Last week, KENS 5 News featured a short special on Texas drought keeping both homeowners and foundation repair companies busy. With 97% of Texas homeowners experiencing dry conditions, foundations are cracking and costing homeowners thousands of dollars in repair. Although recent July rains have brought relief to some parts of Texas, the drought is still expected to continue or worsen throughout the late summer and early fall.
John Campbell, Olshan General Manager says ”there is no discrepancy between a newer home and an older home.” Mr. Campbell then goes on to explain that without periodic monthly rains, the dry conditions are shrinking the soil beds. It is when this happens that the earth begins to put pressure on the foundation.
On average foundation repair costs range between $8,000 – $20,000. Don’t get uneasy just yet, because there are some preventative measures that can be taken.
How to prevent foundations from cracking:
Foundation problems are caused by the continuously changing conditions of the soil around a home. Clay soils expand as they absorb moisture and contract as they dry. In intense dry Texas conditions, they can cause foundations to move, settle and crack. Here are some tips on how you can prevent such foundation shifts from happening
Water Frequently
By frequently watering around the home and throughout the seasons, your soil will be able to maintain consistent moisture. Experts at Olshan recommend watering 3 times, for 5 minutes, every 15 minutes twice a day.
Monitor Drainage
Poor gutters or ones that are not properly installed could be working against your foundations. Proper downspouts should discharge water at least 5 feet from the foundation. Downspouts that don’t properly discharge water can result in pooling. When water begins to pool it can seep down underneath your foundation. Mud underneath can cause the foundation to shift.
Proper Grading
Create a proper grade by ensuring that your home slopes away from your foundation. A proper slope is around 3 to 5 percent within 10 feet of a given foundation. By ensuring that your home properly slopes away from your foundation, you will avoid potential pooling and water getting underneath your foundation.
If your home’s foundation has shifted, settled or cracked contact Olshan Foundation Solutions today for a free estimate. Stop your foundation troubles before they escalate and cost you well into the thousands of dollars.