Burlington, Vermont – Is your home in Vermont or New Hampshire physically moving this spring? As snowmelt and rain increase across the region, experts say homeowners in Burlington, Manchester, and surrounding communities often notice warning signs for the first time.
After a long winter, frozen ground across northern New England begins to thaw unevenly. As ice within the soil melts and moisture levels rise, the ground can settle or shift, changing how it supports homes. This seasonal transition is a common cause of spring foundation movement.
According to building and structural experts, the freeze-thaw cycle plays a major role in Vermont and New Hampshire. Soil expands when frozen, then contracts or softens as it thaws. When combined with heavy spring rain, this can place new pressure on foundations, basement walls, and footings.
Homeowners may notice doors or windows suddenly sticking, new cracks forming in drywall or masonry, or floors that feel slightly uneven. These changes often appear quickly during early spring and may worsen after periods of heavy rain.
Experts note that some spring movement is expected, especially in older homes or those with basements. However, spring is also when underlying foundation problems are most likely to reveal themselves.
Warning signs that should not be ignored include cracks that continue widening into late spring, doors and windows that remain misaligned, visible bowing or shifting in foundation walls, or water pooling near the home after snowmelt.
To reduce risk, homeowners are encouraged to manage drainage carefully during thaw season. Keeping gutters clear, directing downspouts away from foundations, and ensuring proper grading can help limit soil saturation. Annual inspections can help determine whether movement is seasonal or structural.
For first-time homeowners and buyers preparing for the spring market, foundation movement is often the first visible sign that ground conditions beneath a home have changed. Experts emphasize that early attention can prevent minor seasonal movement from becoming long-term damage.
