How a Drought Can Affect Your Foundation in Denver, Colorado
Living in the Denver metro area, we’re no strangers to changing weather conditions. Between heavy snows in the winter and hot, dry summers, the soil beneath our homes experiences constant cycles of expansion and contraction. But during times of prolonged drought, these changes can be especially damaging to your home’s foundation.
The Role of Colorado’s Expansive Soils
Much of the Front Range, including Denver, sits on clay-heavy soils. These soils are known as “expansive soils” because they swell when wet and shrink when dry. When drought conditions persist, the soil around your foundation loses moisture and contracts. This creates gaps and voids beneath your home, leaving your foundation without the consistent support it needs.
Common Signs of Drought-Related Foundation Issues
When the ground dries out and pulls away from your foundation, you may notice:
Cracks forming in interior walls, ceilings, or brickwork
Doors and windows that stick or won’t close properly
Uneven or sloping floors
Gaps between your home’s foundation and the surrounding soil
These issues can worsen if sudden rain follows a drought, as the dried-out soil won’t absorb water evenly, leading to uneven pressure against your foundation.
Why Denver Homes Are at Higher Risk
Denver’s semi-arid climate and fluctuating weather patterns make local homes especially vulnerable. A hot summer with little rain can dry the soil quickly, while sudden storms or snowmelt can cause rapid re-expansion. This back-and-forth puts stress on your foundation year after year.
Protecting Your Foundation During Drought
The good news is, there are steps homeowners can take to minimize damage:
Maintain consistent moisture around your foundation by watering the soil during prolonged dry spells.
Inspect gutters and downspouts to ensure water drains properly and doesn’t pool near your home after a storm.
Schedule regular foundation inspections if you notice warning signs of shifting.
Final Thoughts
In Denver, drought is more than just a landscaping concern—it can directly impact the stability of your home. Staying proactive with foundation care during dry periods can save you from costly repairs down the road.