Why Foundations Crack in Clay Soil

The Soil Under New Braunfels

Much of the ground around New Braunfels is expansive clay. This kind of soil holds a lot of water. When it rains, the clay swells and pushes upward and outward. When it dries out during a hot summer or drought, it shrinks and pulls away.

That swelling and shrinking is the wet-and-dry cycle, and it is the leading local cause of foundation movement.

How the Cycle Reaches Your Foundation

A foundation rests on the soil, so it goes wherever the soil goes. The trouble is that the soil rarely moves evenly. One side of the home may stay damp from a downspout while another side bakes dry. As parts of the foundation lift and settle at different rates, stress builds up in the concrete or framing.

That stress has to go somewhere, and it often shows up as cracks.

Common Places Cracks Appear

• Along walls, especially near windows and doors
• In brick or masonry outside
• Across concrete floors
• Around door and window frames that start to stick

What Helps

Because the problem starts with moisture in the soil, managing water is a big part of the answer. Steady drainage, sensible watering during dry spells, and keeping runoff away from the foundation all reduce how much the clay moves.

When movement has already caused damage, an inspection can show whether support or lifting is needed. If you are seeing cracks that seem to be growing, it is worth having a professional look at what the soil and foundation are doing.