How Summer Soil Shifts Affect Your Foundation

Summer in Alabama brings sunshine, longer days, and plenty of outdoor activities. Unfortunately, this season can also present challenges for your home's foundation. Understanding how summer soil shifts affect your foundation can help you take proactive steps to protect your home.

Why Does Soil Shift in the Summer?

As temperatures rise and moisture levels fluctuate, the soil around your home can expand and contract, creating stress that may lead to foundation cracks, shifting, and other structural concerns. Ignoring these changes can result in costly repairs down the road. This is particularly common in areas with clay-heavy soil, which swells when wet and shrinks when dry.

Signs of Foundation Damage

Recognizing the signs of foundation damage early can help you address issues before they escalate. Some common indicators include:

• Cracks in walls, floors, or ceilings
• Doors and windows that stick or no longer align properly
• Sloping or uneven floors
• Gaps between walls and ceilings
• Stair step cracks in brick
• Horizontal cracks in basement walls
• Vertical cracks in the foundation

If you spot any of these warning signs, it’s best to contact a foundation repair specialist promptly.

How to Protect Your Foundation from Summer Soil Shifts

There are several steps you can take to help prevent foundation problems during the summer months:

• Improve drainage — Prevent water from pooling around your foundation by making sure your property has proper drainage systems.
• Maintain vegetation — Trim or remove large trees and shrubs near your home, as their root systems can draw moisture from the soil and lead to shifting.
• Water strategically — During dry periods, water the soil evenly around your foundation to prevent uneven shrinking.

Keep an Eye on Your Foundation 

As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, so it’s best to monitor your foundation regularly. This can help you detect minor issues before they become major problems. For example, check for new cracks or shifts in your walls or floors. It’s also a good idea to schedule a professional inspection each year to catch potential concerns early.

When Should You Call a Professional?

If you suspect your foundation has been affected by shifting summer soil, reach out to a foundation repair specialist right away. A professional will evaluate the extent of the damage and recommend the most effective repair solutions. Addressing foundation issues quickly can prevent costly repairs in the future.

Expert Foundation Repair Services in Alabama

At Ox Foundation Solutions, we understand how summer soil shifts can impact your foundation. Our foundation repair team has the expertise and tools to assess and repair any foundation problems you may be facing. Whether you need preventative solutions or professional repairs, we are here to help protect your home’s structural stability. We serve homeowners in Birmingham, Pelham, Montgomery, Huntsville, Mobile, and other areas throughout Alabama, so contact us today to request a free estimate and keep your house Ox Strong!