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 foundation repair can be performed during winter.
Foundation Repair: Can it Be Implemented in Winter?
Despite the cold, foundation repair services during the winter are not only possible but are also highly effective. The unique conditions of the Canadian winter sometimes offer advantages for certain types of foundation work. It is important to ensure your home remains safe and secure no matter the season.
Debunking Winter Foundation Repair Myths
Here are three common myths about winter foundation repair:
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’ foundation repair approach allows us to complete repairs, even in the middle of winter.
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, foundation repairs can be more effective in the winter because of 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 continue providing homeowners with custom-engineered systems tailored to their unique needs. We dedicate time and attention to your foundation repair needs, no matter the season.
Contact a professional when you notice foundation issues, especially during the winter. Promptly contacting a professional prevents further damage caused by seasonal challenges.
Causes of Foundation Problems
Winter can cause many foundation problems; year after year, these issues will worsen, requiring costly repair if unaddressed. Here are the common causes of foundation issues:
Freeze-Thaw Cycles
Repeated freeze-thaw cycles put pressure on foundations. This gets even worse when it occurs in a place where chinooks happen often, like Calgary. When the snow melts, the run-off seeps into the cracks and pores of your foundation. Once it freezes again, this water expands and widens foundation cracks.
Frost Heave
Frost heave occurs when water in the soil freezes and expands, lifting the soil and anything resting on it (like the foundation). This movement is uneven and 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 can push 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 the soil to shift. This movement can put stress on the foundation, leading to cracks, shifts in alignment, and other structural issues.
Winter brings cold weather and snow, which can also cause foundation problems. Avoid stress and costly repairs by contacting a professional for a free foundation inspection. Regardless of the temperature, Groundworks can provide a solution.
How to Tell if You Have a Foundation Problem
There are many warning signs around your home to help you determine if you have a foundation problem. These 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 any of these signs in your home, you most likely have a foundation problem. Don’t wait until winter passes; contact us as soon as possible for a FREE foundation inspection.
Trust Groundworks for Professional Foundation Repair in Any Season
Groundworks’ foundation repair products ensure a reliable solution for homeowners. Our products endure the extreme weather conditions that Canada presents. A cold Canadian winter will not prevent us from delivering a permanent solution for your foundation problems. We only install products in which we have complete confidence.
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.
