from porous substances such as concrete. Without waterproofing from the outside, water can seep in and then freeze, causing cracks.

If your home doesn't already have exterior waterproofing for the foundation, be sure to arrange it right away.

2. DIY Inspections

DIY inspections are one of the most affordable maintenance tools you have as a homeowner. All you need is some basic knowledge of what the foundation should look like, what it looked like at your last inspection, and what warning signs to look out for.

Some foundation cracks are dangerous signs of incipient collapse, while others are more benign and just a sign of the natural settling a foundation does after it's poured. To help you tell the difference, keep an eye out for cracks that are:

Diagonal or horizontal
Wider than last time you checked
Stair-step in shape
Bulging inward
Uneven (one side further in than the other)

Take a camera and yardstick with you on each inspection so you can visually record all the cracks and their sizes to help you compare at the next inspection. If you see any of the warning signs mentioned above or other irregularities such as a leaning wall, it's time to get a professional opinion. You may need foundation repairs.

3. Drainage and Grading

One of the reasons gutters are so important is because your foundation isn't designed to handle all the stormwater that drains off your roof. If that water enters the soil near the foundation, it can not only cause erosion but also increase the water pressure on the foundation wall. In worst-case scenarios, this can cause cracks and eventual collapse.

Your gutter system neatly collects all that water for you. But if your downspouts simply allow all that water to gush out freely as soon as it hits ground level, you're not making the best use of your gutter system. Ideally, you need to have downspout extensions that carry the water ten feet out before dumping it.

Poor grading can also cause increased water pressure. To prevent this, make sure the soil slopes gently away from your house on all four sides, about one inch per foot. You may need to occasionally regrade this slope due to erosion.

4. Professional Inspections

Although your foundation may not need a professional inspection every year if you're keeping a close eye on it, you should send for a professional as soon as you notice signs of a problem. That could mean finding a bulge in the wall during your inspection, or maybe your home's floors are sloping a little, or you've noticed the windows and doors are sticking.

Although foundation repairs may not be your idea of a good time, foundation damage can progress quickly if neglected, so don't be shy about sending for help.

5. Landscaping Interventions

Trees and bushes look great in your yard, but you may not realize how much damage they can do underground. You may have heard about tree roots posing a danger to septic systems and plumbing, but did you know they can also mess up your foundation? This is especially true of large trees, so if you have large trees near your house, you need to remove them.

Trees naturally extend their roots under the foundation of your house where it's cool and moist. But once the roots have developed a bit, they'll start sucking all the moisture out of the ground, causing it to dry up and shrink. Then the foundation settles more, often unevenly, with the side nearer the tree sinking further into the ground.

These five components will help you develop a solid program of foundation care. If you're in the market for a professional foundation inspection right now, get in touch with Bonilla Foundation Repair today.

5 Home Projects to Complete After a Foundation Repair

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 18:42:02 GMT

A study by a structural engineer stated that an estimated 25 percent of American houses have faulty foundations. A foundation repair makes a home structurally safe, but it cannot undo the damage the shifting may have caused. You may still be left with a few aesthetic concerns following repairs.

Repairs can take place once the home has a solid base again. Most of the projects are simple DIY fixes, but some may be a little more complex. Here are some of the projects homeowners should plan to complete after a foundation repair.

1. Repair Walls and Ceilings

Cracks in walls and ceilings are some of the most common signs of foundation problems. Homeowners may even notice a few new cracks after the repair takes place. The added marks will appear most often in houses where the foundation was also unlevel. Plan to begin any projects a few weeks after the contractor finishes the repairs to give the home time to settle.

Patch any cracks and repaint everything for a fresh new look. Homeowners may want to remove and replace wall and window trim if large gaps appeared or if the trim developed cracks. Use wood putty in the small spaces where the trim pieces used to meet to hide any separation. The gaps become unnoticeable once the putty is dry, sanded, and painted.

2. Adjust Doors and Windows

Doors and windows that were inoperable or were difficult to use may not function perfectly even after the repair. This occurs most often when someone installed the window or door after the structural concerns began. Something that was level in a tilted wall may now be uneven once the house is stable. Remove and rehang the window or door to make it level and operable.

3. Replace Caulking Around Windows

Any movement in the home that was severe enough to make windows difficult to use could also pull and stretch the caulking around the window. To ensure a tight seal around the windows, remove and replace any caulking around windows that were hard to open or close. Wait to complete this project until the windows are operable again.

