Protect Your Foundation from Drought-Induced Damage
Welcome to the sweltering heat and dry conditions of another Texas summer and early autumn in the Greater Fort Worth Area. DFW drought conditions are not merely inconveniences; they’re a cause for concern when it comes to the foundation of your home.
As the trusted experts in foundation repair, Atlas Foundation Inc, located in Burleson, TX, knows the importance of acting now to safeguard your property’s foundation from the damage that North Texas drought conditions can cause. In this comprehensive guide, we will explain the connection between drought, the unique soil characteristics of North Texas, and your home’s foundation, along with the crucial preventative measures you can take.
Why DFW Drought is Bad News for Your Foundation
When most people think of weather events that can cause damage to their homes, their minds often turn to floods, hurricanes, or earthquakes. However, droughts are a silent but impactful culprit, especially when it comes to your home’s foundation.
The Science Behind Drought Foundation Damage
A home’s foundation is like its skeleton, designed to provide a stable structure. This foundation relies on the support and pressure exerted by the soil surrounding it. When that soil loses moisture due to drought, it can shrink, leading to gaps around the foundation.
This creates uneven pressure, leading to problems like cracks, settling, and even severe structural damage. The sinking ground level caused by soil loss is referred to as “soil subsidence,” and it’s a significant cause of foundation issues.
Why North Texas Clay Soil is Not Your Foundation’s Friend
North Texas soil poses unique challenges due to its high clay content, amplifying drought foundation damage. Clay soil contracts more than other soil types during drought conditions, causing it to pull away from your foundation, leading to misalignment and even cracks.
Geographical Variables
What amplifies the problems in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex is the region’s geography. Built on a slope, some homes in this area are particularly prone to foundation issues as they could be sitting directly in a natural drainage path.
Early Warning Signs of Drought-Affected Foundation
The earlier you catch foundation issues, the easier they are to fix. Here are some symptoms to watch out for:
- Cracks in the interior or exterior walls
- Doors and windows that stick or no longer fit properly in their frames
- Sloping or uneven floors
- Separation between walls, and where the wall meets the floor or ceiling
Your Home Tells a Story
If you pay attention, your home will give you clues that all is not well below the surface. Ignoring these signs can lead to escalated problems and costly repairs down the line.
Atlas Foundation’s Foundation Watering Program
Our targeted watering program offers a front-line defense against foundation damage. Sprinkler systems are often inadequate as they deliver water unevenly and don’t reach the foundational soil layers. Specialized foundation watering systems offer deeper, consistent moisture levels and are automated for year-round ease of use.
Essential Preventative Measures
Prevention is always better than cure. Besides our watering program, here are some additional steps you can take:
- Regular Foundation Inspections: Spotting issues early can save you significant money and hassle.
- Effective Drainage: Clean your gutters regularly and ensure that downspouts are directing water away from your foundation.
- Tree and Shrub Management: Keep large trees well away from your foundation, and be mindful of shrubs and other plants that may affect soil moisture levels near your foundation.
Implement Temporary Solutions
While you await professional evaluation, you can take certain steps yourself. Begin your foundation watering program, and consider tree removal or pruning if large trees are close to your home.
Long-Term Solutions
Depending on the severity of the damage, you may need extensive repairs, such as steel piling, pier and beam foundation repair, or concrete leveling.
FAQ
Q: Can drought cause foundation problems?
A: Yes, drought leads to soil contraction, causing significant foundation issues like settling and cracking.
Q: How can I protect my foundation during a drought in Texas?
A: A consistent foundation watering program can make a significant difference.
Q: Is North Texas clay soil bad for foundation?
A: The high clay content in North Texas soil is a problem as it can lead to significant contraction and expansion with moisture levels, causing foundation damage.
Protecting your home’s foundation against the rigors of DFW drought and North Texas clay soil is crucial for maintaining the long-term integrity and value of your property. Atlas Foundation is here to help homeowners in the Greater Fort Worth Area with reliable, expert solutions. For a free estimate, call us today at 817-478-1181. Thank you for entrusting us with your home’s foundational health.