Home foundation problems are common in North Texas. Both dry and wet conditions can cause issues with foundations, meaning homeowners need to pay attention to their foundations year-round.
During times of drought, the soil can contract and pull away from the foundation. When the soil no longer offers support, the foundation can shift, causing the potential for cracks. To prevent the soil from drying out, homeowners should use a soaker hose or something similar to water their foundation. Suggested placement of soaker hoses and drip irrigation around the perimeter of the house is six to 18 inches away from the foundation.
Foundations can also be damaged during times of heavy rain. If the soil has cracks in it, rain can seep in, causing the soil to expand quickly or swell, which in turn puts pressure on your foundation creating the potential for it to shift or crack. This fluctuation from dry (contraction) to wet (expansion) and back is what leads to foundation issues over time.
Paying attention to your foundation year-round via routine inspection, watering as necessary in dry conditions and ensuring proper drainage away from the foundation in wet conditions, will help minimize the potential movement and cracks in your foundation.
