It seems like we are hearing more and more on the local and national news that much of our country is struggling with an incredible water shortage. Droughts are something that usually comes and goes, but when you’re in the thick of it, it can seem never ending. Not only is enough water for people and the food that we eat a big problem, but droughts can cause other problems like foundation issues. Dallas Foundation Repair is here to talk about the impact that a drought has on the soil which then moves to your foundation.
Why is Soil Important for a Foundation?
Something that many people don’t realize when they think about the foundation of their home is the soil that it sits on. In fact, the soil that is found beneath the foundation of your home is just as important as the foundation itself. Unfortunately, we deal with expansive clay soil in the state of Texas and water, or the lack thereof, can cause all sorts of problem for that type of soil. When water is found around expansive clay soil, it can cause a lot of problems because it swells and grows. However, the lack of moisture can cause issues as well.
Droughts Cause Soil to Shrink
When there isn’t enough water, rather than swelling clay soil, you have shrinking soil. This is problematic when speaking about the foundation of your home. As it shrinks, gaps start to form. These gaps are problematic because gravity pulls the foundation of your home in these gaps which then leads to cracking. Some of the signs that you should be looking for on your foundation during a drought includes:
– Small cracks in the side of the concrete foundation as well as cracks in the sidewalks as well
– Cracks found on exterior walls which includes step shaped cracks in stone and brick
– Cracks on interior walls, plaster or crown molding
– Uneven flooring
– Doors and windows that are difficult to open and close
Water Foundation to Prevent Foundation Problems During a Drought
The good news is that the problems that are brought on by a drought is something that can be easily remedied. All you have to do is make sure the soil that is around your home is sufficiently hydrated. You can do this with the help of a soaker hose that is places a couple feet away from your foundation and turned on every couple of days to make sure there is ample moisture in the soil around the foundation.
Slab Foundation Repair in Lewisville, Flower Mound, Carrollton, Plano, Richardson, Grapevine, Garland, Mesquite, Grand Prairie, Arlington & Great Dallas, Texas
If you have problems with your foundation, you need to have the repairs done right away. The longer you wait to have the foundation repaired, the worse the problems are going to be. At Dallas Foundation Repair, we can make sure your home has the structural support it needs to make your home a safe place to live. Call us today!
