Winter will be here soon enough. As the temperatures drop, it’s essential to consider the state of your home’s foundation. If you have cracks in your foundation, now is the time to fix them. But why do foundation cracks get worse in winter?
Why Foundation Cracks Can Get Worse in Winter
Cold weather can damage your foundation through a process known as the freeze-thaw cycle.
This cycle causes your foundation to expand with ice and can contract when that ice or snow melts. Any small cracks can lead to significant foundation issues. Additionally, erosion can be a problem, especially with the ground surrounding the concrete foundation.
Improperly placed gutters, missing sections, or undersized gutters can create erosion issues.
Water absorbed into the concrete can push through, leading to a wet basement and eventually causing rotting and mold that spreads throughout your home.
Signs of Foundation Settlement
During winter, you might notice several signs of foundation settlement. You might find issues such as:
- Floors starting to settle and becoming uneven
- Bowed or leaning basement walls
- Cracks in foundation walls
- Interior plaster walls or drywall cracking
- Chimney tilting or leaning
- Foundation starting to sink
- Cracks appearing in basement walls
Should You Fix Foundation Cracks Yourself?
It’s not recommended to fix foundation cracks yourself. Repairing your home’s foundation takes time and money, and doing it improperly can affect your home’s value. It’s best to leave this job to professionals who have the expertise to ensure it’s done correctly.
Don’t let winter catch you off guard. Take action now to protect your home’s foundation from the harsh weather ahead.
Get the cracks in your foundation taken care of before winter settles in. Contact BDB Waterproofing today if you need help with foundation cracks or foundation settlement.
