High temperatures are average for some, but can too much heat cause foundation damage? Although it is normal for many residing in our state to experience high temperatures, extreme heat can affect foundations over time, just as a torrential downpour can weaken a house's integrity. In most cases, the foundation of a home will start to crack and give way after experiencing consistently high temperatures over a long period.
Here are some of how hot weather can cause foundation damage;
- Increasing the rate of thermal expansion and contraction.
The cell walls of the concrete expand, breaking apart when exposed to heat and moisture. This causes cracks in the surface or between levels, weakening these points that contribute to a weakened structure overall.
- Causes concrete to crack and erode
When exposed to prolonged high temperatures, the grout between bricks can become weak or brittle. This can create spaces between the mortar that is susceptible to being penetrated by water, which erodes the structure of a home.
- Creating moisture issues
When hot air passes over cold surfaces, it creates water droplets if there is any moisture already in the area. These droplets accumulate on walls and fences, seeping into the brickwork and foundations of homes. High heat, coupled with a steady water supply, will cause significant damage to any home.
Sadly, many homeowners in hot climates have had to deal with foundation damage caused by these conditions. The best way to protect your home is to ensure that the concrete is of high quality and that the surface is regularly inspected for cracks and holes.
- Making the bricks warp.
Concrete is a solid construction material that can still be affected by hot conditions. When temperatures reach high levels, the concrete in your foundation will start to warp from the stress. This can cause damage to walls and foundation materials, creating gaps that water can easily penetrate.
- Causing the sealant to crack and delaminate.
The water in a home will seep into any cracks or holes in the wall or foundation, causing it to expand and contract. This constant movement causes the sealant to degrade, allowing more moisture to seep into the wall. In time, the structure will become weak and unable to properly support the rest of the home.
- Creating dry rot in wood structures.
Wood structures are prone to damage when exposed to too much heat and moisture. Concrete foundations can soak up water and become a haven for mold growth, causing wood structures to rot. Wood that is not treated correctly becomes even more susceptible to damage from mold growth, so it is vital to waterproof wooden frames.
- Causing rust in the steel frames.
Hot temperatures can cause a home's steel frames and other metal elements to weaken and rust over time. This will cause the structure of a home to become unstable, resulting in foundation failure. Thus, hot weather can cause foundation damage in a variety of ways.
One of the most critical problems people face in places with high temperatures is the choice of construction materials. Many manufacturers and suppliers provide materials for different climates.
- Causing cracks in interior walls.
High temperatures can cause several issues for homeowners, including cracks in interior walls. The wall's structure will be compromised and unstable, which can be an expensive problem to fix.
- Shrinking Soil, causing the foundation to settle.
Soil is an essential factor in the overall strength of a house. When soil is too dry or too wet, it can cause the foundation to settle and warp. This can be a significant cause of foundation damage as the settlement will make cracks more extensive and profound.
To combat this problem, keeping the soil as moist as possible is best. It is also beneficial to plant grasses and shrubs to help hold the ground in place. Also, it is recommended to try to maintain the soil as dry as possible.
There is a direct correlation between high heat and foundation problems. In the end, it all boils down to the high temperatures and their effects on the structure of a house. What happens most of the time is that once a home has experienced constant high temperatures for quite some time, it starts to weaken and wear out. The wear can lead to cracks that could get worse if left unchecked. If you suspect your house is experiencing such issues, have it checked by a professional.