4. Replace Brick or Tiles

Cracks can appear in floor and shower tiles and in the bricks around fireplaces either before or after the repairs. The severity of the damage could mean a complete replacement is necessary, but most homeowners usually have only a few cracked tiles to replace. Loose or missing grout can also occur even if the tiles are complete.

5. Fix Exterior Drainage Issues

Foundation repairs will typically include the correction of any shifting soil that contributed to the damage, but you may still have drainage issues to address. Water that collects around the foundation of the home will eventually become a problem even after a repair. Address any inadequate drainage quickly to avoid future expenses.

The solution depends on the extent of the problem and the specific drainage issue. The installation of a gutter system and extension of the downspout may be enough to direct the water away from the home. Some homeowners may need to add drainage trenches, regrade the yard so the water runs away from the home, or perform one of many other landscaping solutions.

Homeowners waste time and money when they fix interior problems like cracked walls or sticking doors before a foundation repair. A home is never perfect unless the foundation is solid. At Bonilla Foundation Repair , we can make the repairs necessary to stabilize the home so you can have the beautiful, safe home you want. Contact us today for an inspection and estimate.

Do Your Windows Indicate You Have Foundation Problems?

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 18:36:01 GMT

What's more annoying than a window that won't open and close? That's easy - a window that won't open and close because your home's foundation is failing. Unfortunately, sticking or damaged window frames are often a sign of problems that have developed in the house's foundation. That's not always the case, though, so how do you tell the difference?

Here are some things to check if you're wondering whether your windows are just being obnoxious or if their problems have a more sinister cause.

Check That Windows Aren't Painted Shut

If you've just moved into an older house, foundation problems may be common, but painted-shut windows are all too common as well. Check around the perimeter of the window sash to see if the junction between two moving parts has been painted over. If so, you may be able to remedy the problem by sliding a putty knife along the junction, then prying the window open.

Check for Moisture and Humidity Problems

Another reason windows may stick is moisture and humidity problems. This is especially relevant if you have wooden window frames because those swell up most in wet weather. If you do notice that the windows stick more in wet weather, this could be the only issue. Or you could have a moisture problem such as a slab leak.

Other moisture problems that can cause a window to stick include roof leaks, siding leaks, or just too much humidity inside your home (which could also be due to inadequate basement waterproofing). Roof or siding leaks can also cause mold, rot, blistering paint, and other signs of excess moisture around your window.

Check for Cracks Around the Windows and Doors

Sticking windows and doors can mean, in some cases, that the window frames and door frames have gone ever so slightly cockeyed. The misalignment may not be pronounced enough to notice with the naked eye but enough that the well-squared windows and doors no longer fit quite right. Typically, this is because the foundation of the house is not quite flat anymore.

So if you have just one sticking window, the problem is likely not a sign of foundation issues. But if you have multiple windows and doors sticking, you should start paying attention. Look for gaps or hairline cracks around the windows and doors and elsewhere on the walls (typically up near the ceiling). These signs could mean windows and doors are signaling foundation problems.

Check Your Foundation

Obvious foundation issues, such as a large tree growing right next to your house or large cracks opening up in the foundation wall, may be obvious to even an inexperienced eye. If you see these types of problems, call for a foundation repair at once.

If you suspect there could be a foundation problem that's not evident to the eye, call for an inspection. Some foundation problems, such as gradual settling, may cause unevenness and other issues without any large dramatic signs. A slab leak, for example, can destabilize your foundation while being invisible because the leak is buried underneath your concrete slab.

In the best-case scenario, your foundation inspection will prove you don't have any foundation problems. In this case, maybe your windows just need to be lubricated or, at worst, replaced.

Whether you've got a slab leak, need a complete foundation restoration, or simply require basement waterproofing to prevent foundation problems in future, Bonilla Foundation Repair is here for you. Simply call us today if you'd like to obtain a free estimate or schedule a free inspection of your foundation to determine whether your window problems indication you have foundation issues.

Signs That Termites May Be Attacking Your Foundation Walls

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 18:31:18 GMT

A good home foundation keeps your house stable and prevents severe damage that could otherwise affect its structure. Unfortunately, a vast array of termite species may invade your home's foundation and cause disruptive damage to the support wood. The following symptoms will help you gauge if and when termites have invaded your home's foundation and caused damage to its structure.

