In this article, I will discuss causes of foundation settlement.
There are various reasons of foundation settlement.
I will describe all the major causes of foundation settlement.
Here is the 10 causes of foundation settlement.
- Leakage of sewage water: If there is a leakage of sewage water near the foundation, it can lead to soil erosion and weaken the foundation, causing it to settle.
- Inadequate bearing capacity of the soil: The soil on which the foundation is built should have sufficient bearing capacity to support the weight of the structure. If the soil cannot support the load, it can cause settlement of the foundation.
- Improper compaction or consolidation: If the soil is not compacted or consolidated correctly during construction, it can lead to the formation of air pockets or gaps in the soil, which can cause the foundation to settle.
- More vegetation root depth near to the foundation: If there are trees or other vegetation with deep roots near the foundation, they can penetrate the soil and cause it to shift, leading to foundation settlement.
- External vibration occurrence near to the foundation: External vibrations caused by nearby construction, heavy traffic, or other factors can cause the soil to become loose and lead to foundation settlement.
- Major excavation near to the foundation: If there is a major excavation near the foundation, it can cause the soil to shift and settle, leading to foundation settlement.
- Seepage occurrence: If there is seepage of water near the foundation, it can lead to soil erosion and weaken the foundation, causing it to settle.
- Structural elements built at different depths of foundation: If the structural elements of the building are built at different depths of the foundation, it can cause uneven settlement of the foundation.
- Foundation not constructed at a minimum depth: If the foundation is not constructed at a minimum depth, it can cause the foundation to settle due to inadequate support from the soil.
- Building on loose soil without proper foundation: If the foundation is built on loose or unstable soil without proper reinforcement, it can lead to settlement of the foundation over time