Reasons Behind Sinkhole Formation

movement of soil (landslide) under the house foundation make the brick floor crack / collapse on surface and have hole inside, animal can be inside, building construction concern

Sinkholes are part of the gradual, natural erosion cycle that happens over thousands of years in Oklahoma's limestone terrain. In general, these common geological anomalies occur where the limestone is within a few hundred feet of the earth surface.

While most have a diameter of just 10 to 12 feet, sinkholes have been known to extend to hundreds of feet in diameter.

The thought of raising the ground beneath your feet is a frightening prospect. Sinkholes, however, are a reality, and can harm your home and property. But, it is wise to go for a foundation crack repair if any indication is noticed.

Homeowners should be aware that sinkholes may form, especially in regions which have karst terrain. Karst terrain means that the soil under the surface consists of soluble material such as calcareous material.

Oklahoma, which is sitting on karst land, has the unfortunate distinction to lead the country in sinkholes. The insurers reported 24,671 reports of sinkholes over a four-year period – an average of 17 per day. And this only counts the insurance confirmed number of sinkholes.

Karst soil dissolves faster than other soil forms, and it generates gaps and voids as water passes through it – this is what causes a sinkhole and the earth to collapse.

If we hear in the news about a sudden, catastrophic accident that has occurred as a result of a sinkhole, such events are uncommon, but what may grow beneath your home's foundation is a slow-forming sinkhole.

Indications of Foaming Sink Hole

Common signs signaling the development of a sinkhole are close to markers of other settlement foundations.

Sinkhole and settlement signs include:

  • Wall or floor cracks

  • Tilting or leaning chimneys

  • Bowing walls

  • Sticking windows

  • Sloping floors

Though, a sinkhole is a rare occurrence. There are distinct signs that a sinkhole can form as such.

Specific sinkhole indicators include:

  • Foundation cracks in a circular pattern

  • Deep, round puddle formation

  • A circular depression or drop in the ground

  • Trees that tip or begin to lean

  • Water drops into gaps in the ground

  • Fence posts leaning or falling over

Getting informed of just how sinkholes happen and looking for the signs will give you the requisite information to fix the issue before any more harm is done.

When you call a professional at the first sign of one, you don't need to worry about a sinkhole developing.

Contact Ram Jack for foundation crack repair soon after encountering any of the above mentioned indications.

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