Click2Houston recently published an informative report examining land subsidence in the Houston area, and I wanted to share some of its key findings.
Ground movement isn’t limited to one corner of the Houston area. Data from the Harris-Galveston Subsidence District’s interactive map identifies sinking land in communities including Cypress, Tomball, Spring, Fulshear, and Katy. Since 2007, certain locations have experienced more than 12 inches of elevation loss. View the interactive map here.
- What is subsidence? Land subsidence is the gradual sinking or lowering of the ground.
- Why it happens: In Southeast Texas, subsidence has historically been linked largely to groundwater pumping, which can compress underground clay layers.
- Possible warning signs: Cracked walls, uneven floors, sticking doors and changes in drainage may indicate ground or foundation movement.
- Impact on homes: Ground movement can contribute to foundation damage and potentially lead to costly repairs.
- Flooding concerns: Lower land elevations can change drainage patterns and increase flood vulnerability in some areas.
- Other possible causes: Drought, expansive soils, plumbing leaks and poor drainage can cause similar signs, so damage does not automatically mean subsidence.
- What homeowners can do: Document changes, address drainage issues, and consider a professional evaluation before committing to major foundation repairs.
Click on the YouTube video below to view the report.