Spring Maintenance Checklist: Protecting Your Foundation from Seasonal Changes

As the snow melts and spring rains roll in, your home’s foundation becomes especially vulnerable to moisture, shifting soils, and sudden temperature changes. At A Better Choice, Inc., we’ve seen firsthand how spring weather can create serious problems for homeowners who aren't prepared.

To help you safeguard your investment, we’ve put together a comprehensive spring maintenance checklist focused on protecting your foundation and basement from seasonal damage.

1. Inspect Your Foundation for Cracks

Start with a thorough walk around your home. Look closely at the foundation walls—both inside and out—for visible cracks, bulging, or gaps.

• Hairline cracks are common, but anything wider than 1/8 inch should be monitored or evaluated by a professional.

• Vertical cracks are usually less serious than horizontal cracks, which can signal pressure from water-saturated soil.

💡 Tip: Use a pencil to mark the ends of any cracks you find, and check back in a month to see if they’ve expanded.

✅ 2. Clean and Extend Downspouts

Your downspouts play a major role in protecting your foundation. When they’re clogged or draining too close to your home, water can pool near the base of your foundation and seep inside.

• Ensure downspouts extend at least 4–6 feet away from your home.

• Clear out leaves, twigs, or debris that may have built up over winter.

💧 Excess water at the base of your foundation is one of the top causes of basement leaks and foundation cracks in spring.

✅ 3. Grade Your Soil for Proper Drainage

Over time, soil around your home can settle or erode, causing water to flow toward your foundation instead of away from it.

• Ensure the ground slopes away from your home at a minimum 5% grade (about 6 inches over 10 feet).

• Add fresh topsoil or landscape grading where needed to maintain the slope.

🌧️ Proper grading is your first line of defense against hydrostatic pressure and water intrusion.

✅ 4. Check Your Sump Pump (If You Have One)

Before the spring rains hit hard, test your sump pump to ensure it’s ready to handle heavy water flow.

• Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit and see if the pump activates.

• Clean any debris in the pit and check the discharge line for clogs or ice.

• Consider a battery backup system in case of spring storms that cause power outages.

✅ 5. Look for Moisture or Efflorescence in the Basement

Efflorescence—a white, chalky residue on basement walls—is a sign that water is entering your foundation. So is musty odor, damp spots, or peeling paint.

If you notice any of these issues, it may be time to consider:

• Interior waterproofing solutions

• Dehumidification systems

• Professional foundation assessment

✅ 6. Seal Windows, Doors, and Basement Openings

Cracks around basement windows or entry points can allow moisture and pests to enter. Use weather-resistant caulk to seal any gaps or deteriorating seals. Consider replacing older window wells or adding covers for additional protection.

✅ 7. Schedule a Professional Foundation Inspection

While DIY checks are helpful, nothing beats the trained eye of an experienced foundation repair specialist. At A Better Choice, Inc., we can:

• Diagnose subtle structural issues

• Recommend cost-effective waterproofing solutions

• Provide long-term protection against future seasonal shifts

How A Better Choice Can Help

Spring is a beautiful time in Pennsylvania—but it’s also one of the most critical times to ensure your foundation is protected. From crack repair and basement waterproofing to ventilation systems and drainage solutions, A Better Choice, Inc. is your trusted partner in year-round home protection.

Contact us today for a free inspection or to learn more about our foundation repair and waterproofing services.

Protect your home. Choose A Better Choice.