Winter is here, bringing with it a number of challenges for your foundations. The question is: Will structures supported by sonotubes withstand the cold?
Sonotube Foundations and Winter’s Challenges
Between freezing and thawing, the increase in humidity, and the risk of collapse, your sonotubes are truly put to the test. Find out how freeze-thaw cycles and winter’s humidity can threaten the integrity of your structures.
The Effect of Cold on Sonotubes
Freezing and Thawing : These cycles are among the greatest enemies of your sonotube. Water in the soil freezes, expands and can displace sonotubes, compromising the stability of your structure.
Moisture and Subsidence : An Unknown Danger for Sonotube Foundations
Water Saturated Soil : Winter isn’t just synonymous with snow and ice; it’s also a time when soil moisture can increase considerably. This excessive moisture can infiltrate around and under the foundations, making the soil less stable and more malleable.
Risk of Subsidence : When soil becomes saturated with water, it loses some of its ability to support structures effectively. For sonotubes, this means an increased risk of subsidence. Moist and soft soil can shift, losing its optimal alignment and level, thus jeopardizing the structural integrity of the entire building.
Soil Movements : Moisture can also cause lateral soil movements. These movements can exert uneven pressure on the sonotubes, leading to cracks or deformations which, over time, can cause significant damage to your building.
How Screw Piles Can Save Your Foundations
In the unforgiving world of foundations, screw piles stand out for their robustness against Mother Nature’s challenges. Designed to withstand extreme conditions, they represent a formidable solution to winter weather. Here’s how.
Depth Stability : Unlike sonotubes, which are more prone to shallow soil movement, Pro Post Foundations screw piles are anchored deep, below the frost line. This ensures that your foundations remain stable, even in the face of freezing and thawing.
Galvanized Steel : The galvanized steel of screw piles stands out as a superior material choice, especially when compared with traditional wood and concrete. Unlike wood, which can deteriorate under the effects of moisture and cold, or concrete, which is susceptible to cracking in freezing temperatures, galvanized steel offers exceptional resilience. Its galvanized coating acts as a protective shield against corrosion and oxidation, two common problems in winter. Furthermore, steel neither expands nor contracts significantly with temperature variations, guaranteeing exceptional stability.
Winter shouldn’t be a source of stress for homeowners. By understanding how this season affects your foundations and by considering alternatives such as screw piles, you can protect and preserve your home’s structure and safety. Contact Pro Post Foundations today for more information and make sure your foundations are ready to face winter’s challenges.