Sinkhole Warning Signs, What to Look For

What is a Sinkhole, and How Do They Form?

There are many different issues that can contribute to foundation failure. Depending on where you live and the soil your home is built on, sinkholes could be one of them. The symptoms range from subtle to sudden, so it is very important that you recognize sinkhole warning signs. Let’s take a closer look at what causes sinkholes, and what you should on the lookout for.

Sinkholes, Defined

Most of the time we do not give much thought to sinkholes until we see a news story about an unusually large one. The scary thing is, there could be one forming right under your nose, or under your foundation at least! Sinkholes happen when the land surface up above collapses and falls into a void that has formed below it. They are common when the rock below the surface is comprised of limestone, carbonate rock, salt rock, or other types of dissolvable rock that can be washed away by water saturation. When these materials wash away a void forms and eventually the surface above no longer can support itself.

sinkhole warning signs graphic

The Warning Signs

If you live in an area where the soil contains the above-mentioned types of rock, then you need to be aware of the symptoms:

  • Cracks in the ground around your home
  • Newly formed depressions in the ground
  • Fresh cracks in your foundation or other walls around the home
  • Fences and trees that were straight but are now leaning or tilting
  • Sticking doors or windows
  • The sudden appearance of a hole in the ground

Have Any of the Above Symptoms? My Foundation Repairs Can Help

If you live in an area prone to sinkholes and have sinkhole warning signs, My Foundation Repairs can help. First and foremost, if a hole has opened up stay away from the area for your safety. If you contact My Foundation repairs, we can connect you with a contractor in your area that specializes in the diagnosing and remediation of sinkholes. Depending on your specific needs there are varying forms of repair possible, so an MFR contractor can help you understand the solution that is right for you. Contact us today to get connected with a licensed and certified contractor in your area.