While we often think about damage to our home’s foundation being caused by heavy rain and flooding, hot, dry weather like we have here in Middle Tennessee throughout July and August may be just as destructive. Although the effects are more subtle, even a short drought coupled with extreme heat can lead to significant structural issues.
Soil Shrinkage
If you go outside for more than just a few minutes, you already feel thirsty, and after a long day your skin is probably dry. Soil likewise loses moisture in the heat, especially when rainy days are few and far between. Soil shrinkage can cause the earth to pull away from your home, leaving gaps that can result in unsupported areas.
When the rain finally comes, these voids can become a serious issue. When sudden and heavy rain hits extremely dry soil, it isn’t absorbed evenly. This means it runs directly to your foundation and leads to erosion. This can also cause hydrostatic pressure against the foundation walls, which further increases your home’s chances of succumbing to some form of structural damage.
Warning Signs of Foundation Stress
Damage from dry soil doesn’t happen overnight. It is a gradual problem with symptoms that may not be immediately apparent. These include thin cracks around exterior brickwork, the foundation, or your interior drywall. You might also notice windows that stick, uneven floors, and gaps between the wall and the ceiling.
What You Can Do
As summer comes to a close, we’ll likely have more hot, dry days than the rest of the year. But you can’t wait around for the occasional thunderstorm to help maintain the moisture in your lawn. Consider watering around the perimeter of your house at least once a week to help. You can also contact Barrier Waterproofing for help with ways to direct rainwater away from your home during the rainy season and to help your home maintain its foundation during the dry season. Whether you are looking for French drains or carbon fiber supports, Barrier Waterproofing has you covered.
August is the perfect time to ensure that your home’s foundation can withstand the extreme highs and lows of Tennessee weather between now and the spring. Give us a call and let one of our waterproofing experts protect your home’s foundation throughout all four seasons.
