According to the US Drought Monitor, a service that tracks drought conditions throughout the United States, over half of Texas and much of Oklahoma are currently experiencing abnormally dry to extreme drought conditions.
Dry Conditions Lead to Soil Movement
Clay soils, also referred to as expansive soils are common in Texas. Clay soils are highly volatile – expanding when wet and shrinking as it dries. The drier the conditions, the more extreme the soil shrinkage.
Ultimately, the contraction of soils directly underneath a home leads to erosion that causes foundation movement. The soils that once provided structural support directly underneath your home’s foundation shift, weakening the structural integrity and causing problems.
If you’re experiencing foundation problems, chances are you will see cracks in the walls begin to worsen, find doors and windows beginning to stick and notice the floor may begin to look and feel uneven as the ground shifts.
What to do?
Fortunately there are a few simple DIY foundation maintenance tricks you can do to help protect your home during periods of extreme drought.
If you live in an area with worsening drought conditions such as Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, Denton, Frisco, San Antonio, New Braunfels, San Marcos, Austin, Seguin or Johnson City, schedule a free, no-obligation foundation assessment now, before serious damage occurs.