Heavy Rain and How it Affects your Foundation

Heavy rain can cause a lot of problems for your foundation

crack in basement diagram

When it rains, the first things you might worry about are a leaking roof or pooling water in your yard. But there is a much more serious problem that can occur when it rains a lot: foundation problems. Here is what to look for.

New cracks may form in your foundation walls

Not all cracks in your foundation are major problems, but even minor cracks can turn into larger problems if not kept in check. Cracks that are less than an eighth of an inch are pretty common to see. If you notice new cracks or changes in existing cracks in your foundation walls or floors, or even in drywall and ceilings in your home, it may be an indicator of soil changes due to heavy rains. These problems can get worse fast, so if you are experiencing heavy rains in your area keep cracks on your radar and have changes inspected by a foundation repair professional.

Major changes can happen fast in the form of foundation settlement or bowing walls

Soil expands and contracts based on the weather conditions. Right now in our home area of Kansas City, it has been really dry. This causes the soil to contract away from the foundation. But if we get a heavy rain it will change everything very fast. Water will go right to those areas where the soil has contracted, and the wet soil will expand, putting pressure on foundation walls causing them to bow in and crack and even fail. If it is really dry and you have a sudden, heavy rain, check your foundation walls in your basement or crawl space for leaks. If you notice musty odors or dampness make sure to contact a contractor for help because there may be water coming in from places you aren’t seeing.

Luckily our network of contractors knows that foundation repair and waterproofing go hand in hand. Many of our contractors can resolve issues with water in your basement or crawl space as well as repair bowing walls and foundation settlement. To learn more call us today. We will find you a contractor in your local area to help you out!