Most people are sensitive to changes in the weather. In fact, you probably talk about the weather with family, close friends, acquaintances and even strangers. You watch and listen to forecasts and choose your attire based on weather reports. While you may spend a lot of time thinking about how the weather will affect you, you may rarely think of how the weather and the climate affect your home.
What happens to your home when temperatures change? Can colder weather affect your home's framing, foundation or other structural elements? And how does climate affect houses? Read on to find out.
Frost Heave Prevention
If you aren’t familiar with the terminology, frost heaving occurs when freezing temperatures cause ice to form and penetrate the soil. The soil swells (or heaves) in response. According to Canada's National Research Council, as wet soil freezes, it turns into a hard mass similar to concrete. Frost heave does not occur unless a source of water is present.
Luckily, frost heaving is rarely a problem in heated buildings. The heat loss from the building itself keeps the surrounding soil at temperatures above freezing. Damage can occur, however, to unheated buildings, driveways and sidewalks. Frost heaving can also be the root cause of drywall cracks in outdoor buildings, such as detached garages and sheds.
Frost Heave Solutions
Although frost heave is a natural phenomenon, homeowners can take action to reduce its harmful effects. First, choose the right type of soil for your property. If possible, stay away from finer, more absorbent soils composed of clay and silt. Choose coarser soil types that allow better drainage. Doing so helps to prevent the soil from retaining water caused by heavy rainfalls and melted snow. You can try to drain your yard using one of several DIY methods or consult a professional if frost heave continues to be an issue.
