Checklist for Guarding Your Basement Against Spring Weather

Spring weather is notorious for big swings in many areas of our country. In fact, the Weather Channel has named spring as the most dynamic weather season of them all. Snow, thunderstorms, tornadoes, flooding, high winds are all common weather events in spring. With the variety of conditions, there are some important factors to consider when preparing your home for spring weather in order to avoid costly repairs later.

Water from Severe Storms and Melting Snow Are the Biggest Culprits

In order to protect your home from the additional water that accompanies spring weather, make sure you are properly redirecting water to move away from your home. This includes inspecting your roof and gutter systems. Downspouts must be attached properly and gutters need to be clear of all debris, including leaves or bird nests. Redirecting water away from your foundation and basement is vital to avoiding damage caused by the effects of spring weather.

Some homes make use of a sump pump; which is typically installed at the lowest spot of a basement floor where water would first accumulate. If your home does not currently include a sump pump, now is the time to have one installed. If you already utilize a sump pump, however, now is the time to inspect it and make sure your pump is fully functional.

Check for Evidence of Damage Done by Winter Weather

Due to a regular cycle of freezing and thawing, especially in northern states like Michigan, winter weather is known to wreak havoc on basement walls. A phenomenon known as frost heave can cause a foundation to move upward. This occurs when moisture within the soil around your foundation expands as it freezes. Frost heave is just one way in which harsh winter weather can lead to structural damage and cracks in the foundation or basement walls.

Inspecting your basement walls and foundation for new cracks or other damage in early spring will guard against further damage brought on by spring weather. You will also want to make sure that existing cracks, even those that have already been repaired, are not expanding.

The best precaution you can take against damage caused by varied spring weather is to have your home inspected by a professional. Find a local company with tested and proven foundation repair solutions that include a warranty like Tom’s Basement Waterproofing. Call Tom’s Basement Waterproofing at (586) 949-7826 or use the online contact form to schedule your inspection and save your home this spring.