Basements often have a reputation for being dark, damp places filled with bugs. This does not have to be the case, though, especially if you spend some time maintaining your basement and checking for problems. Now is a good time to look for puddles, cracks, and other issues that could be exacerbated by falling temperatures and winter weather events.
Prepare for Water Infiltration
Frost infiltration through windows and gaps in concrete blocks can cause considerable damage. When the frost melts and water enters into the basement it can encourage mold growth. The expansion of water into ice crystals forces cracks and gaps to grow, which can lead to foundation problems. Correcting the grade of the soil may also help and adding insulation around perimeter basement walls keeps them warmer. Clean out the gutters so that ice does not create ice dams, which can drip all the way down to the foundation.
Seal Gaps and Cracks
Sealing gaps and cracks is one of the easiest things that you can do in order to get your basement ready for autumn and winter. Use the appropriate type of caulking to fill in little cracks and gaps around basement windows. If you notice a crack that is more than 0.25 inches wide, it’s a good idea to have a structural inspection done on your basement. Cracks like this could indicate a problem with your home’s foundation.
Keep Vermin Out
When the weather gets cold, people are not the only ones who want to get warm. Mice, squirrels, bats, and birds may also try to get in. The same goes for insects, snakes, and other critters, as they may use openings for plumbing, furnace vents, and electrical systems to try to get into the basement. Seal these areas with masonry.
At GJ Macrae Foundation Repair, we take care of all sorts of basement problems. Now is the time to get them fixed so that your home is ready for the changing of the seasons. Contact us through our website or give us a call at (905) 824-2577.
