The Impact of Soil Erosion on a Foundation’s Stability
Have you ever noticed dirt or sand washing away after it rains? That’s soil erosion. While it might seem harmless, soil erosion under foundation structures can lead to serious problems for your home. Over time, the loss of foundation soil can create voids beneath your home’s base, weakening its support. This erosion is especially problematic under concrete slabs, where it can compromise the stability of patios, driveways, or even your home’s foundation. Left unchecked, this process can lead to foundation damage, causing cracks, uneven floors, and costly repairs.
The good news is that you can take steps to prevent soil erosion and protect your home. By addressing these issues early, you can prevent soil erosion under your concrete slab or foundation, avoiding the voids and structural damage that erosion can cause. Taking these proactive steps ensures that your home stays safe and secure for years to come.
What Is Soil Erosion?
Soil erosion occurs when wind or water flows remove and displace the soil around your home. This can become a serious problem, especially when it affects the soil under your house's foundation. Over time, the gradual loss of soil can undermine the stability of your foundation, much like removing key pieces from the base of a Jenga tower—it weakens the entire structure.
The extent of soil erosion depends on factors such as soil types and the amount of water flowing through the area. For example, sandy soils are more prone to erosion, while clay-heavy soils tend to resist it but may retain excess water, which can cause other issues. Preventing soil erosion under your house foundation is essential to preserving the long-term stability of your home. Understanding how water flows and impacts the soil around your home is the first step in protecting your property.
How Does Erosion Affect Your Foundation?
Your foundation is the backbone of your home, keeping everything stable and secure. However, foundations can face serious issues due to soil erosion, which occurs when the soil underneath gets washed away. This can lead to a range of foundation problems, such as:
- Cracks in walls and floors – Uneven settling caused by shifting soil can create visible cracks throughout your home.
- Sticking doors and windows – When the foundation shifts, doors and windows may no longer open or close smoothly.
- Water leaks and flooding – Gaps in the foundation from soil erosion can allow water to seep into your basement or crawl space, causing costly damage.
Understanding how foundations and soil erosion are connected can help you spot foundation problems early and protect your home from water leaks and other structural issues.
What Causes Soil Erosion?
Several factors can worsen soil erosion around your home, often linked to poor drainage and landscaping issues:
- Heavy rain – Without a proper drainage system, rainwater can accumulate and wash soil downhill, leading to significant erosion.
- Poor landscaping – Insufficient plants or sloping yards that direct water toward your house can cause faster soil erosion, particularly when paired with poor drainage.
- Leaky gutters or downspouts – Water spilling near the foundation due to damaged gutters or an inadequate drainage system can erode the surrounding soil over time.
How Can You Protect Your Foundation?
Prevent soil from washing away under concrete and protect your home's structural integrity with these simple tips:
- Ensure proper drainage – Direct rainwater away from your home using downspouts and correct grading to prevent erosion.
- Install erosion barriers – Use rocks, retaining walls, or other barriers to stop soil from washing away under concrete surfaces.
- Plant grass and shrubs – Their roots keep soil in place, minimizing erosion and maintaining stability.
By keeping erosion in check, you’re safeguarding your foundation, preserving structural integrity, and avoiding costly repairs. Think of it as giving your home a solid foundation to stand tall for years to come!
Written By Shaun Miller, Owner Foundation Solutions Group
Shaun Miller is the owner of Foundation Solutions Group, a trusted foundation repair and waterproofing company serving South Central Kentucky and Middle Tennessee. With over 20 years of experience, Shaun is committed to delivering quality craftsmanship and ensuring that every project is done right the first time, backed by the company’s “Fix-It-Forever Guarantee.” Passionate about educating homeowners, Shaun leads the company’s "Solutions University" initiative to help clients protect their homes through knowledge and preventative care. Dedicated to his community, Shaun also supports local organizations and values the trust his customers place in him.