Managing Freezing, Thawing and Heaving Driveways with Gutters and Eavestroughs

Most liquids shrink when they cool to freezing, because the molecules slow down and cluster together. However, water behaves differently after it cools to 39 º F / 4 º C. It begins to gradually expand again until it freezes. Then it expands another 9% almost instantly, as anybody will know who forgot a bottle of beer in the freezer.

How Earth Heaves Through Winter into Spring

Something similar happens to water underground that has penetrated the soil from above, or is there naturally. It expands in winter when it freezes, displacing the soil above it as it does. Then it contracts again in spring when it melts. This leaves a space above it into which the earth or anything on it may collapse.

The practical results for homeowners range from depressions in driveways, all the way through to cracked foundations. To complicate matters further, the depressions may eventually crack, providing new opportunities for more water to find its way underground or under the foundations.

Defence Measures Homeowners Can Implement

Our tactics are defensive. We cannot stop the rain and melt. However, we can lead it away from our homes and driveways through a system of open gutters. The eavestroughs on the roof are our first line of defence. They must be sufficiently large to capture all the water coming down the slope. There must also be sufficient downpipes to receive it without them overflowing.

From there, homeowners should ensure there are adequate drains and culverts to carry the water safely away from the house. If they then ensure their driveways are well sealed and without cracks, this should be the end of heaving driveways during freezing and thawing.

Many Calgary Homes Are Under Eaves-Troughed

Many Calgary homes are surprisingly under eaves-troughed, despite the harsh climate. Moreover, climate scientists warn of more severe weather extremes due to global warming. Despite best efforts, no eavestrough system lasts forever. This adds up to the sensible conclusion we should inspect ours annually.

Are your gutters and downpipes no longer working satisfactorily – and perhaps showing signs of serious wear and tear? Valiant Exteriors offers a free eavestrough and gutter inspection service, and if they need replacement our prices are competitive.

We are a small, family-owned Calgary business with a home of our own. We understand what is best for Calgary conditions. Please phone 403 829 1661 for advice, or message us so we can call back in the morning if it is after hours now.