Mud Tunnels Outside Your Home

Termites invade a home's foundation by tunneling into the mud to find weak spots where they can enter. The small size of a termite means that they can fit into tiny cracks in your home's exterior. Pay attention to the outside of your home to locate these mud tunnels and trace them to your house.

If you find mud tunnels around your home, you may want to take steps to ensure that termites can't escape your home. These steps include exclusion techniques - which requires you to seal up any cracks where termites can invade - and improving the slope around the base of your home to keep new termites out.

Try to trap the termites in this way to make it impossible for them to escape when you call an exterminator. Otherwise, many of the termites may escape when they apply the pesticide and could invade your home to damage your foundation again after the chemical spray has dissipated and disappeared.

Dying Plants in Your Home

Termites don't just eat wood when they invade a home but any item that has high levels of fibers. For example, termites may attack your home's plants, particularly the leaves, to get nutrients. In desperate situations, termites may also attack books and other paper items in your home.

If you spot this type of damage, termites have probably already spread heavily through your home. And since many species of termites invade homes through the basement or near the foundation, they have likely made a nest near your foundation wood and are chewing away at it.

Wood Shavings Near Your Foundation

If you notice signs of termites in or around your home, check out your foundation. Look for holes in the wood that go beyond minor weathering damage. Wood shavings on the floor should indicate where termites have invaded your timber or where they may have made a home in the wood.

While looking for wood shavings, you should also look for termite fecal matter, wings, shed skins, and anything else that may pinpoint their location. Most termite species will make nests in hard-to-find areas, so you're going to have to use these signs to find the possible location of their nest near your foundation.

Shifting Doors, Walls, and Windows

Lastly, you need to check your home for any symptoms of foundation damage. Typically, even a small termite invasion will cause some problems in your home. For example, check to see how well your doors close. If any of your doors struggle to shut correctly or stay closed, foundation damage may have caused your home to shift.

Foundation shifts typically cause other types of damage to your home, as well, such as cracked walls and windows. Pay attention to where these cracks occur to gauge the depth of the foundation damage. For example, damage on the first floor may indicate minor shifting but problems on the second or even third floors of a home indicate more problematic shifts in your home's foundation.

Help is Available

If you are worried about termite damage to your foundation and aren't sure where to turn, please don't hesitate to contact us at Bonilla Foundation Repair to get the help that you need. Our professionals will inspect your foundation and repair any damage that termites may have caused.

6 Things to Discuss With Potential Foundation Repair Companies

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 18:26:08 GMT

Perhaps you've noticed misaligned doors and windows or floors that are uneven in your house. Maybe you've even seen cracked bricks or flooring. These are warning signs that you have a damaged foundation that needs repairing. Time to start calling foundation repair companies. When you're interviewing potential candidates, keep in mind the following topics.

1. Experience with Foundation Repair

Construction companies may present themselves as Jacks of all trades, listing foundation repair among a dozen other kinds of jobs they take on. However, just because they list foundation repair doesn't mean they're experts in the field.

You'll want to discuss a potential company's actual experience in repairing foundations. Many experts suggest you want a company with at least 20 years of experience specifically in that area. Ideally, you should look for companies that advertise themselves only for foundation repair.

2. Licensure and Insurance

In that vein, you want to ensure a potential foundation repair company is licensed in that area. Don't be afraid to ask to see a license or certification. In some cases, all employees should be certified in that area before they're allowed on a crew. Along the same lines, ask about what permits they'll need to pull.

Likewise, you'll want to see proof of insurance as well. Any reputable company will have insurance to cover workers' compensation. They should also have a general business liability policy as well as a commercial vehicle policy.

3. References

Going back to the experience topic, the hope is that the company has been doing business in your area for some years. That way, you have the potential to talk to past clients about their experiences. Every company pitching for a job is going to put its best foot forward - you want to find out if they keep up that level of professionalism.

Many companies have lists of satisfied customers. You could ask for a copy of the list to make phone calls. You can also check reviews of the company online - just remember people often only leave reviews when they're dissatisfied. Finally, a quick search of the Better Business Bureau should give you a clear idea of how the company does business.

4. Contractors Assigned to the Job

When you interview candidates for the foundation repair job, you'll often be talking to an owner or a foreman. Who actually shows up to the job site is a different matter. When talking to potential repair companies, find out how many contractors they'll be sending out, and whether they're certified.

Likewise, ask if the company sends out employees or temporary labor. If it's the latter, you don't necessarily need to disqualify that company. Instead, follow up with more questioning, such as whether they hire the same temporary workers and how much supervision the crew will be under.

