How does snowfall impact basement waterproofing? This will soon be a critical question for below-grade structures in Charlotte, NC. The city and surrounding area are currently under a Winter Storm Warning from the National Weather Service. According to NOAA, families in Charlotte will face up to eight inches of snow by this evening.

So, back to critical issue at hand; what risks do these storms pose to foundations and below-grade structures?

The greatest danger is to basements that have already suffered cracks. The frozen ground can cause existing fissures to widen quickly. Homeowners and businesses with these issues are at risk and should look into foundation repair kits or call basement waterproofing professionals in their area.

Even if your basement or foundation is currently waterproofed and crack-free, it could still be at risk from the oncoming storm. Large snowfalls allow a significant amount of water to accumulate on the ground simultaneously. Melting causes all of this water to quickly seep into the ground around a foundation. Snowmelt events result in a dramatic increase in the hydrostatic pressure around a foundation in a short amount of time. Below-grade structures without high quality waterproofing membranes, drainage boards and drainage tiles (collectively known as a waterproofing system) may find themselves underprepared for such a large influx of water.