Why Does Soil Pull Away a Foundation?

Expansive soil is found in many parts of the U.S., but it is especially prevalent in OKC. Many homes in the area are built on this clay-rich, spacious terrain. While this dirt appears to be quite solid, it has a distinct problem with foundations. When clay is moist, it expands. The clay shrinks as it dries. This is why you may feel the dirt peeling away from your foundation on summer days.

Shifting is a common occurrence due to the shrinking and swelling of expansive soil. Any movement is harmful for a foundation; therefore, we attempt to keep it to a minimum. Drainage solutions are used during wet seasons to keep the soil near the foundation to be swollen with water. Summer shrinkage, on the other hand, is overlooked by far too many people.

In reality, if you notice the earth moving away from the foundation in the dry season, it isn't usually a cause for concern. It is, however, something about which you should take action. If the soil is excessively dry, you should use moisture, just like you would in the rainy season. If the dirt is actually peeling away from the foundation, it is said that you wet it with a hose to add some moisture. As the soil transitions from dry to wet, this helps to reduce the dramatic shifting that can occur.

Understand Soil Is Pulling Away from the Foundation

Your foundation is subject to movement due to the makeup of the soil with which it comes into contact. Expansive clay soils contract and in expand response to moisture content, which is directly related to the weather. In the event of heavy rain, this might also cause foundation heaving. However, house foundations that experience scorching hot summers may see the soil contract owing to a lack of moisture. This causes the earth to slide away from the foundation, resulting in gaps, fissures, and other issues. If this occurs, foundation inspection and repair might be obligatory.

What Should I Do if The Soil Pulls Away?

The finest thing you can do this summer is to start hydrating the foundation. This prevents the soil from eroding. When the weather is really hot, one approach is to set a soaker hose approximately 12-18” from the foundation and run it for 20 minutes every day. Alternatively, you can set up a sprinkler system to irrigate your lawn and the area around your foundation. Of course, you don't want the soil to become excessively wet or soggy; instead, water your foundation just enough to keep it damp. Also, keep in mind the weather - if a large downpour has recently passed through, don't bother watering the foundation!

Do you live in a house that was constructed on a large piece of land? It doesn't necessarily indicate you have foundation difficulties, but you should keep a closer eye on your foundation than other homeowners. To learn more about what Ramjack can do on a solid foundation, contact us now.