What is Hydrostatic Pressure and can it Damage My Home?

If you’ve read any of our other articles you’ll definitely have heard us say how water damage is one of the most common causes of foundation damage. So how does hydrostatic pressure play in? When we talk about hydrostatic pressure, we usually mean increased soil pressure caused by water in the soil around the home. In particularly rainy seasons or floods, it is common for the soil to become filled with water, increasing the “pressure” around the home, which pushes on the walls of your crawl space or foundation.

Can it damage my home?

Hydrostatic pressure is a serious issue and can cause major damage to your foundation. Unlike other more gradual sources of damage, hydrostatic pressure can cause catastrophic issues along the entirety of the foundation. The pressure on the walls can crack concrete and break piers leading to serious issues.

How can I fix it?

The best way to fix the issue is to first be proactive. Make sure to install proper irrigation around the home. Maintain your gutters and have a proper drainage system installed. However, if the problem happens before you can do these things, then you may have to employ more drastic measures, such as pumping the soil around the home.

It’s always best to catch the issue early. If you notice that the soil or land around your home is excessively damp or wet for longer than usual, make sure to call Sure Safe. We can check your foundation to make sure the foundation is still strong, and help you make a plan to address the issue!