5. Approach to Foundation Repair

Foundation repair specialists have different methods at their disposal for repairing a foundation. The two most common methods are hydraulic jacking and slabjacking. Hydraulic jacking involves driving steel posts through the unstable soil and using the jacks to stabilize the foundation. Slabjacking involves pumping grout under the slab to boost it back into place.

The correct method for repairing your foundation depends on the cause of the distress. When talking with your local repair company, discuss the cause of your foundation issues and what their preferred repair approach is.

6. Cost

Cost shouldn't be the most important factor in choosing a foundation repair company because getting the job done correctly is more important. However, cost is still a factor.

When talking to the company, ask for an outline of all costs involved in the repair. Don't be afraid to ask for an itemized bid. Take your time looking it over. If a cost seems a little high, ask the company about it. Watch for their reaction as they answer your question.

Have a frank conversation with potential repair companies before hiring them to complete your foundation repair. Start with the experts at Bonilla Foundation Repair .

Foundation Issues in Selling Your Home

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 18:21:36 GMT

Homeowners put their houses on the market for a lot of reasons, including moving into a bigger home or starting a new life in a different city. Once the house is on the market, homeowners usually want it to sell as quickly as possible so they can move on to the next chapter of their lives.

A foundation issue will be a major disrupter in that process. Unfortunately, foundation problems are a fact of life for many homeowners. So, if you want to sell your house anytime soon, look into the state of its foundation.

Home Inspection and Your Foundation

While a few potential homebuyers are willing to purchase a house without an official inspection, the growing trend is to hire a house inspector. Once the sale goes through, any issues with the house becomes the buyer's issues. So, to protect their financial interests, homebuyers often make a professional home inspection a contingency of the sale.

Most states don't carry licensing for home inspectors. However, professional inspectors have a checklist of items they look for. Pertinent to the foundation, they'll look for the type the house has, and they'll inspect closely for any issues. The inspectors will also look at problems, such as plumbing leaks, that can cause foundation issues in the future.

Because of the lack of licensing, home inspectors can't give a detailed analysis of foundation issues. They'll only be able to report on what they saw and make recommendations for further inspections by licensed foundation experts.

Foundation Issues and Mortgage Companies

Mortgage companies don't just take your word for how much your house is worth. When buyers apply for a mortgage, the companies often send out their own appraisers. Said appraisal will consider many factors, including lot size and recent property sales in the area. However, a major area of interest for mortgage companies is the house's state of repair.

The appraiser will look for issues related to deferred maintenance or repair items that the current homeowner has put off. While roof repairs are a major area of interest, these appraisers will also look for signs of foundation issues, such as the following:

Uneven flooring
Sticking windows and doors
Jagged cracks in the walls
Visible cracks in the foundation

Mortgage companies require that houses meet their standards for structural soundness. Foundation issues affect the house's marketability, which jeopardizes the lender's investment.

So, mortgage companies may deny a mortgage loan if the house shows signs of foundation issues. Or, they may require that the potential homebuyer provide enough of a down payment to cover the cost of foundation repair.

Foundation Issue Repairs Before Selling

Potential homebuyers may be leery about putting a bid on a house with foundation issues because of the perceived cost to repair them. Well, as the current homeowner, you should know it might not cost as much as you envision. While a home with substantial foundation damage could cost tens of thousands of dollars, simple crack repairs cost as little as a few hundred.

If you live happily in your home, you probably don't have substantial foundation damage. Those kinds of issues arise more with foreclosure homes or other houses that have been left vacant for any amount of time. Regardless of the severity of your foundation issue, you should repair it because the issue could otherwise kill the sale of your house.

So, before you put your house on the market, take a quick inventory of its state of repair. Look for the above-mentioned issues that a mortgage company will watch out for. If you think you have a foundation issue, call in the foundation repair experts to get an inspection and bid, if necessary.

The inspection only takes a couple hours, so it's not a huge investment of time - but it can save you time and money in the long run.

Diagnose and repair any foundation issues before putting your house on the market. Call Bonilla Foundation Repair for a reliable and honest assessment of your home's foundation.

Top 4 Texas Foundation Issues

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 20:56:23 GMT

Texas is prone to a variety of climate challenges, but one surprising issue pops up more in the Lone Star State than most of the country. Texan homeowners often find that their homes suffer problems with the foundation, which can cause notable concerns for the rest of the house. Learn more about the foundation issues most likely to affect your Texas homestead and how you can get help.

