A Major Winter Storm Is on the Way: How to Protect Your Home Before the Snow Hits

 

A Major Winter Storm Is on the Way: How to Protect Your Home Before the Snow Hits

Meteorologists are predicting a significant winter weather event beginning Sunday, with snowfall totals reaching up to a foot of snow across our area. While a fresh blanket of snow can look beautiful, heavy winter storms can create serious risks for your home—especially your basement, crawl space, and foundation.

 

Taking a few proactive steps now can help prevent costly damage, water intrusion, and structural issues once the snow starts to melt.

Why Heavy Snowfall Can Be a Problem for Your Home

Snow itself isn’t always the biggest threat—it’s what happens during and after the storm that causes trouble.

Snowmelt & Water Intrusion

When temperatures fluctuate, snow begins to melt and refreeze. This creates large amounts of water around your foundation. If your home has:

• Poor exterior drainage

• Foundation cracks

• Inadequate waterproofing

…that water can find its way into your basement or crawl space.

Added Stress on Your Foundation

A foot of snow is heavy—especially when it becomes saturated. The weight of snow-packed soil can increase hydrostatic pressure against foundation walls, potentially worsening bowing walls or existing cracks.

Frozen Soil & Expanding Pressure

As the ground freezes, it expands. This freeze-thaw cycle can:

• Worsen foundation cracks

• Shift footings

• Impact basement and crawl space walls

How This Storm Can Impact Basements, Crawl Spaces & Foundations

Basements

• Water seepage through wall cracks or floor joints

• Overworked sump pumps or pump failure

• Damp conditions that lead to mold growth

Crawl Spaces

• Standing water from poor drainage

• Increased humidity and condensation

• Wood rot, mold, and musty odors

Foundations

• Bowing or leaning walls

• Widening cracks

• Long-term structural instability if pressure continues

Steps You Can Take Now to Protect Your Home

✔️ Check Your Sump Pump

• Make sure it’s working properly

• Test the float switch

• Ensure discharge lines are clear and directed away from your home

(If you have a battery backup system, now is the time to confirm it’s ready.)

✔️ Clear Snow & Ice Away from Your Foundation

• Shovel snow at least a few feet away from the home

• Keep basement windows and window wells clear

• Avoid piling snow against foundation walls

✔️ Inspect Downspouts & Gutters

• Make sure downspouts extend far from the foundation

• Clear debris to prevent ice dams and overflow

✔️ Seal Visible Foundation Cracks

• Small cracks can allow water intrusion during snowmelt

• Larger cracks may indicate structural issues that should be evaluated by a professional

✔️ Watch for Warning Signs After the Storm

Once the snow begins to melt, keep an eye out for:

• Damp basement walls or floors

• Musty odors

• Pooling water near the foundation

• New or worsening cracks

When to Call a Professional

If your home has a history of water issues—or if you notice any new problems during or after this storm—it’s important to act quickly. Basement waterproofing and foundation issues rarely fix themselves, and winter weather can accelerate damage.

 

A professional inspection can help identify:

• Hidden water entry points

• Structural concerns

• Preventative solutions to protect your home long-term

Stay Ahead of Winter Weather

This upcoming storm is a reminder that winter can be tough on homes—but preparation makes all the difference. Taking action now can help protect your basement, crawl space, and foundation from damage that could last long after the snow melts.

 

If you have concerns about how this storm could affect your home, our team is here to help with expert inspections and proven solutions designed for harsh weather conditions.

 

Stay safe, stay warm, and stay proactive this winter.