Helping Newcomers Understand our Texas Soils and Home Foundations is Key
The slab foundations most commonly used in Texas are comprised of a sturdy footing and a vapor-proofed reinforced concrete pad that sits on a bed of compacted crushed stone. Many newcomers to our state may not be familiar with this. Helping those new to our area understand our preventative processes and procedures for building the foundations of new homes can ease their fears and concerns. When they’re moving into an existing home, it’s also important to set homeowner expectations with regard to a normal amount of settling and their responsibilities in maintaining their home’s structural integrity.
Even when using the best practices, there is no magic formula to ensure against all potential foundation issues. We face the challenges of Texas soil that is often loaded with clay or organic matter and holds water like a sponge, increasing the risk of foundation cracks when the soil freezes and expands. Dry soil caused by drought conditions is an enemy, too.
Many home builders partner with a third-party new home warranty company to provide an express written warranty as part of the building contract. The standard for third-party warranties is a 10-year term on structural components which includes the foundation system and footings. Most new home warranties and some foundation repair warranties are transferrable to a new owner.
For more information read Building Savvy’s Focus Section:
It Takes a Team: Solid Foundations Require Care Taken at Every Stage
Listen to our podcast interviews with Estate Life sponsor Manorly and with geotechnical engineers and others involved in critical foundation infrastructure
on The Savvy List’s Building Savvy Bottom Line.
Contact the sponsor of this page, Manorly Concierge Home Management to discuss a home management plan
that meets your needs or the latest in home styles, maintenance, and best construction practices to consider
if you plan to remodel your home or build a new one
