Can Drought Cause Foundation Problems

After long periods of time without rain, the water within clay begins to evaporate causing it to shrink. As it does, it creates cavities or gaps between the ground and your foundation. … This rapid change in soil shape beneath your foundation can easily cause cracks.

Should you water your foundation during a drought?

During a drought, conserving water is important but a watchful eye will notice a foundation in need of some extra watering. Since dry soil will shrink away from foundations, you can walk around your home to see where the soil is settling, shrinking, or cracking next to the foundation.

How do droughts affect houses?

Drought causes reactive clay to shrink and causes your home to sink. This sinking, known as subsidence to structural engineers, puts extreme stress on your home’s structure. It can even cause damage to your home’s foundations.