1. Weather Impacts

Texas has an unpredictable weather cycle, but the climate is prone to extremes. You might have hot or cool conditions crop up unexpectedly, and the air could be dry or humid without any correlation to previous experiences. As uncomfortable as weather extremes might be for the people living there, building foundations can suffer just as much.

The torrential rains can cause floods that might erode your foundation, which means you'll have to reinforce barriers between the house's supports and the outside elements. Droughts cause problems of their own, like forcing tree roots in unusual directions to seek out water. These searching root systems can disrupt building foundations, and they're much harder to guard against.

2. Expansive Clay Soil

The soil on which your home rests has a considerable effect on the stability of your foundation. Because Texas has a well-earned reputation for expansive clay soil - perfect for farming, not so perfect for building on - your foundation will feel the effects of the changing seasons as the soil expands with moisture and contracts with dry heat.

You can't do much to change the composition of the dirt around your house. All you can do is pay attention to the weather and look out for soil heaving and unsupported pockets under your foundation, which will cause visible cracks and cause your home to grow unstable at a faster rate than anyone would prefer.

3. Drainage Systems

If you thought the only danger of water damage came from the environment, think again. The drainage system for your home's plumbing can have catastrophic consequences if it doesn't work well with the foundation style. Even if the contractors put both together well originally, the temperamental climate can cause the drainage system to stop cooperating and cause foundation issues.

Slab foundations, which are common in Texas, usually have water pipes embedded in the concrete, which puts both systems in danger. If the pipes freeze, they'll expand and possibly crack the foundation, while if the concrete has to settle or bends in another way, it'll damage the water system for the whole house.

Pier and beam foundations, the other most common style in Texas, give you crawl-space access to the pipes and electric systems. However, you still run risks of foundation damage if you fail to ventilate that space correctly. Anything from mold and rot to small animals can sneak in if you don't insulate and guard the area well, all of which will cause problems from the ground up.

4. Population Constrictions

Texas has a lot of land with low amounts of expanding clay in the soil, which would help most foundations last a little longer. The problem is, the cities with high concentrations of homes happen to rest upon the worst ground for building. If you live in a Texan city, then you've joined the myriads of people who will have more foundation trouble than the rest of the country.

Fortunately, a lot of foundation issues mean that foundation repair companies get to be very good at what they do. If you need your home's base fixed, look no further than Bonilla Foundation Repair , a company dedicated to serving its customers with reliable repairs. Get in touch today to see how Bonilla can make your home's base safe once again.

Foundations and Clay Soil

Fri, 02 Oct 2020 21:22:16 GMT

If your home's foundation sits on clay soil, you may face some unique complications that can negatively impact your foundation. Clay soil has two problems: it absorbs water slowly, and it expands and contracts. If you would like to know more about clay soil to better protect your foundation, keep reading.

Clay Soil Absorbs Water Slowly

There are many types of soil, including sand, chalk, silt, and clay. However, clay is a heavy soil, and it does a terrible job of absorbing water. It absorbs water slowly, and it doesn't absorb much water. For this reason, when it rains, a lot of water remains standing on lawns with clay soil. If this water builds up near your foundation, it can cause serious problems.

In general, your roof's overhangs help protect the ground around the foundation from rain water, but that isn't always the case, especially if it rains hard or the rain is slanted. If you frequently neglect your gutters, allowing them to spill over, you may notice an indent in the ground below them. This indent can help direct and store water around the foundation.

Water can also build up around the foundation if your yard slopes toward the house at any location. Gravity will naturally allow the water to collect at the base of your home.

One way to fix drainage issues is with soil grading: a process that adds soil near the foundation to create a slope away from the foundation. In some cases, additional downspouts, gutters and in-ground drains may be required to prevent standing water. It may also be beneficial to add more plants to your landscape, especially plants that absorb water well.

If you do not fix the problem, the long-term exposure to water can damage your foundation. The moisture can rot wooden components. The rotting wood is not only weak, but it can attract pests. Too much water can erode the soil under the foundation, increasing the risks of cracks.

Clay Soil Expands and Contracts

While clay soil may not absorb water well, it does hold water. This feature, unfortunately, can also damage your foundation because clay soil expands when it's wet and contracts as it dries. This process, however, puts extra stress on your home's foundation, leading to more wear and tear than normal.

