Drought and Foundation Damage in Montgomery, AL
Drought is a recurring challenge for homeowners in Montgomery, Alabama. Extended dry
periods cause the clay soil to shrink dramatically, leading to foundation settlement.
Understanding drought foundation damage helps you take protective measures and know
when to call for professional help.
How Drought Causes Foundation Damage
During normal rainfall, the clay soil beneath your foundation remains relatively stable. But when
a drought lasts for weeks or months, evaporation exceeds precipitation, and the soil begins to
dry out. Clay particles lose their bound water, and the soil volume decreases. As the soil
shrinks, it pulls away from the foundation, creating voids. The foundation, no longer fully
supported, sinks into the voids. This settlement can be uneven, with some areas sinking more
than others. Montgomery Foundation Repair Co has measured settlement of 2 inches or more
during severe droughts.
Signs of Drought‑Related Settlement
Watch for these signs during or after a drought. Floors that were level become noticeably
sloped. Doors that closed easily now stick or drag. New cracks appear in drywall, especially
above door frames. Exterior brick may develop stair‑step cracks. In severe cases, you may see
a gap between the foundation and the soil. The yard may have deep, wide cracks. Unlike
normal seasonal movement, drought settlement can be permanent because the soil may not
fully rehydrate to its original volume. Montgomery Foundation Repair Co recommends an
inspection if you see multiple signs.
Mitigating Drought Damage
You cannot prevent drought, but you can reduce its impact. Install soaker hoses around the
perimeter (12‑18 inches from the foundation) and water during dry periods. Mulch the area to
retain moisture. Fix any leaking sprinklers or hoses that could cause uneven moisture. Ensure
gutters and downspouts direct water away from the foundation so that any available water is
not wasted. For homes with a history of settlement, consider installing an automatic drip
irrigation system around the foundation. Montgomery Foundation Repair Co can design a
watering plan tailored to your soil.
Repairs After Drought
If drought has caused your foundation to settle, the repair is the same as for any settlement:
steel push piers or helical piers. Unlike temporary measures like watering, piers permanently
transfer the load to deep, stable soil that does not shrink during drought. After piers are
installed, you can stop worrying about future droughts. Montgomery Foundation Repair Co has
repaired hundreds of foundations affected by Montgomery’s periodic droughts, including the
severe droughts of 2008, 2016, and 2023. Our piers are designed to handle the region’s climate
extremes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my foundation return to normal after rain returns?
Not necessarily. The soil may rehydrate and swell, partially lifting the foundation, but it rarely returns to its original level. Repeated drought cycles cause permanent, cumulative settlement.
How much water should I apply during a drought?
About 1 inch of water per week, applied slowly via soaker hoses. Measure with a rain gauge placed near the foundation. Do not overwater; saturated clay can also cause heaving.
Does my homeowners insurance cover drought settlement?
No. Insurance policies specifically exclude earth movement, including settlement from drought. You are responsible for repair costs.
Can trees worsen drought damage?
Yes. Trees extract moisture from deep in the soil, which can accelerate shrinkage. Keep trees at least 20 feet from the foundation, or install a root barrier. Montgomery Foundation Repair Co can advise on tree placement.
Need a free foundation inspection from a licensed Montgomery contractor?
Call (334) 835-5928