If you notice a crack in your home’s foundation, you might wonder how it developed. This area is designed to be strong, but there are still ways it can sustain damage. While waiting for foundation repair, use this guide to learn more about common causes of cracking so you can prevent it in the future.

Why Is My Home’s Foundation Cracked?

1. Soil Shifting

Weather patterns can significantly affect your yard. Rainy periods, for example, can oversaturate the soil around your home, causing shifting and erosion.

If the soil is made of clay, it could expand and contract further when the temperatures fluctuate. Over time, the constant movement can lead to cracks.

2. Root Damage

Trees planted around the house can also cause issues. Large species with expansive root systems, such as evergreen and poplar trees, can penetrate pipes and concrete.

To keep your home safe, choose maples, willows, American Elms, and other species with compact roots for your yard. However, it’s best to landscape farther away to avoid the issue altogether. Trees taller than 70 feet should go at least 20 feet away, while those under 30 feet tall can be 8 to 10 feet from the foundation.

3. Drainage Issues

If your home’s downspouts are not angled away from the foundation, water will soak into the soil around your home, leading to the issues outlined in the first section.

To see if you have drainage issues, look for gushing gutters whenever it rains, water stains in the basement, or flaking paint on exterior walls. To prevent gutter and downspout issues, clean and inspect them in the spring and fall.

When you need quality foundation repair, turn to Crackstoppers Foundation Repair & Waterproofing in St. Charles, MO. For more than 20 years, this family-owned company has provided waterproofing, drainage, and foundation stabilization services to homeowners. They are fully insured and back their labor with lifetime guarantees, so you can rest assured that your home will remain structurally sound. Call (636) 262-8458 for a free estimate, learn more about foundation repair online.