If you live in Fort Worth, Grapevine, or Irving, Texas then you know firsthand how hot temperatures can get, especially during peak summer months. Extreme heat can cause issues in many different areas of life, including the foundation of your home. During times of high temperatures and little to no rain, soil will often contract. If you’ve ever seen dry ground form cracks, this is because the soil has contracted due to the heat and lack of any moisture.
Foundation Damage from Extreme Heat
When the soil around your home’s foundation contracts, it pulls away from the foundation. This contraction can lead to movement in the foundation and cause fractures. Ranging from ⅛” to ¼” inch to even a full 1”, these fractures can cause a lot of damage to your foundation. These fractures can quickly grow and result in severe foundation damage.
Fractures and gaps will weaken the concrete of your slab foundation over time. This can result in your foundation sinking or settling. You’ll notice if this is happening if you observe sloping or if your foundation is no longer level. Regular maintenance and preventative measures are key to ensuring the health of your foundation.
How Can I Prevent Foundation Damage From Extreme Heat?
Luckily, there are preventative steps that you can take to prevent foundation damage to your home. The most common measure to take is referred to as watering your foundation. During periods of dry heat, moisture is sucked out of the soil which will begin to contract. As mentioned above, this can lead to damage to your foundation. Using a soaker hose to water your foundation helps to aid that moisture back into the soil to prevent contraction. It is a good idea to find out how often you should water your foundation and learn how to properly do it.
If you believe your foundation has been damaged by extreme heat and dry soil, contact us at Discount Foundation Repair today for a free evaluation. Our highly skilled professionals will thoroughly assess your foundation for any damage and provide recommendations.