One issue that arises is cracking. If the soil doesn't expand and contract evenly, your foundation becomes uneven, increasing the chance of cracking from the weight of your home. Most foundations move a little, but if you've noticed cracks in the foundation or walls (exterior and interior), the foundation may be moving too much.

If it rains too much, and the soil absorbs massive amounts of water, it can cause a foundation upheaval. In the hotter months, when there is no rain, the soil may contract so much your foundation starts to sink, which also increases the chance of cracks.

When examining your foundation for cracks, make note of any cracks over 15mm, as they may indicate an issue. Cracks with a 45-degree angle are also concerning as they indicate foundation movement. Other signs include uneven doors, French doors that don't meet in the middle, and doors that stick or drag.

Foundation problems are not something to ignore. They can lead to major complications for other parts of your home. If you've noticed any signs of foundation damage, if your yard has poor drainage, or if you are just concerned, you can have your foundation examined.

Catching problems early can save you money, time and headaches. To learn more about foundation repair and damage, or if you would like to get a free estimate , contact us at Bonilla Foundation Repair today.

Summertime Foundation Concerns and Care

Sun, 26 Jul 2020 21:27:49 GMT

You likely know the heat of a Texas summer can be hard on people, pets, and plants. Did you know summer is also hard on your home's foundation? Understand summertime foundation stresses, and learn how to properly care for your foundation in summer weather.

Summertime Foundation Concerns

Your foundation relies on the surrounding soil for support. That soil shifts and moves due to expansion and contraction from varying moisture levels. Your foundation can suffer damage from this movement.

Several aspects of summer weather are tough on your foundation, especially in Texas. The climate combination of excessive temperature, drought, and heavy rain each play a role in foundation damage.

Excessive Heat

Texas summer days can average well over 90 degrees. With temperatures at this extreme, soil shrinks and contracts away from your footings. This can cause footings to buckle and walls and slabs to crack.

High temperatures do not affect your foundation evenly. Sun and wind are more pronounced on southern-facing walls and heat and dry this area more. Southeast and southwest corners often have the most damage, as corners of homes are heaviest and most likely to settle first. This uneven heating and settling can cause twisting and buckling.

Prolonged Drought

In combination with heat, drought can further damage your foundation. Moisture in the soil causes the ground to swell. When the soil dries out, it shrinks. The clay soils common in Texas are especially prone to this shrinkage.

The trees near your foundation can further dry out your soil, as they take large quantities of water from the surrounding soil daily.

Heavy Rain

As much as heat and drought cause contraction issues with your soil, you do not want too much water, either. Heavy rainfall from summer storms and hurricanes can saturate your soil. This saturated soil puts too much pressure on basement walls and foundations.

Just like heat and drought shrinkage, the expansion of soil damages your foundation. Flooding causes shifts in the soil that can unsettle the foundation, causing cracks by shifting the ground under and around your footings.

Summertime Foundation Care

Counteract the summertime combination of heat, drought, and heavy rain with proper foundation care. Protect yourself from summer foundation damage by following these important action steps.

Control Water Around Your Foundation

One tip to help ease the contraction of soil during summer heat and drought is to water the soil around your foundation. Lay a soaker hose along the south wall, wrapping to the east and west walls. Run this for several minutes at night to help keep consistent soil moisture.

You can landscape next to your foundation with groundcover, flowers, and small shrubs. Be careful not to have trees or large plants with too much root structure that could damage your foundation and use too much of the water.

To prevent excess water around your foundation, make sure to install gutters and drains and keep them clean and functional. Do not allow water to pool around your foundation, either.

Inspect Your Home for Damage

Often, controlling the water can help prevent damage. Sometimes, it is impractical or impossible to water your soil enough to protect against contraction or to ward off extreme flooding. Always inspect your home each summer for signs of foundation issues.

Usually, you will notice signs of this underground movement in your walls, doorways, and windows. Walls can develop cracks, especially in the drywall seams. Windows can stick and not open smoothly. Your doors might not close properly. Sometimes, grout might crumble and tile buckle and pop off.

Repair Damaged Foundations Right Away

If you have inspected your foundation and noticed any damage, don't put off professional inspection and help. Small cracks today can quickly expand under further summer stress. These cracks can allow water into your home, creating further damage.

You can repair small cracks with relative ease, but any sign of major foundation shifting may take more extensive repair. Hire a professional right away to protect your home.

Inspect your home this summer for any cracking, shifting, or other problem signs. For help with any foundation issues, contact us at Bonilla Foundation Repair .

