In the realm of home maintenance, it’s not just extreme weather that can cause damage. Normal weather and seasonal changes can also have a significant impact. Your home’s foundation is one area particularly vulnerable to seasonal changes. Here is a look at how weather conditions and seasonal fluctuations can affect your foundation.
Your Foundation and Soil Changes
The earth around your foundation expands and contracts based on the current season and weather conditions. Cycles of expansion and contraction can damage your foundation and, consequently, the rest of your home.
The Impact of Contracting Soil
In warmer seasons and drier conditions, the soil around your home retains less water. The missing water content means that the soil takes up less space and exerts less pressure on your foundation.
Decreased pressure can cause foundation “settling.” This means that your foundation drops slightly, causing stress on the foundation and the rest of the house.
Soil Expansion and Your Foundation
Soil typically expands during freezing temperatures, rainy seasons, and other conditions, such as flooding or snowmelt, that cause water to enter the soil. Expanding soil, just like contracting soil, can lead to major foundation damage.
Freezing temperatures often extend below ground, causing underground water to freeze. When water freezes, it expands, occupying more space and exerting additional pressure on your foundation. Similarly, rain, flooding, and snowmelt introduce more water to the soil, resulting in increased pressure.
While the absence of water can cause foundation settling, ice and extra water can cause foundation heaving. Additional pressure on the foundation forces it inward, often causing the foundation to “heave” upward.
Foundation Damage Signs
Both foundation settling and heaving cause stress to your foundation and the structure of your home. Your foundation may be damaged if you notice:
- Excess moisture in your basement
- Doors or windows that don’t open or close properly
- Noticeable cracks in your ceilings, walls, or foundation
- Walls that are tilted or have sections that are slightly bowed or caved
To identify and fix foundation problems, you can start by contacting your local basement waterproofing contractor. While it may not be possible to avoid all weather-related foundation damage, there are always steps to minimize and prevent ongoing issues.
For foundation repair assistance in Rochester or the surrounding area, call BelowDry Basement Waterproofing today. We are a family-owned company with over 15 years of experience diagnosing and treating foundation damage. We are fully licensed and insured to provide you with peace of mind. We provide outstanding customer care, comprehensive basement solutions, and 24/7 emergency service. BelowDry Basement Waterproofing—solving your wet basement problem for good!