You might not think of waterproofing until an issue arises. However, you can act to ensure your basement is water-proofed year-round. While leaks are more likely to occur in the early spring when the snow melts and frequent rainstorms begin, leaks can occur at almost any time of the year. Even if the ground is frozen, there is still potential for damages if you don’t act to take proper preventative measures.
Winter Packs an Invisible Punch
You’re not likely to imagine stunning snowflakes as a hazardous potential for water damage, but snow accumulations can melt quickly to leave you with a mess. There is a lot of water packed in the frozen heaps of snowfall. You are most susceptible to destruction from snow when temperatures warm rapidly, making the snow thaw faster than it can evaporate. The water seeps into the ground and makes its way into your foundation through cracks. This can lead to your entire basement flooding. The temperature change also affects the soil surrounding your home. Aside from the dirt getting wet, it will shrink and expand with changing temperatures. As it shrinks, there may be more room around your foundation walls for water to seep in.
Springtime Showers Bring Lots of Water
After the snow melts at the beginning of Spring, rain showers and storms become more frequent. Sometimes they are even a daily experience. With all the additional rainfall on top of the water accumulation from the melted snow, you have a recipe for disaster in terms of water damage. The soil won’t be able to absorb the water fast enough, so it will find its way through any nook and cranny it comes to, even if it’s the wall to your foundation. Spring is usually a busier time for waterproofing contractors, so try to make repairs ahead of time before an issue arises. Winter is the slowest period, so book early on.
Preventing Problems
Water damage can weaken your foundation, walls, and flooring and can ruin your belongings in the case of flooding. That’s why it’s important to take the steps to protect your property before it’s too late. You can make necessary repairs almost any time of year, so consult with your local professional. They can help you understand what is necessary to prevent any unwanted water events, from repairing cracks to installing drainage systems like sump pumps.
