Most people worry about water damage during spring and summer, when powerful rainstorms increase the risk of flooding. However, winter can be the most problematic time of the year for water intrusion into a home’s foundation and basement. If you have winter moisture problems in your basement, you are not alone. With 60% of homes in the US experiencing water intrusions, various year-round elements challenge the structures of most homes. The good news is that you can fix the source of winter water damage with vigilance, early detection, and quick response.
How does water get in the basement in winter?
If you have a basement or a structure built below grade and notice signs of moisture in winter, it often stems from the ground around your foundation being warmer than the frozen ground a few feet further away from your home. If we experience heavy rains, a big snow, or thaw, the water around your home has nowhere to go. It becomes trapped between the frozen ground and the warmer space around your foundation. The force of gravity on the water, called hydrostatic pressure, causes water to seep into cracks in the floor, walls, or mortar joints.
What are the signs of water damage in my basement?
If you notice any of the following, call a professional water damage restoration contractor right away:
