Erosion and Water Pooling in Your Home Foundation

For a long time, homes on hilltops have been a symbol of affluence and exclusivity; after all, the phrase “million-dollar view” comes from this phenomenon, and all the posh neighborhoods in the United States include the word “hills” in their names.

Views of lush vineyards, glistening water, or bright city lights are not enough to protect them from erosion and the other problems they face (such as slope stabilization).

Foundation settlement and heave, both of which are brought on by expansive soil, take up a sizable portion of our writings.

These phenomena are not the focus of this article, which is instead directed at problems unique to homes on hillsides.

Erosion
Most people’s first thought about the dangers of living on a hillside is that their houses will be destroyed by erosion. What rises must inevitably fall. It’s also true that what’s on top now will eventually fall (no matter how slowly).

Erosion is like the hands of time using geological sandpaper to chisel away at mountain peaks and hilltops.

Rain is the primary cause of erosion because it penetrates the soil and carries loose dirt, rocks, and other debris downhill. Plants anchor their roots and keep the ground stable during storms.

Large sections of a hillside can be washed away and cause mudslides if there is little or no vegetation. The erosion risk for houses on bare hillsides is higher.

However, the most significant issue with dwellings constructed into or on hills is inadequate or nonexistent drainage systems.

A Side of Fun with Brian – Water is widely regarded as the most powerful element by geologists. And if given enough time, it can even erode rock. The Grand Canyon, for instance, was formed by the Colorado River.

Totally Inadequate or Nonexistent Drainage
The force of water cannot be overstated. But, you might object, I don’t get much rain where I live in Arizona or Southern California. If it does rain, this could make you more vulnerable to erosion.

It’s likely that you have a poor drainage system or none at all, and that there is less vegetation in your state compared to the neighboring wet states.

There is nothing to hold the soil in place, absorb excess water, or redirect the water flow away from your house.

Here are some warnings that your property needs a drainage upgrade:
Erosion of soil
A yard that is soaked and sponge-like
Weakened footing/cracked foundation
Slow or non-existent evaporation from puddles.
Your home being flooded
Stagnant water on your outdoor flooring
Whenever it rains, soil and silt are washed onto the streets and sidewalks.
If your property exhibits any of the above signs, whether you live on a slope or not, you should have a drainage system installed by a professional.

When planning your house’s base, you must think about many factors. Thankfully, you can rely on the assistance of the RLM Retrofit Foundation. Inquire about our Foundation Inspection Brea and repair services right away by calling.

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