Foundation Cracks in Winter: What to Do When You Notice a Problem

Winter brings freezing temperatures, snow, and ice—but it can also bring unexpected damage to your home’s foundation. It’s not uncommon for foundation cracks to appear or worsen during the winter months due to the freeze-thaw cycle. If you notice a crack in your foundation, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage.

Why Do Foundations Crack in Winter?

Melting Snow Leads to Too Much Moisture

Foundation cracks are more likely to develop or worsen in winter due to temperature fluctuations. As the ground freezes and thaws, it expands and contracts, putting pressure on your foundation. This is known as frost heave. Additionally, water can seep into even the smallest cracks, freeze, and expand, causing the cracks to grow larger. These shifts can lead to cracks forming in both the foundation and basement walls, creating a path for water to enter your home.

If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, the weight of snow on the ground around your home can add pressure, contributing to potential foundation damage. In some cases, cracks may even appear suddenly after a particularly cold spell.

Sealed Older Basement
Sealed Newer Basement

Steps to Take If You Discover a Crack

First and foremost, it’s important not to panic if you notice a foundation crack during winter. However, ignoring it is also not an option. Small cracks can quickly turn into big problems if left untreated. Here’s what you should do:

Sump pump designed to pump water out of your home incase leaks or floods breakthrough your foundation.
Sump pump designed to pump water out of your home incase leaks or floods breakthrough your foundation.

Inspect the Crack

Take note of the size and location of the crack. Hairline cracks are common and may not be an immediate cause for concern, but larger cracks (more than 1/8 inch wide) should be addressed right away. Vertical cracks are typically less serious than horizontal or diagonal ones, which can indicate more significant structural problems.

Check for Moisture

If you notice any signs of moisture, such as water stains, dampness, or puddles, it’s a sign that the crack may be allowing water into your basement. In this case, immediate action is necessary to prevent further water damage.

Call Basement Solutions, LLC.

While temporary fixes like applying caulk or sealant can help in the short term, it’s always best to have a professional assess the situation. At Basement Solutions, we can evaluate the severity of the crack and provide expert repairs to protect your foundation for the rest of the winter.

How Basement Solutions Can Help

Don’t let a small crack become a bigger problem. Basement Solutions offers comprehensive foundation crack repair services that are designed to last through the harshest winter conditions. Our team will assess the damage, make necessary repairs, and seal any cracks to prevent future water infiltration.

Call For Repairs Today

If you’ve noticed a crack in your foundation, reach out to us today to schedule an inspection. It’s never too late to safeguard your home against winter’s toll on your foundation.

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