Seattle, Washington – Is your Washington home physically moving this spring? As winter gives way to persistent spring rain, homeowners in Seattle, Spokane, and surrounding communities are often the first to notice changes that raise concern.
Across Washington, spring brings prolonged rainfall and rising groundwater levels, particularly west of the Cascades. As soil becomes saturated, it can soften, shift, or lose strength, changing how foundations are supported. In hilly or coastal areas, this seasonal transition can increase the risk of soil movement beneath homes.
According to building and structural experts, Washington’s wet climate plays a major role in springtime foundation movement. Saturated soil can place lateral pressure on foundation walls, while repeated wet–dry cycles can weaken soil structure over time. In eastern Washington and higher elevations, freeze–thaw cycles combined with snowmelt can further contribute to movement.
Homeowners may notice doors or windows suddenly sticking, new cracks forming in drywall or exterior masonry, or floors that feel uneven. These warning signs often appear after weeks of steady rain or following heavy storms.
Experts note that some seasonal movement is expected and does not always indicate structural damage. However, spring is also when underlying foundation, drainage, or slope-stability issues are most likely to surface.
Warning signs that should not be ignored include cracks that continue widening, doors and windows that remain misaligned, visible bowing in foundation walls, gaps forming along exterior siding or masonry, or water pooling near the home after rain. In hillside areas, visible soil movement or slumping near the foundation should be evaluated promptly.
To reduce risk, homeowners are encouraged to manage water carefully. Keeping gutters and drains clear, directing downspouts away from foundations, and ensuring proper grading or slope drainage can help limit soil saturation. Annual inspections can help determine whether movement is seasonal or structural.
For first-time homeowners and buyers entering Washington’s spring housing market, foundation movement is often the first visible sign that conditions beneath a home have changed. Experts emphasize that early attention can help prevent minor seasonal shifting from developing into costly long-term damage.
