Foundation Damage Caused by Weather and Expansive Soil: An Overview

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

North Texas, 8-24-24

Foundation damage is a common issue faced by homeowners and owners of light commercial buildings. Many factors can contribute to foundation problems, and one significant cause is the interaction between weather conditions and expansive soil. In an effort to spread awareness about this issue, foundation repair consultant Richard Rash has provided valuable insights and guidance to address these concerns.

Concrete foundations are typically poured during dry weather, and occasionally during a drought. However, a common mistake is the improper grading of areas around foundations. This leads to water pooling in certain areas, while other sections experience runoff. When water accumulates next to a foundation built on expansive soil, it is wicked in and spreads beneath the foundation and slab. As a result, the soil expands unevenly, causing the foundation to flex or twist. This can lead to the development of cracks in door and window frames, hard floor coverings, sheet rock and brick or stone siding.

The process of foundation damage is gradual, often taking time to manifest visible signs. However, when normal rainfall years are followed by extreme heat and drought, such as 2023, moisture is pulled from under the foundation rapidly and unevenly. This causes further differential shrinking of the supporting soil, intensifying the twisting and damage to the structure. The real acceleration of damage occurs when new rains return during or directly after a drought, expanding soils and increasing the movement and intensity of the damage.

This pattern of damage has been observed repeatedly, including during the drought years of 1982-84, 1996, 2006, and 2011. Unfortunately, this year seems to be following the same trend. Richard Rash, a seasoned professional with over forty years of experience in the foundation repair industry, has been providing valuable guidance to homeowners and owners of apartments and light commercial buildings. As a independent, fee paid foundation repair consultant, Rash understands the importance of addressing foundation issues promptly and effectively.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding foundation damage and its implications, Richard Rash is available to provide expert advice and assistance. He can be reached at 817-308-8186 or through his website at https://www.repairfoundations.com .

### Note to editors: For more information or to schedule an interview with Richard Rash, please Call/Text 817-308-8186