Can Foundation Repair Be Done in the Winter?
A Canadian winter consists of lots of snow and cold weather. While many might assume that foundation repair is best left for the warmer months, the truth may surprise you. This page explains whether winter is the best time for foundation repairs.
Foundation Repair: Can it Be Implemented in Winter?
Despite the cold, winter home foundation repair services are both possible and highly effective. The unique conditions of the Canadian winter sometimes offer advantages for certain types of foundation work. It is vital to ensure your home remains safe and secure, regardless of the season.
Debunking Winter Foundation Repair Myths
Here are three common winter foundation repair myths:
Myth #1: Frozen Ground: Repairs Can’t Be Done
It is a common misconception that foundation repair cannot be done when the ground freezes. However, Groundworks’ approach allows us to complete repairs during the winter, making it the best time of year to do foundation repair in some cases.
Myth #2: Installation is Less Effective if the Ground is Frozen
Another misconception is that foundation repair solutions are less effective when the ground is frozen. Surprisingly, the best time of year to do foundation repair is often in the winter due to the stable soil conditions. It becomes easier to assess and address foundation issues without the complications of shifting ground.
Myth #3: Contractors Do Not Work Until Spring
At Groundworks, the hard work never stops! Whether it’s -40 or +40 degrees Celsius, we provide homeowners with custom-engineered systems tailored to their unique needs. We dedicate time and attention to your winter home foundation repair needs, regardless of the season.
Contact a Groundworks professional when you notice foundation issues, especially during the winter. Promptly addressing damage prevents further issues caused by seasonal challenges.
Causes of Foundation Problems
Winter can cause foundation problems; year after year, these issues worsen, requiring costly repairs if unaddressed. The common causes of foundation damage include:
Freeze-Thaw Cycles
Repeated freeze-thaw cycles place significant pressure on foundations, especially in areas with frequent chinooks, like Calgary. When snow melts, runoff seeps into cracks and pores in your foundation. As it refreezes, the water expands, further widening these cracks.
Frost Heave
Frost heave occurs when water in the soil freezes and expands, shifting the soil and the foundation. This uneven movement can cause foundation settlement or upheaval, resulting in cracks, bowing walls, and instability.
Moisture Intrusion
Melting snow and ice can saturate the soil around the foundation, increasing the hydrostatic pressure. This pressure pushes against the foundation walls and basement floors, causing cracks that may lead to water infiltration and basement flooding.
Ground Shifting
Frozen ground can contract and expand, causing soil shifts. This movement can stress the foundation, leading to cracks, misalignment, and other structural issues. Cold winter weather and snow also cause foundation problems. Avoid stress and expensive repairs by contacting a professional for a free foundation inspection. Regardless of the temperature, Groundworks can provide a solution.
How to Identify Foundation Problems
Identifying the early warning signs of foundation damage helps you address issues before the damage worsens. These signs include:
- Cracks in floors and walls
- Uneven or sloping floors
- Gaps around windows and doors
- Bowing or leaning walls
- Sticking doors and windows
If you notice problem signs in your home, you may have a foundation problem. Don’t wait until winter passes; winter home foundation repair services are available, so contact us for a FREE foundation inspection.
Trust Groundworks for Winter Home Foundation Repair
Groundworks’ foundation repair methods are built to withstand Canada’s extreme weather conditions and provide homeowners with a reliable solution. Winter is the best time for foundation repairs, as our products deliver a permanent solution regardless of the season.
Contact Groundworks today for your free inspection!
Foundation Repair FAQs
Slab foundations can be susceptible to cracking due to extreme temperature changes. Proper insulation and control joints can help mitigate this issue by allowing the concrete to expand and contract without causing significant damage.
Selling a home with foundation problems is possible, but you typically need to disclose the issues to potential buyers, which may lower the sale price. Repairing the foundation before selling often results in a better price.
Selling a home with foundation problems is possible, but you usually have to disclose the issues to potential buyers (which may lead to a lower sale price). Repairing the foundation before selling tends to get you a better price.
