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Frequently Asked Questions About Sinkholes
 What is a Sinkhole?
Sinkholes, also known as a "sinks", are depressions or holes in the land surface that are formed when surface sediments collapse into underground cavities. Over a long period of time, ground water can dissolve limestone bedrock forming underground caves or cavities and eventually the ceiling collapses, forming the sinkhole. Sinkhole formation can be accelerated by developments like retention ponds, buildings, changes in drainage patterns, heavy traffic, drilling vibrations or declining ground-water level. Sinkhole formation can also be accelerated by periods of heavy rain or drought. Sinkholes vary in size from a few feet to hundreds of feet in diameter.
What are the Symptoms of a Sinkhole
Depressions in the surface of your yard are not always caused by sinkholes. Underground layers of clay may shrink upon drying, poorly compacted soil from construction or excavations may settle and broken pipes or decaying organic matter can all cause settling of the ground surface.
Sinkholes can cause exterior and interior cracks in walls sometimes making it difficult to close doors or windows. Depressions in sidewalks, patios or driveways may form causing cracks. Trees or lamp posts may lean. More of your foundation may become visible as the ground sinks around it.
If you suspect a sinkhole is forming or you are any type of settlement problem, play it safe and call Foundation Services at 352-622-9218 immediately.
Find out more about Sinkhole Pressure Grouting and how it call solve your sinkhole problem here.
You can find out more about sinkholes at the sites below:
Southwest Florida Water Management District
Download their PDF sinkhole information brochure here.
Florida Department of Environmental Protection - Sinkhole Questions
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