While Texas summers get most of the limelight, our winters are getting colder. As we found out in 2021, you dismiss them at your own peril. The dramatic change in temperatures between the summer and winter months can wreak havoc on your foundations, too.
Today, we’re going to talk about what you can do this fall (and winter) to make sure your foundation stays safe.
Fall Foundation Protection
There probably isn’t a single Texan that isn’t at least a little bit happy when summer ends, but your foundation is vulnerable during the colder months. Protecting your foundation during the Autumn can help you keep it protected during the winter, the most dangerous time of year for foundations.
Moisture is the big problem foundations encounter in the fall and winter. The rainy season begins in October and an especially rainy autumn can spell disaster for your home’s foundation. That means that protecting your home from foundation problems means protecting it from moisture.
Clean & Inspect Gutters
As dirt, leaves, and other debris begin to clog your gutters, water will spill over in places that it shouldn’t. Gutters are a home’s best defense against water erosion, so if they aren’t functioning properly you may develop a problem. Make sure your downspouts are directing water far enough away from your home, too.
Clear Property Of Leaves
Raking leaves can seem like a never-ending chore in the Fall, but keeping your yard free from leaves can help protect your foundation. Leaves may build up on your property, trapping water where it shouldn't. If your gutters and downspouts aren’t directing that water properly, this can be doubly dangerous.
Check The Slope & Grade
The slope and grade around your home become especially important in the fall, when increased rainfall may lead to standing water. Standing water may divert to your home’s foundation and start causing problems.
Wrap Your Pipes
It doesn’t freeze often in East Texas, but when it does it happens suddenly. It can save you a lot--both time, money, and energy--to wrap your pipes in the fall. If your pipes burst because they’re frozen, you’ll not only wind up with a hefty plumbing bill, but you may also need foundation repairs as well. Even worse, most insurance companies claim these are "preventable accidents." That means they won't cover the cost of those repairs.
Let Us Help You Get Ready This Winter
If you’re worried about your foundation, contact Lone Star Foundation Repair and schedule a free inspection. We can show you what you need to do to protect your foundation this winter season.