4 Common Causes of Foundation Damage

Tue, 26 May 2020 21:40:49 GMT

Foundation damage is one of the greatest potential threats to the structural integrity of your home. Like many homeowners, you may question what you can do to keep your foundation in good condition. Understanding the common causes of foundation damage will let you keep an eye out for these conditions around your home and help you avoid expensive foundation repairs.

1. Prolonged Precipitation or Drought

Changes in the moisture content of the soil around your home can have a major impact on the health of your foundation. When soil becomes saturated with rainwater, it swells and pushes inward on your foundation walls. This phenomenon is known as hydrostatic pressure, and it can cause foundation walls to crack.

Droughts can be just as hard on your foundation as prolonged precipitation. In dry weather, moisture in the soil evaporates and the soil contracts. This can create spaces around and under your foundation that cause it to shift in ways it was not designed for, potentially cracking the foundation walls. Watering your soil during dry periods is a good way to counteract this problem.

2. Gutter and Downspout Problems

Your gutters and downspouts play an essential role in the health of your foundation. Properly installed and maintained gutters will route rainwater away from your foundation to prevent saturation that could cause damage through hydrostatic pressure.

If debris has clogged your gutters, water will overflow and run down the side of your home to reach the soil directly next to your foundation. Routine gutter cleaning is essential to prevent this type of overflow. You also need to make sure your downspouts extend far enough from your home, and deposit water onto a sloped surface so that it doesn't run back to your foundation.

3. Tree Roots

The force with which growing tree roots can push through soil, plumbing, and even your foundation should not be underestimated. Tree roots will seek out moisture in the smallest cracks in your basement walls and widen them over time. Large trees can even have roots that reach under your foundation and cause it to shift through upward pressure.

To avoid an unnecessary project that can be highly disruptive to your lawn, you should attempt to verify that roots are attacking your foundation before you have a tree removed. Digging small holes a foot or two deep around your foundation near any trees should give you an idea of whether the roots extend further toward your foundation. For smaller trees, you may even be able to cut the offending root without removing the tree.

4. Poor Construction

Unfortunately, some cases of foundation damage are already in the works as soon as a home is built. Foundation construction is a precise science, and any mistakes can cascade into bigger problems down the road. For example, if the foundation contractor doesn't properly compact the soil before laying the foundation, shifting that leads to foundation damage is much more likely.

Other examples of possible foundation construction issues include building on an improper grade or use of a low-quality slab that is prone to deteriorate.

Luckily, many foundation contractors offer a warranty on their work, so check back with your contractor if you suspect foundation issues in your new home.

Several complex factors play into the health of a home's foundation, so tracking down the cause of damage isn't always easy. If you keep an eye out for the conditions that most commonly lead to foundation damage, your home and your wallet will thank you for it. Keep these tips in mind and contact us at Bonilla Foundation Repair for all of your foundation service needs!

Is Your House Sinking?

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 22:17:19 GMT

Your house needs a foundation on which to rest. This prevents it from sinking into the soil or being exposed to massive erosion. Ideally, when prepared and poured correctly, your foundation remains strong and healthy. However, there are many natural factors that can lead to foundation complications, including sinking. If you believe your home is sinking, learn more about what you can do to prevent and fix the problem.

What Causes a Sinking Foundation?

In some cases, a sinking foundation is caused by the type of soil. Expansive clay soil, in particular, causes major problems because it absorbs so much water at once, which swells the ground. This puts pressure on the foundation, which could possibly cause it to sink or crack. Poorly compacted filler material can further exacerbate the problem.

The other leading cause of a sinking foundation is poor drainage. If your property slopes toward your house, it allows water to pool around the foundation, which softens the soil. If there isn't enough ground coverage or drainage pipes, this increases erosion, which removes soil from directly around or underneath the foundation.

What Are the Signs of A Sinking Foundation?

One of the most obvious signs that there is something wrong with your foundation is when it starts to crack. Cracks often appear within a year after the foundation has been laid. This is normal because the foundation is adjusting to the ground. However, if these cracks worsen, or new cracks appear years later, the foundation may be sinking.

Cracks can also appear on your siding and walls as the house becomes uneven. You'll notice these around doors and windows inside and outside the home.

In addition, the windows and doors may stick when you try to open or close them because the changes in the foundation have altered how they fit. When you check the windows and doors, make sure to pay attention to the floor. The more uneven the floor, the more likely the house is sinking on one side.

