Handy Andy's | Expert Fencing Company in Lathrop, CA

The dry, expansive clay soil in Lathrop shrinks and cracks during hot months, causing the ground to pull away from fence posts. This loss of lateral support allows posts to shift and lean over time, especially after heavy rainfall when the soil rehydrates and expands unevenly.

Look for visible gaps between the post and the soil, a noticeable tilt in the fence line, or posts that wiggle when pushed. In Lathrop, you may also see cracks in the soil around the base of posts during summer. If the gate drags or doesn't latch properly, that's another clear sign.

Handy Andy's recommends removing the affected posts, digging deeper holes (at least 3 feet), and setting them in concrete with a gravel base for drainage. We also use soil stabilizers around the post to reduce movement from dry soil shrinkage. This method provides long-term stability specific to Lathrop's conditions.