The short answer
How Storms Damage Foundations
Storms bring intense rain that soaks the ground around your home. When the soil becomes heavily saturated, it expands and pushes against the foundation walls. This pressure can cause hairline cracks to form, especially in concrete foundations that have not fully cured or have pre-existing weaknesses.
After the storm passes, the soil dries out and shrinks. This creates gaps and uneven support under the foundation. The shifting soil can cause the foundation to settle unevenly, which often results in new cracks or widening of existing ones. The cycle of wetting and drying is a major cause of foundation damage.
Signs of Foundation Cracks
Look for cracks in interior walls, especially above doorways and windows. These often appear as stair-step patterns along drywall seams. You might also notice doors or windows that stick, or gaps between the floor and baseboards. These can be signs that the foundation is moving.
Outside, check the foundation walls for vertical or diagonal cracks. Pay attention to areas where the soil meets the concrete, as this is a common spot for damage. If you see water pooling near the foundation after a storm, that is a warning sign that drainage is not working properly.
Bullets for spotting damage:
- Cracks wider than a quarter-inch
- Stair-step cracks in brick or block
- Doors or windows that stick
- Gaps around window frames
- Water pooling near the foundation
- Uneven or sloping floors
Immediate Steps to Take
If you suspect a foundation crack, act quickly. Start by documenting the damage with photos and notes. This helps you track whether the cracks are getting worse over time. Then, check your gutters and downspouts to ensure water is directed away from the foundation.
Improve drainage around your home by extending downspouts and grading the soil so it slopes away from the foundation. In a hot, dry climate, this is a key step. Keep your downspout extensions in good condition and clear of debris.
Bullets for what to do:
- Take photos of all visible cracks
- Measure crack width and length
- Clear gutters and downspouts
- Extend downspouts away from the house
- Check for water pooling after rain
- Note any changes in doors or windows
When to Call a Professional
Some cracks are cosmetic, but others indicate structural problems. If you see cracks wider than a quarter-inch, or if they are growing, you should have a professional assess the situation. A structural engineer can determine whether the foundation is safe.
Water damage pros can help with the cleanup and drying after a storm, but they do not replace an engineer's evaluation. For immediate water intrusion, you can contact local water damage pros to help with extraction and drying. They can also handle related issues like drywall water damage repair.
Bullets for professional help:
- Cracks that are actively growing
- Doors and windows that no longer close
- Visible separation between wall and floor
- Water seeping into the crawlspace
- Sagging or uneven floors
Preventing Future Damage
Prevention is often easier than repair. Ensure your gutters are clean and downspouts carry water at least five feet away from the foundation. Consider installing a French drain if you have persistent drainage issues. These measures reduce the amount of water that soaks into the soil.
Monitor your foundation regularly, especially after heavy storms. Look for new cracks or changes in existing ones. If you notice any, address them early. Keeping the soil moisture consistent around your foundation can also help, but be careful not to overwater during dry spells.
Bullets for prevention:
- Clean gutters twice a year
- Install a French drain if needed
- Water plants away from the foundation
- Inspect foundation after each major storm
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Call Now (480) 898-4279Frequently asked questions
What should I do if I find a crack after a storm?
Document the crack with photos and measurements. Check if it is growing over a few weeks. If it is wider than a quarter-inch or growing, contact a structural engineer for an evaluation. For water intrusion, you can also call the pros to help with drying.
Are all foundation cracks serious?
No, hairline cracks are often cosmetic and not a structural concern. However, cracks that are wide, growing, or accompanied by sticking doors or uneven floors can indicate a problem. A professional inspection can tell you whether the crack needs repair or just monitoring.
Can I fix a foundation crack myself?
Small hairline cracks can sometimes be sealed with epoxy or concrete patch, but this is only a temporary fix. Structural cracks require professional repair. Attempting to fix a serious crack yourself can hide the problem and lead to more damage. Always have a professional assess the cause first.