Steps to Take to Make Sure Your Foundation is Winter Ready
/If you have had challenges with a wet basement during the rainier months of the year, you might think that winter would give you a break. But the truth is that in the Niagara Region and across St. Catharines, melting snow can be just as damaging to your home’s foundation – especially if there is a lot all at once.
Most homes in Niagara Falls and St. Catharines have foundations that are made of concrete which actually does a pretty good job of keeping your home dry. Concrete, however, is porous, so you still need to take steps to make sure your foundation is winter-ready. Otherwise, melting snow could lead to serious foundation issues such as cracking, heaving, and bowing walls.
The following are a few steps that you can take to protect your foundation this winter:
1. Take care of your gutters.
Yes, your gutters! Even though they are not located near your foundation, the job of your gutters is to divert water away from your foundation. If they are full of leaves and debris from the fall, they won’t do an adequate of diverting water when the snow on your roof begins to melt.
2. Removing snow from your roof.
Speaking of snow, in areas like Grimsby and Niagara where snowfall can be significant it is important to (carefully) remove it. Did you know that 10 inches of powder snow on your roof can melt into thousands of gallons of water? Even the cleanest of gutters can’t handle that job! So it’s important to remove it before it melts so that it won’t drench your foundation.
3. Landscaping and Drainage.
Your property immediately next to your foundation should be on a slight downward slope that diverts water away from your foundation. If this isn’t possible, then a drainage system should be installed to help keep your foundation dry. While you’re at it, ensure your window wells are clean of any debris such as lawn clippings and dead leaves.
4. Waterproofing.
Finally, if you have not yet waterproofed your basement you really should consider it. Foundation Fix which serves homeowners in Grimsby, Niagara Falls, and St. Catharines offers both interior and exterior waterproofing. The method that is best for you will depend on a number of factors such as your budget as well as the condition of the property that surrounds your home. Waterproofing is the best way to protect your home from melting snow this winter, which can cause water in the basement. And it’s more affordable than you might think!
Contact Foundation Fix for Waterproofing in the St. Catharines and Niagara Region
If you live in the St. Catharines or Niagara Region, you know how harsh our winters can be. When the area gets a sudden thaw after a heavy snowfall, it can wreak havoc on your home’s foundation. That’s why it’s important to do what you can do yourself such as keeping your roof clear of snow and maintaining your gutters. And for the highest level of protection, you should have your basement waterproofed.
Make sure your foundation is winter-ready. For an on-site inspection, contact Foundation Fix today.
