How Bad is My Foundation Movement? Understanding Severity Assessment in Arizona

 

When homeowners are informed about their foundation movement and the need for stabilization, it is natural to wonder about the severity of the situation. Assessing foundation movement can be challenging for homeowners, but gaining clarity is crucial for making informed decisions.

 

Considering the Motivation of Foundation Movement Assessments

 

Firstly, it is essential to consider the motivation of the person providing the assessment. If the individual stands to gain financially from selling products to address the foundation movement, skepticism about their objectivity is warranted. It is advisable to seek assessments from professionals with appropriate credentials, such as professional engineers or certifications from recognized independent foundation repair associations.

 

  

Foundation Movement Assessment: Comparing Severity

 

In determining the severity of foundation movement, a comparative analysis is valuable. Homeowners often ask themselves, "Is my foundation movement bad compared to what?" It is important to ascertain whether there is a scale, grading system, or pass/fail criteria for reference. Reports prepared by structural engineers for homeowners often emphasize that the house is not at immediate risk of structural collapse. While this is reassuring, the focus should shift to assessing whether the home is functioning properly and remains serviceable—these considerations provide a more accurate understanding of the situation.

 

Setting Standards: Guiding Foundation Movement Assessment

 

To aid in assessing foundation movement severity, the Texas chapter of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and the Foundation Performance Association (FPA) have adopted standards. These standards serve as agreed-upon consensus guidelines for evaluation and include two key components: tilt and deflection.

 

    

Measuring Foundation Deflection: Assessing Bend and Curvature

 

Deflection refers to the degree of bend or curvature in the foundation. It measures the extent of humps or dips present in the foundation. Deflection is quantified using a ratio, specifically the height of the hump or dip (vertical distance) divided by the length it extends over (horizontal distance). The accepted pass/fail ratio, according to ASCE and FPA, is L/360. Any measurement below 1/360 falls below the pass/fail threshold.

 

  

Helping Homeowners Understand Foundation Movement By Applying the Right Standards 

 

By understanding and applying these standards, homeowners can gain a clearer understanding of the severity of their foundation movement. Consulting professionals well-versed in these standards can help assess whether the foundation meets the acceptable criteria, providing valuable insights for making informed decisions about stabilization measures. Remember, it is not just about the risk of structural collapse but also ensuring the functionality and long-term viability of the home.