Your Foundation Feels the Effects of Changing Weather Too
When temperatures start dropping, most homeowners think about preparing their heating systems, protecting outdoor plumbing, and keeping cold air out of the house.
But what about the foundation?
Your home’s foundation is in direct contact with the soil surrounding and supporting it. As temperatures and moisture levels change throughout the winter, the soil can expand, contract, and shift. These changes can sometimes affect the foundation and the structure above it.
While the Triad area of North Carolina does not experience the prolonged freezing conditions found in some parts of the country, winter weather can still have an impact on your home.
Here are a few things to understand.
1. Freezing and Thawing Can Affect Soil
When temperatures drop below freezing, moisture in the soil can freeze and expand. As temperatures rise again, that frozen moisture thaws.
This repeated freezing and thawing can cause changes in soil conditions around your foundation. Depending on the soil type, moisture levels, and drainage conditions, these changes may contribute to movement around the home.
North Carolina’s clay soils can be particularly sensitive to moisture changes. Clay soil expands when it absorbs water and shrinks as it dries. These changes can affect the support beneath your foundation over time.
2. Water Can Increase Pressure Against Foundation Walls
Winter rain can create just as many concerns as summer storms.
When water collects in the soil surrounding your basement or foundation walls, it can create additional pressure against those walls. This is known as hydrostatic pressure.
Over time, excessive pressure can contribute to water entering through foundation cracks and joints. In some situations, it can also contribute to foundation walls bowing or moving inward.
Proper drainage is important throughout the year, not just during warmer months.
Make sure your gutters are clear, downspouts direct water away from the home, and the ground around your foundation slopes away from the structure.
3. Existing Foundation Cracks May Become More Noticeable
Temperature changes can cause building materials to expand and contract. This natural movement can sometimes make existing cracks more noticeable.
Some cracks are cosmetic or related to normal settling. Others may indicate foundation movement or allow water to enter the home.
Pay attention to cracks that are changing in size, new cracks appearing around doors and windows, or stair step cracks in brick and block walls.
Long horizontal cracks in foundation walls deserve particular attention because they can indicate pressure against the wall and possible structural movement.
If you notice a wall that appears to be bowing inward, do not assume it is simply a result of colder weather. Have it evaluated.
4. Moisture Problems Do Not Disappear in Winter
It is easy to assume that cooler temperatures will take care of crawl space moisture. Unfortunately, that is not always the case.
Water can continue entering through foundation walls, plumbing leaks, poor drainage, or groundwater. Damp soil and excessive humidity can remain problems even when outdoor temperatures are low.
Persistent moisture can affect insulation, contribute to wood deterioration, and create conditions that support mold growth.
If your crawl space has a vapor barrier, drainage system, sump pump, or dehumidifier, make sure everything is in good working condition.
5. Changes in Soil Can Affect the Structure Above
Your foundation supports the entire structure of your home. When the soil beneath it changes, the effects may become noticeable inside.
Some signs of possible foundation movement include:
- Floors that begin to slope or feel uneven
- Doors or windows that suddenly stick
- New cracks in drywall or ceilings
- Gaps around window or door frames
- Stair step cracks in exterior brick or block
- Cracks that continue to grow or change
These symptoms can have several causes, and not every one indicates a serious structural problem. However, if you notice multiple changes or symptoms that are getting worse, it is worth having them evaluated.
What Can You Do to Protect Your Foundation This Winter?
A few simple maintenance steps can help reduce unnecessary moisture around your home and keep you aware of potential concerns.
Keep gutters clean. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and collect near the foundation.
Extend downspouts. Make sure roof water is discharged away from the home rather than directly beside the foundation.
Check the grading. Look for low areas where water may collect near the house.
Watch for standing water. If water regularly collects in your yard or crawl space, investigate the source.
Monitor existing cracks. Take photos and note any changes in their appearance.
Check your crawl space equipment. Make sure sump pumps and dehumidifiers are operating properly.
These steps will not prevent every foundation problem, but they can help you identify conditions that may need attention.
Do Not Ignore Changes Just Because It Is Winter
Foundation concerns do not follow a seasonal schedule. If you notice a new crack, uneven floors, water intrusion, or a wall that appears to be moving, you do not need to wait until spring to find out what is happening.
The right solution depends on the underlying cause. It may involve drainage improvements, waterproofing, structural support, or another repair designed for your home’s specific conditions.
At Dunwell Structural Repair, we look beyond the visible symptoms to understand what may be happening beneath and around your home.
Keep Your Foundation in Good Shape All Year
Your foundation works every day to support your home, regardless of the weather. Paying attention to drainage, moisture, and changes around your home can help you catch potential concerns and understand when professional guidance is needed.
Dunwell Structural Repair offers free inspections to help homeowners identify foundation, drainage, and crawl space concerns. We will explain what we find and discuss practical solutions when repairs are needed.
Call 336.867.0298 or visit dunwellsr.com to schedule your free inspection.