Backfilled soil is soil that is excavated when constructing a house to make room for the foundation and then used to fill, or backfill, the gaps and spaces around the foundation.
Backfill is one reason your home may experience water seepage in the basement or crawl space, as well as foundation issues, such as bowing walls and basement wall cracks.
How does backfill soil hurt your home's foundation?
Backfilled soil is less compacted and more porous than virgin or native soil that has not been dug up. This looser soil absorbs and retains rainwater, exerting "hydrostatic pressure" on foundation walls. Since water weighs about 60 pounds per cubic foot, saturated soils against foundation walls can lead to basement wall cracks and bowing walls over time.
How does backfill soil lead to water seepage?
When backfill soil around a home's foundation is saturated, this can lead to the "clay bowl effect." The soil expands, especially clay elements in the soil, and water finds its way in through basement wall and floor cracks. The result is water seepage in the basement or crawl space.
Learn more
In a nutshell, backfilled soil can lead to water seepage and water seepage leads to wood rot, musty odors, and unhealthy air quality in below-grade spaces in the home. Check out the signs of water damage in the basement and learn how to take action to remediate or prevent further damage.
* What is a Free Estimate and Inspection? An authorized Basement Systems or CleanSpace® Crawl Space contractor will schedule a meeting during which a design specialist will inspect and measure your basement or crawl space FREE of charge, provide a free in-depth book on basement or crawl space solutions (valued at $14.95) and present you with a free written estimate at no cost.
** Warranties vary by product and service. Check with your local authorized Basement Systems or CleanSpace® Crawl Space contractor for specific warranty information.
