Winter Cold Causes Basement Foundation Cracks to Grow
Those of us who live in the areas of the US with harsh winters are used to the cold, but your foundation isn’t. When temperatures are freezing, this can affect a home’s foundation.
It is important to be aware of your home foundation problems.
When the temperature drops, the soil all around us starts to freeze. This frozen soil has the ability to make previously minor foundation cracks much more significant. (Understanding Block Foundation Cracks)
When the water that is in the soil freezes, frost heaves happen.
What is a frost heave and how does it cause foundation problems?
A frost heave is when the soil swells upwards, due to freezing conditions. This means that the soil is pushing against your foundation, creating pressure on your foundation walls. This can cause prior damage to become much worse, or new cracks to form.
Each freeze/thaw cycle changes the size and shape of basement cracks. Winter cold is brutal on your basement. Concrete basement walls are very common. Concrete has little pores throughout its composition. These pores allow moisture to enter the concrete. When water freezes, it expands. When water in a concrete block freezes, it can cause foundation cracks.
“The two main culprits for damage to your foundation during winter are frost heaves and frozen pipes.”
How your foundation handles the change from spring to winter
As we mentioned in the blog “What is the best time of year to fix your foundation?”, when spring comes, so does the rain. Heavy rain can cause new cracks. After we get out of the cold season and enter the rainy season, this seems to be when foundation problems are most apparent.
Heavy rain can cause new cracks or make existing ones more noticeable via water damage.
As we are shifting from winter to spring, pay attention to your home’s health and watch out for any signs of foundation problems. Call us if you find anything worrisome or if you need help figuring out what to look for!
My Foundation Repairs Can Help!
My Foundation Repairs has a network of expert contractors who can inspect your foundation and offer solutions for your basement issues. Don’t let this winter’s predicted volatility further damage your foundation. Contact My Foundation Repairs today!