As summer temperatures continue to rise year after year, excessive heat is becoming more than just a discomfort — it’s a serious threat to your home. While many homeowners focus on staying cool indoors, few consider the impact of prolonged heat on the structure and plumbing of their homes.
24 Hour Flood Pros specializes in helping homeowners recover from damage, and we know all too well how heat-related issues can lead to expensive repairs if left unchecked.
Here’s what you need to know about the dangers of extreme heat and how it can impact your property from the ground up.
Cracking Foundations and Shifting Soil
High temperatures can lead to dry, compacted soil — especially in regions with clay-rich earth. As the ground dries out, it contracts and pulls away from your foundation. This creates gaps that can cause your foundation to settle unevenly, resulting in:
- Cracks in Walls and Floors
- Sticking Doors and Windows
- Uneven or Sloping Floors
These structural shifts can compromise the integrity of your home over time. Worse, when the ground rehydrates — such as during a sudden summer storm — it can expand quickly, putting pressure on already-weakened foundations.
Warped Wood and Compromised Building Materials
Heat doesn’t just impact the ground — it can directly affect the materials your home is built from. Prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can dry out and warp wooden framing, siding, and roofing. Warped materials may lead to:
- Gaps in Insulation or Siding
- Roof Leaks or Damaged Shingles
- Bowed Beams or Cracked Drywall
These changes might seem minor at first, but can develop into bigger problems if not addressed, especially when combined with moisture intrusion.
Damaged Plumbing Systems
While most people associate plumbing issues with freezing temperatures, excessive heat can be just as damaging. High heat can cause:
- Expansion of PVC and plastic pipes, potentially leading to cracks or bursts.
- Dried-out seals and fittings, increasing the risk of leaks.
- Increased water demand, straining your system and revealing hidden vulnerabilities.
Outdoor pipes and exposed plumbing are especially vulnerable. If your pipes are already under pressure, heat can push them over the edge.
Mold and Moisture Issues from Cooling Systems
Ironically, while heat itself is a threat, the way we try to cool our homes can introduce new risks. Air conditioning units and HVAC systems produce condensation, especially in humid environments. If that moisture isn’t properly drained or ventilated, it can cause:
- Mold and Mildew Growth
- Damage to Walls, Ceilings, and Flooring
- Musty Odors and Poor Indoor Air Quality
It’s essential to make sure your AC systems are serviced regularly and that condensation drains are clear and functioning properly.
Fire Hazards
Extreme heat increases the likelihood of electrical malfunctions and fire risks. Overheated appliances, aging electrical panels, or combustible materials exposed to the sun can all contribute to:
- House Fires
- Scorched Siding or Roofing
- Smoke and Water damage from Suppression Efforts
Even if a fire doesn’t start inside your home, wildfires are a growing concern in many hot, dry climates — putting nearby structures at risk.
Protecting Your Home in the Heat
To safeguard your home from heat-related damage, take these proactive steps:
- Inspect your foundation for new cracks or signs of shifting.
- Seal windows, doors, and siding to prevent heat intrusion and energy loss.
- Have your plumbing system inspected, especially outdoor or attic-exposed pipes.
- Maintain your HVAC system to avoid moisture issues.
- Clear away brush and debris around your home to reduce fire hazards.
When Disaster Strikes, We’re Here to Help
Even with the best preventative measures, excessive heat can catch homeowners off guard. If your home suffers water, mold, or structural damage, 24 Hour Flood Pros is here with fast, reliable emergency restoration services.
Our team is trained to handle heat-related damage and get your home back to safe, livable condition — day or night. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Protect your home, and call the pros who know how to handle the heat!
