Your foundation does a remarkable job at keeping your house in place; however, because it rests in soil, it may shift throughout the year. While this movement is natural, it can wreak havoc on your foundation. We’re going to explain exactly how the weather can affect your foundation.
Heavy Rainfall
Excessive rainfall can be detrimental to your foundation. As your soil collects rainwater, it swells and pushes against your foundation. If your soil can’t absorb any more rain, it’ll leak into your home through cracks and other openings, such as the spaces around your basement’s windows. The rain can also make your soil soft and mushy, which could cause your foundation to settle.
Hot Temperatures
Chicago Climate Action confirms that “Since 1980, Chicago’s average temperature has increased approximately 2.6 degrees.” Thus, there’s no denying that the state of Illinois can get hot, and unfortunately, your home will suffer. Sweltering temperatures can cause the soil to dry out, so it pulls away from your foundation. Since the soil is less dense (and less supportive), your foundation weakens as a result. Plus, the small amount of moisture inside the foundation evaporates, so it’ll crack.
Wind
Your home’s foundation may not be able to stand up against high winds. Strong winds may cause uplift, which is when the wind flows over your roof and separates your home from its foundation. Due to wind pressure, your home may even tilt, rotate, or slide off its foundation.
Cool Conditions
Colder temperatures can also create major problems for your foundation, particularly if it’s made from concrete. When the ground freezes, it starts from the top and progresses downward to the soil. Then, your soil shrinks and pulls away from your foundation—what remains is a gap between your soil and your foundation, so your home becomes unstable. Once the ground thaws again, the space under your foundation doesn’t move back to its original position.
Did the weather take a toll on your home? It’s important to contact your local professionals as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Call the Real Seal today for exceptional foundation repair. Our experts take care of cracks, sinking and settling issues, and more.