How Can You Prevent A Sinking Foundation?

The best way to prevent a sinking foundation is to ensure there isn't too much water around the foundation. This means you should improve the slope of your yard, so that water drains away from the house. You may also want to install new drains. You can also improve drainage by planting ground coverage, which will prevent erosion, or adding mulch, which slows water.

The other part of preventing a sinking foundation is to prevent cracks. If you do see cracks, repair them as soon as possible. In addition, prevent new cracks from appearing by keeping plants, especially those with thick, long roots, away from the house.

Can a Sinking Foundation Be Repaired?

If your foundation is sinking, there are ways a qualified technician can help. Repair often includes slabjacking or hydraulic jacking. Slabjacking is a process that involves injecting grout under the foundation. This grout pushes the foundation back up to its level position. This method is often reserved for minor foundation complications.

In more serious cases, hydraulic jacking is the better choice. This involves inserting steel posts through the soil to stabilize the soil. A hydraulic jack is then used to raise the foundation back to its proper position.

Luckily, if your foundation is sinking, there are ways it can be repaired. However, your best plan of action is to avoid the problem to begin with. Improve drainage and repair any damage to the foundation as it appears. With good care, you can keep your foundation solid and strong enough to support your home.

If you would like to know more about foundation repair, or if you need to schedule a consultation or a free estimate, contact usat Bonilla Foundation Repair today.

4 Ways Winter Weather Can Attack Your Foundation

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 22:38:29 GMT

Your home's foundation, although it's likely made of concrete or concrete blocks, isn't totally invulnerable. You may be surprised to learn that it's not impermeable either. Here are four ways that winter weather can attack your home's foundation.

1. Erosion

Rain, sleet, and melting snow can cause erosion throughout your yard, which can be an issue for your foundation as well. The grade in your yard should slope away from your foundation to direct water away, and erosion can alter this slope. Also, any water that comes down from your eaves can erode the soil and expose the base of your foundation wall.

Erosion is especially likely if your gutters are twisted or misplaced so they don't catch all the water as it cascades off the roof. If the gutters overflow because they're not sloped enough or large enough to carry away the amount of rain your roof collects, or if you have any sections of gutter that are missing altogether, you can expect to have problems as well.

You can also get erosion around your foundation wall if the downspout dumps water near the house as soon as it reaches the ground. Instead of dumping water at the base of your walls, downspouts should be carrying it 5-10 feet out into the yard. If yours don't carry water far enough away, you may need to add downspout extensions.

2. Water Intrusion

Water can actually push through your concrete basement walls. This is because concrete is porous, meaning that it can absorb water. Water from outside can push into the concrete and then through it, and eventually make its way all the way into your basement.

A wet basement can lead to rot and mold on any wood supports in the basement, and mold and damp can even move up through your walls and spread throughout your home. Basement waterproofing measures and sump pumps can help you reduce moisture in the basement and avoid these issues with mold and damp.

3. Hydrostatic Pressure

Hydrostatic pressure is what drives water through your porous concrete wall. Hydrostatic pressure is generated by the weight of water in the soil surrounding your basement, and it pushes inward on the walls. This pressure can not only push water through concrete, but can shift or damage the wall itself.

In fact, hydrostatic pressure often causes foundation wall cracks and bowing. If you see a crack in your wall that's diagonal, stair-step, or horizontal, or if the wall seems to be sagging inward slightly, this could be why.

You should periodically check for any new cracks in your basement or any that have widened recently. Other problematic signs to look for are any cracks that seem to be bulging (due to a bowed foundation wall) or that have one side of the crack pushed in slightly.

4. Freeze-Thaw Cycles

Freeze-thaw cycles can damage concrete and asphalt driveways, and they can also damage your foundation wall. This damage occurs when water is absorbed into the outside of the porous concrete foundation wall, then freezes and expands. The expansion places a lot of pressure on the concrete, sometimes forcing it to crack.

The next cycle may even compound this damage. The water can seep into the small cracks and freeze, pushing the sides apart so that cracks widen with each freeze-thaw cycle.

As you can see, winter can be a dangerous time for your home's foundation. Wet weather and cold weather can both cause damage to your foundation, especially when combined. Fortunately, a good foundation contractor can help you to both repair any current foundation damage and can use waterproofing to reduce chances of future damage.

For more information about the foundation waterproofing and repair services we offer, get in touch with Bonilla Foundation Repair today. We offer premier foundation services throughout Houston and the nearby areas.

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