As the number one cause of early deterioration of a properties structure, it is much more effective to try and prevent subsidence before it manages to take control. After all, it is relatively easy to spot the signs of its development when it is severe, however, the costs associated with a fixture can be unaffordable for many. Luckily, understanding how subsidence is caused can help property owners stop it in its tracks sooner rather than later. Read on to find out more…
Moisture loss can cause soil shrinkage and movement
In most cases, subsidence occurs as a result of soil movement and displacement which affects the way that the foundations of a property lay in the ground. In fact, soil movement can actually drag the walls of a building apart and this often leads to the signature diagonal split that appears in the brickwork of properties affected by subsidence. This is often the result of moisture loss in the soil causing it to shrink in size and move and if foundations are built upon this weak soil then they are at continuous risk of subsidence.
Trees and other plants can cause foundation damage
Many people are unaware how strong tree roots and plants can actually be when it comes to the foundations of a property. In fact, the number of subsidence related incidents that involve plants are actually increasing each year. The affliction is often caused when a structure is built on top of or within a close proximity to nature itself and plants like Japanese Knotweed can actually break through foundations and crumble them whilst tree roots suck up excess moisture and cause soil shrinkage to occur. As a result, it is vital that foundations are installed in a suitable area as far away from plants and trees as possible.
A building with poor foundations will eventually subside
Perhaps the most unusual cause of subsidence is the quality of a structures existing foundations. After all, the weight of an entire building has to be able to sit on top of them and if they are installed incorrectly or do not offer the necessary support then they will begin to buckle under the sheer weight of the structure. In most cases, this presents itself as subsidence.
Here at Rhino Piling, we believe that subsidence is an avoidable affliction that many property owners shouldn’t have to deal with. After all, poor-quality foundations are a common cause of its development. Luckily, the installation of piles can help rectify subsidence before it manages to wreak serious damage to the structure of a property and can even be used as a subsidence prevention measure. To find out more information, get in contact with the best piling Manchester has to offer and speak to a member of the Rhino Piling team today!
