Learn How to Spot Early Warning Signs of Drain-Related Subsidence with our guide. Stay informed and prevent costly repairs.
Why Damaged Drains Can Cause Subsidence
Subsidence occurs when the ground beneath a property shifts, often due to excess moisture loss in the soil. Damaged or leaking drains can contribute to this by washing away the supporting earth, causing the foundation to sink.
Over time, persistent water exposure weakens the ground, making it unstable and unable to support the structure properly. Properties built on clay-heavy soil are particularly vulnerable, as clay shrinks when it dries out. If left unaddressed, drain-related subsidence can lead to significant structural damage, costly repairs, and even safety risks. Regular drain maintenance and inspections can help detect leaks early, preventing the conditions that lead to subsidence and ensuring your property remains structurally secure.
Cracks in Walls and Brickwork
One of the most noticeable early signs of subsidence is cracking in walls and brickwork.
While small cracks can appear in any property due to minor movement, subsidence-related cracks tend to be wider than 3mm and often appear suddenly. They are typically diagonal and may widen at one end, forming a stair-step pattern in brickwork.
Cracks caused by subsidence usually appear around doors and windows, as these areas are particularly vulnerable to movement.
If you notice cracks growing or reappearing after repairs, this could indicate an underlying issue with your property’s foundation. Investigating potential drainage problems early can prevent further structural damage and help stabilise the affected areas.
Uneven or Sloping Floors
If you notice your floors becoming uneven or sloping, this could be a sign of subsidence caused by damaged drains. As the foundation of a property shifts, it can result in changes to the flooring, causing noticeable dips, slopes, or gaps between the floor and skirting boards. This movement often develops gradually, making it easy to overlook until the problem becomes more severe.
In some cases, wooden floors may creak more than usual, or tiles and laminate flooring may start to lift or crack. If left unchecked, uneven flooring can worsen, leading to serious structural issues. Identifying and repairing drainage faults early can prevent further foundation movement and costly repairs.
Doors and Windows Sticking or Misaligning
If doors and windows suddenly become difficult to open or close, it could indicate subsidence affecting your property’s structure.
As the ground shifts due to leaking drains, parts of the building may sink unevenly, leading to misaligned frames. This can cause doors to jam or scrape against the floor, while windows may no longer fit snugly in their frames.
In some cases, gaps may form around window and door frames, allowing draughts to enter. While seasonal humidity changes can also cause minor swelling in wooden frames, persistent issues should not be ignored. Investigating potential drainage problems early can help prevent long-term structural damage and costly repairs.
Sinking or Depressed Ground Around Your Property
If you notice dips, sinking patches, or depressions forming around your home, it may be an early warning sign of drain-related subsidence. Leaking drains can wash away soil, causing the ground to become unstable and collapse in certain areas. This issue is often visible near external walls, pathways, or driveways, where the ground may appear lower than the surrounding surface.
In extreme cases, you might notice standing water pooling in low-lying areas, indicating poor drainage. Ignoring these signs can lead to foundation instability and costly structural damage. Regularly inspecting the ground around your property and addressing drainage issues promptly can help prevent subsidence and protect your home’s stability.
Midlands Drainage Solutions LTD specialises in a variety of drain services across the Midlands, offering reliable and efficient services for residential and commercial properties. Our team ensures prompt identification of drainage issues, helping to maintain your property's drainage system in top condition.