19 Dec Understanding the Effects of Cold Weather on Foundation Stability
We’ve already had freezing weather this winter, and there’s likely to be plenty more before spring starts to set in. While we might be thinking about heating our homes, de-icing our cars and salting our paths, how many of us have time to consider the effect the winter weather is having on our home’s foundations?
This should be a priority, though. After all, if the foundations aren’t stable, our home can’t be the safe place we expect. So what exactly are the effects of cold weather on foundation stability? And how can we counter them?
The Effects of the Freeze-Thaw Cycle
Do you know what type of soil your home is built on? This could have a significant effect on how well the foundations stand up to the freeze-thaw cycle in cold weather.
When the water in the soil freezes, its expansion puts pressure on the foundations. The subsequent thaw then makes the soil contract, and the foundations are likely to settle down, potentially causing subsidence.
Easily draining soils, such as anything sandy, are less likely to be affected by this issue — although even these can get waterlogged in bad conditions. Soils that retain water, on the other hand, like clay, will almost certainly suffer from these effects in cold weather.
The problem can be reduced if the foundations extend down below the frost line — typically around 450 mm, though it can vary, depending on where you live. Installing thermal insulation in the foundations can also help.
The Effects of Frost Heave
When the ground around the foundations freezes, so that water turns to ice, there’s an increase in volume of around 9%. This makes the soil heave upwards and, besides playing a part in the freeze-thaw cycle, it can put pressure directly on the foundations.
Frost heave can weaken your foundations’ structural integrity, especially if they’re too shallow. You can end up with cracks in walls, ceilings and floors, as well as doors and windows looking wonky and floors becoming uneven.
Frost heave can be reduced with various soil stabilising techniques. These include lime treatment or replacing the soil with a type less vulnerable to frost heave.
Water Management Issues
The problems of cold weather for foundations are caused by the water in the soil freezing. It stands to reason, then, that the less water there is, the less danger your foundations will be in.
If the drainage isn’t sufficient, water can pool around your foundations, and this is likely to freeze in cold weather. That can cause cracking or bowing in the foundation walls, allowing water access through the cracks as it melts.
If the existing drainage isn’t doing its job properly, there are several ways of boosting it. You might install French drains or a sump pump, for example. Alternatively, you could have the surroundings landscaped to make it easier for water to run away.
Keep Your Foundations Maintained
Issues like foundation depth, insulation and drainage should ideally be addressed when a property is built. If this hasn’t been done, though, a contractor specialising in foundations can correct the problems.
The reality, though, is that cold weather can eventually wear down even the best-constructed foundations. That’s why it’s important to have your foundations inspected regularly and any repairs carried out before problems become serious.
If you’re looking for piling contractors in London, the surrounding areas or South East England, you can contact U&M to discuss your needs.