Gulf Coast clay expands wet and shrinks dry; the slab rides those cycles. Movement is normal — differential movement is the problem, and moisture consistency is the prevention.
In dry stretches, run soaker hoses around the perimeter on a schedule (evening, modest duration) to keep soil moisture even. Keep grading sloped away, gutters functional, and trees of thirsty species planted far from the slab — roots dry soil unevenly.
Hairline cosmetic cracks happen. Watch instead for doors going out of square seasonally, stair-step brick cracks, and separation at frames. Pattern and progression matter more than any single crack.
Pier quotes vary widely — get multiple bids, ask pier type and depth, and insist on transferable warranties (Houston buyers will ask). Post-repair, the watering discipline matters more, not less.
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