We’ve seen it all when it comes to foundation issues, and we know that small problems can quickly turn into major repairs if left unchecked, especially during periods of drought. One of the most helpful tools homeowners can use in an effort to get ahead of foundation issues is by using the U.S. Drought Monitor.
Soil and Weather Conditions Impact Your Foundation
Did you know that foundation problems are often caused by the soil surrounding your home? With weather patterns growing more extreme, dry, shifting soils are becoming a significant issue in many regions, leading to increased foundation stress. By using updates from the U.S. Drought Monitor, you can identify which areas are currently experiencing these dry conditions, which can cause existing foundation problems to reemerge—or even get worse.
When the soil dries out and shrinks, it creates voids underneath your home, which can cause your foundation to settle and crack. Left untreated, these minor cracks can grow into severe structural issues that demand costly repairs.
The hotter and dryer things get, for longer stretches – the more the potential for increased damage.
Dry, cracking soil indicates drought, a precursor to foundation damage
Early Detection Is Key
The good news is that catching these problems early can save you from major repair bills down the line. Monitoring your local drought conditions is the first step. When your area begins trending towards “orange-to-red” on the Drought Monitor, it’s time to pay closer attention to your foundation, especially if you’ve already noticed small cracks or settlement issues in previous seasons.
Keep in mind, when the Drought Monitor shows your area trending into the red, it’s a clear signal that soil conditions have worsened, and foundation problems are more likely to appear, not just for you but also your neighbors.
During these times of regional drought, the demand for foundation repair service can surge, leading to longer wait times for inspections, estimates, and project start dates. Acting quickly when drought conditions worsen means you’ll secure an appointment sooner, avoiding potential backlogs. While your home’s foundation can typically withstand some time before significant damage occurs, the longer you wait, the more likely you are to face scheduling challenges and risk further issues. By being proactive, you can ensure your foundation is repaired without the stress of long waits or increasing damage.
Using the U.S. Drought Monitor to Protect Your Home
The U.S. Drought Monitor is a free and easy-to-use resource that allows you to track drought conditions in your area. It’s especially helpful in understanding how prolonged dry weather may affect the soil beneath your home. At Olshan, we recommend acting before conditions worsen—because foundation problems are best dealt with early on.
Don’t wait for the damage to escalate! If you notice dry, cracking soil around your home, or if you’ve been experiencing persistent drought conditions, reach out to our team of experts. We’ll evaluate your foundation and offer solutions that provide peace of mind.
Stay Ahead of Foundation Problems with Olshan
At Olshan Foundation Repair, we’ve been committed to protecting homes and helping families live better for over 90 years.
Our expertise, combined with cutting-edge tools like our innovative ORLY Foundation Monitoring System (available in select markets) allows us to provide daily insights into your foundation’s health. With ORLY, you can stay ahead of potential problems by tracking shifts in real-time. Paired with our innovative repair solutions, we help keep your home’s foundation stable for years to come.
Don’t let shifting soil compromise the safety of your home—stay in-the-know with Olshan.
