By Talia Kaplan

St. Louis, MO (KSDK) - The drought is causing some problems for homeowners. Foundation problems are popping up across the area.

The last time it rained some people may have noticed a few leaks in their home.

John Shea, a contractor with Callier Thompson Shea Construction & Design, says if you have never had a leak before the problem could be a direct result of the drought.

"Basically you can put your hand down between the water and the dirt. The water will run down the foundation and that's when you get leaks because the clay is pulled away from the foundation and water can get in through all the cracks," said Shea.

He says the clay pulls away from the home because it has dried up in the drought.

It not only lets water in but if the problem gets bad enough, the footing of a home can fall causing major cracks in the foundation.

But there are things people can do to prevent this from happening.

"Get a soaker hose out, put it about two feet away from your foundation, and turn it on. Turn it on tonight on this side of the house, then go all the way around your house. It is going to take four days and let it run overnight. That's going to get water around your foundation. It will get the clay to go back against the house, and you may stop yourself from having water problems inside the house which may save you thousands of dollars," said Shea.

He suggests using the sprinkler method to avoid cracks. But if you do suspect major foundation problems it's probably time to call a contractor.

 

KSDK