Foundations are vulnerable to changes in the soil resulting from seasonal changes. Although shifts in the weather do not cause foundation damage overnight, they tend to take their toll gradually. Dry seasons may cause soil shrinkage, while wet seasons may lead to soil expansion and water damage. Luckily, several methods lower the risk of foundation damage caused by environmental factors. In this blog, we will highlight various preventive measures to help protect your foundations from seasonal changes.
The Effects of Changing Seasons on Foundations
Every season brings about various environmental changes, like shifts in temperatures and moisture levels, which can potentially affect the stability of your home’s foundation. Understanding the influences of these seasonal changes on your foundation is essential for maintaining its safety and longevity.
1. Concrete Expansion and Contraction
With the rise and fall of temperatures, the soil around your foundation expands and contracts, respectively. These changes can put pressure on your foundation walls, which can cause cracking or bowing walls. As the soil shrinks, it may leave gaps and voids around your foundation, which can cause uneven settlement or sinking.
2. Excess Water
During wet months, the seasonal rainfall or melting snow saturates the soil with excess water. When the soil has high water content, it exerts pressure on the foundation walls, resulting in severe structural damage such as cracks and bowing walls.
3. Drying Out
When the temperature is high, the soil around your home loses moisture and shrinks. This shrinkage creates gaps or voids in the ground, causing the foundation to settle unevenly and form cracks.
4. Clogged Gutters and Downspouts
During heavy weather or seasonal changes, your gutters and downspouts may become clogged by leaves and dirt. It’s important to keep gutters and downspouts clear so that they can effectively direct water away from your home.
How to Prevent Seasonal Foundation Damage?
Implementing efficient preventive measures can help minimize the risks of foundation damage during seasonal changes and maintain your home’s stability and integrity. Here are some measures you can take to prevent seasonal foundation damage.
1. Interior Drainage Systems
To waterproof your foundation, you must install an interior drainage system, which includes installing a sump pump. A sump pump is a motorized pump designed to collect and direct excess water out of your home and away from your foundation. This pump automatically activates and channels water out through the discharge line. An effective interior drainage system not only prevents flooding but also reduces hydrostatic pressure, lowering the risk of bowing foundation walls.
2. Proper Gutter Systems
A gutter system helps protect your foundation from water damage. It collects the rainwater running through your roof and channels it away from the foundation. Additionally, installing extended downspouts helps deal with the rainwater more efficiently.
3. Ground Sloping or Grading
Proper grading prevents water from pooling around the foundation by directing water away from your home. Your home must have positive grading, with the landscape sloping away from the foundation. This reduces the risk of water damage and soil erosion.
4. Fix Cracks
Cracks are one of the common sources of water intrusion in foundations. So, regular inspection is essential to prevent crack formation. If you notice diagonal, stairstep, or large cracks, you may need foundation repair to prevent flooding or failing walls.
5. Fix Leaky Pipes
Frequent leaks in your basement or crawl space can lead to water-related problems like mold growth, cracks, and wood rot. To prevent moisture from building up and causing damage over time, repair the leaky pipes. Since pipes tend to deteriorate over time, regular inspection and repair are necessary to keep them in good condition.
Hire Foundation Contractors to Fix Seasonal Foundation Damage
Preventing seasonal foundation damage involves a combination of various preventive methods, such as drainage and gutter system installation. To protect your home from foundation issues year-round, contact Lamunyon Dry Out & Foundation Repair. We have the right resources and expertise to help you deal with foundation damage and maintain your home long-term.
