How to Identify Subsidence with Just £1.00

Subsidence. It’s every homeowner’s worst nightmare. With subsidence comes great expense, worry, and disruption. In this article, we will discuss how £1.00 can help you identify subsidence.

Types of cracks and when are they serious?

Cracks in the walls can lead homeowners to suspect there is a subsidence issue, however, it is much more likely this isn’t the case and they are caused by nothing more than natural shrinkage and swelling due to temperature change.

If you notice any of the following, we recommend you seek specialist advice as soon as possible,

• New or expanding cracks which are visible on internal or external walls.
• Rippling in wallpaper that is not caused by damp.
• Doors or windows sticking, without reason.
• Cracks that appear around doors and windows.
• Cracks that are diagonal and are wider at the top than at the bottom.

How can I tell if the cracks are caused by subsidence?

This is where your £1.00 can help! If you notice one large crack of 3mm (about the width of a pound coin) this is a strong indicator there is a subsidence issue. Additionally, if you start experiencing lots of new hairline cracks on internal walls/ external walls or existing cracking that appears to be getting larger this could also be a sign of subsidence too. The sooner subsidence is diagnosed the better, so it is wise to be cautious.

For those living in new build homes please be aware that these properties can often develop cracks in the walls and ceilings early after the build. This is usually nothing more than natural settlement. 

If I suspect subsidence what should I do?

Call a specialist. 

At Geobear we can offer free site visits in person or by video call. 

We can offer advice on the likely cause of subsidence and any investigations that may be required to confirm this eg: Site Investigation and Drain Survey. 

We can offer you a price for these services, alongside a price for our solution too. 

What are the causes of subsidence?

There are a number of things that can cause subsidence. Here we look at some of the common reasons, 

• Trees or vegetation. Large trees can drain the soil of moisture and if they are planted too close to a property they can absorb water from the soil under the foundations which causes the property to move downwards.
• Properties built on clay soils are more susceptible to subsidence, this is because this type of soil has properties that allow it to shrink and swell. Properties affected by clay shrinkage related subsidence may notice their cracks open and close during the year, with the change in seasons. 
• Leaking drains. When water leaks into the soil under your property it washes away the soil foundations, this particularly affects those homes built on sandy or granular soils. 
• Shallow or insufficient foundations. Older properties are often built on shallow foundations with some having none. Issues can also arise where extensions/ conservatories have been built on insufficient foundations.
• Lastly, properties that have been built in areas of mining, old quarries or landfill sites can also be at greater risk of subsidence due to weak ground.

How can I fix subsidence?

Traditionally subsidence issues have been addressed using underpinning or piling.

However, in recent years, Geobear’s geopolymer injection method, known as ground improvement, is fast becoming the preferred solution for private homeowners and insurers alike. 

Why Geobear?

Geobear’s solution can be completed in as little as one day, with minimal disruption. Don’t delay, contact Geobear today.