With the warm seasons just around the corner, many Quebecers are jumping for joy!
On the other hand, the arrival of spring also rhymes with the arrival of new responsibilities for the maintenance of one’s home.
In addition to major cleaning, did you know that it is advisable to inspect your foundation in the spring ?
All this, to assess the damage left by winter on the foundation of our homes.
In fact, spring and fall are the two most critical periods for walls and flooring, due to the high temperature differences experienced in Quebec.
Without a proper inspection of your foundations, unnoticed damage can worsen winter after winter and significantly increase the bill!
Spring Foundation Inspection: What Are the Most Common Damages?
Building structures are subject to change due to cold, melting snow, and changes in temperature.
Crumbling of the concrete on your foundation
One of the worst enemies of concrete is the freeze-thaw cycle that we encounter every winter.
You can recognize the crumbling of the concrete by the presence of dust and rubble nearby. The concrete then becomes brittle and loses its structural strength.
Cracks that form along the foundation
Cracks in the foundation are easily recognizable: do you see cracks or crevices in the walls or foundation?
While we tend to downplay the importance of small crevices, it is safer to have them repaired as soon as they appear.
Water infiltration detected during inspection
In the spring, water infiltration is common in the basements of homes, due to melting snow. Water seeps into the soil and can enter basements.
This is one of the reasons why it is wise to seek the assistance of professionals to conduct a thorough inspection of your home.
During this round of verification, an expert will be able to carry out a water test in order to unmask any infiltration afflicting your foundation.
If left unrepaired, they can create mould that can be harmful to health. This makes it all the more important to take care of it!
To avoid water infiltration and humidity, checking or installing a French drain is a recommended solution, as it reduces the accumulation of water against the foundation of your home.
The Role of Professionals in the Spring Inspection of Your Foundation
During an inspection of your foundation, professionals can answer the following questions:
- What is the state of your foundation?
- Is a partial or complete refurbishment necessary?
- What types of repairs can be undertaken?
- What strategies can be put in place to prevent this type of damage the following year?
In short
Freeze-thaw cycles pose significant risks to your surfaces. In the spring, it is important to plan a thorough inspection of your foundation, but also of your facades or any other element that has suffered the inconveniences of winter.
If you have any doubts, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Our experts will advise you on the condition of your foundations and on the repairs to be made to maintain a healthy and sustainable home!
Need a Crack Repair Expert?
If you notice cracks on your foundation, it is important to act quickly. Fissure Expert offers professional foundation crack injection services throughout Quebec. Call a certified foundation crack contractor for a free estimate. We serve Sherbrooke, Longueuil, Chicoutimi and many other cities.