Damage to your home’s foundation can be a nightmare that no homeowner is interested in experiencing. There are several things that can lead to a damaged foundation. One of those problems that many people don’t know about is a drought. When there is a lack of moisture in the soil, it can cause significant problems to the foundation. DuraTech Texas is here to talk about why you need to be concerned about your home’s foundation and structural support when your area is experiencing a drought.
How Does Drought Impact Soil?
Most people don’t think about a drought as severe weather, but that is exactly what it is. When there is a lack of moisture in the soil, it can cause significant problems to structures, including your home. The soil beneath your home is more than likely made up of three different types, sand, silt and clay. You want to have a healthy mixture of the three to create ideal conditions for your home’s foundation. In Texas, we deal with expansive soil that can cause problems for foundations. If there is a drought and moisture isn’t present in the soil, it can cause the soil to shrink.
What is Shrinkage in Soils?
When the soil under your foundation starts to shrink from lack of moisture, it can cause significant damage to the foundation itself. When the soil shrinks, it can cause gaps between the soil and foundation. This will cause issues that are similar to settling. The only problem is that the damage will happen much quicker and will more than likely be more severe. Some settling is always going to happen for a home and foundation, but when there is excessive settling, big problems can come as a result. Soil shrinkage can happen quickly and lead to quicker damage. It is important to note that excessive rain after a drought can be just as damaging to the foundation as the added pressure of the expanded soil leads to big problems as well.
What are the First Signs of Foundation Problems Due to a Drought
If there is damage to your foundation as a result of a drought, you don’t necessarily have to wait around for a foundation professional to tell you. There are usually signs that are present that you can see for yourself. Here are some of the signs you might see if your foundation has been damaged by a drought.
– Cracks in exterior walls, bricks, and siding
– Small cracks on the foundation, steps and sidewalks that are located near the house
– Cracks found inside the home in the drywall or molding
– Uneven flooring
– Doors & windows that aren’t seated properly in their frames or stick when you try to open them
Foundation Repair Services & More in Crosby, Cypress, Friendswood & Greater Houston, Texas
If you have some signs that indicate a problem with your foundation, you can turn to DuraTech Texas to come take a look. If you have damage, we offer you the foundation repair services needed to fix it. Call us today!