Street creep might sound like something out of a horror movie, but it’s a real and sneaky issue that can cause significant damage to your home’s foundation. Homeowners often overlook this problem until it’s too late. Let’s dive into what street creep is, how it affects your home, and what you can do to protect your property.
What is Street Creep?
Street creep, also known as concrete creep or road creep, refers to the gradual movement of concrete driveways, streets, and sidewalks over time. This movement is typically caused by temperature fluctuations, soil expansion, and contraction. When streets and driveways are pushed against your home’s foundation, it can create substantial pressure, leading to structural damage.
Here’s how it happens:
Thermal Expansion and Contraction: In warmer weather, concrete expands, pushing against anything in its path, including your driveway and foundation. In colder months, concrete contracts, leaving small gaps. Over time, this cycle of expansion and contraction results in cumulative movement known as street creep.
Soil Movement: Soil beneath the concrete can shift due to freeze-thaw cycles, water infiltration, or even nearby construction activities. As the soil moves, so does the concrete, further aggravating the effects of street creep.
How Street Creep Affects Your Home’s Foundation
Street creep can cause various structural issues that worsen over time if left unchecked. Here’s how it impacts your home:
Foundation Cracks: One of the most common signs of street creep is cracks in your foundation walls or basement floors. As the concrete moves, it pushes against the foundation, causing cracks that can lead to water intrusion, mold growth, and structural instability.
Misaligned Windows and Doors: The shifting pressure from street creep can cause your home’s framing to move slightly, resulting in misaligned doors and windows. You might notice doors that stick, windows that don’t close properly, or even visible gaps around frames
Driveway and Garage Floor Damage: Street creep can also affect the concrete slabs of your driveway or garage floor, causing them to crack or shift. This not only looks unsightly but can also be a tripping hazard and reduce the overall value of your property.
Damage to Basement Walls: The pressure from street creep can push basement walls inward, creating bowing or leaning walls. This kind of damage is severe and can compromise the structural integrity of your entire home.
Preventing and Repairing Street Creep Damage
Addressing street creep early can save you from costly repairs and preserve your home’s value. Here are some strategies to prevent and repair damage:
Install Expansion Joints: Expansion joints are crucial in controlling the movement of concrete. If your driveway or nearby street lacks proper expansion joints, adding them can help absorb the pressure and reduce the impact on your foundation.
Foundation Repair: If street creep has already caused considerable damage to your foundation, professional repairs such as wall anchors, helical piers, or carbon fiber reinforcements might be necessary. These solutions can stabilize your foundation and prevent further movement.
Regular Inspections: Schedule regular inspections with a foundation specialist, especially if you live in an area with extreme temperature changes. Early detection of street creep can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.
Driveway Slab Adjustment: In some cases, adjusting the alignment of your driveway slabs or adding a slip joint between the driveway and your garage can mitigate the effects of street creep.
Why You Should Act Now
Street creep is a slow but persistent issue that can escalate quickly if ignored. The cost of repairing the foundation outweighs the expense of preventative measures. By understanding the signs of street creep and taking proactive steps, you can protect your home’s foundation and avoid costly repairs in the future.
If you suspect street creep is affecting your home, don’t wait until the damage becomes severe. Reach out to a trusted foundation expert to assess your property and recommend the best course of action.
Protect Your Home with BAM Basements and Masons
At BAM Basements and Masons of Des Moines, we specialize in identifying and repairing street creep damage. Our team of experienced professionals can assess your foundation, recommend the right solutions, and provide expert repairs to keep your home safe and secure. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and protect your home from the creeping threat of street creep.
Tags: streetcreep, concrete leveling, driveway sinking, sinking sidewalk, cracks in driveway