How does the weather affect your foundation?

The weather can greatly affect your foundation. Each time that the ground freezes, it contracts and pulls away from the foundation. This creates a space between your foundation and the soil.

The soil doesn’t just contract when it freezes. It also pulls away from the foundation when it is very dry. During heavy rainfall, the ground absorbs large amounts of water, causing the pressure in the soil to increase. This water pressure pushes against the foundation, and could cause erosion. When the water evaporates, the soil contracts away from the foundation.

The retracted soil makes it easy for rain to access the foundation. If there is erosion or cracks from the increased water pressure caused by other weather events, then the rainwater can easily flow through the foundation and into the basement.

The expanding and contracting of the soil is natural. As we experience periods of draught and seasons of heavy rainfall, the soil expands and contracts repeatedly. Over time, this movement can take a toll on your foundation. Not only can water leak in, but the foundation walls may bow under pressure and compromise the integrity of the home’s support.

Thankfully, there is a solution to bowing and cracking foundation walls. Call 1-800-638-7048 or go online for your FREE, no obligation estimate.