The Impact of Weather on Your Foundation
As a homeowner, you know the impact that weather can have on your house. From time to time it might seem like Mother Nature is out to get you – heavy rain, snow, or icy temperatures all have their own unique way of making life difficult. But what about its effect on your home's foundation?
Unexpected changes in temperature and soil quality can cause serious damage to your property if undetected, so it’s important that you stay informed on how extreme weather can affect your foundation. In this post, we'll take a look at why weather matters when assessing the condition of your foundation and examine some preventative measures you can take to protect its long-term strength.
The Effects of Rain on a Foundation
Rain is something many homeowners take for granted, but if proper drainage isn't prepared and gutter maintenance isn't done well, rain can cause major damage to one's foundation. Moisture in the soil around foundations will make it expand and contract, leading to cracking or upheaval of the home’s foundation.
Signs of water damage include any pooling water near the foundation as well as any evidence of staining, erosion, or degradation of cement materials. To prevent this kind of damage, gutters must be kept free from leaves and other debris that would impede proper drainage. If you do find any signs of water damage in your home, contact a qualified contractor right away to assess the situation and discuss potential solutions.
The Effects of Drought on a Foundation
Drought can have drastic effects on a foundation, as dry soil can shift and create pressure points on the foundation's footing. Properly watering clay-rich soil is key to helping it retain water and keep its structure. However, overwatering can also cause problems by weakening the ground around the foundation walls. To prevent this, the best course of action is to ensure that the soil is adequately moistened while avoiding over-saturating it.
If you notice any signs of damage such as shifting walls, cracks, or other imperfections, call in a professional to assess and repair your foundation due to drought conditions. Ensuring proper care of your foundation will be vital in protecting your home from significant damage in times of drought.
The Effects of Extreme Temperatures on a Foundation
Extreme temperatures can wreak havoc on a foundation, leaving it vulnerable to cracking, crumbling, and other forms of damage. When temperatures exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit, the air particles expand, causing the soil around your foundation to become loose and easily moved. In contrast, during temperature drops below freezing, any moisture that has seeped into the cracks in your foundation freezes, creating pressure that causes further damage.
To protect your foundation from extreme weather conditions, you should monitor changing temperatures closely and ensure that any weak spots within your home’s exterior are addressed promptly. Additionally, install anchor bolts or reinforcing steel beneath concrete walls to increase the strength and integrity of foundation-building materials. Lastly, always be aware of shifting ground levels near the home’s perimeter as this can lead to a weakened or unbalanced foundation.
If you suspect damage caused by extreme temperatures has occurred on your property, contact an experienced foundation repair specialist right away who can accurately assess the full extent of repairs needed and begin working towards restoring your foundation back to health quickly.