Cracks in Your Walls? It Might Be a Foundation Problem

As autumn settles over southern Wisconsin, cooler temperatures, falling moisture levels, and freeze-thaw cycles begin working quietly beneath your home. Those fine cracks in your walls or around your chimney might seem harmless — but they could be early warning signs of a foundation problem that will only worsen as winter arrives.

At Bollerud Masonry in Milton, we specialize in identifying and repairing foundation issues before they become major safety or structural concerns. Here’s what to watch for this season — and why fall is the perfect time to act.

Why Fall Weather Exposes Foundation Weaknesses

Wisconsin’s soil expands and contracts throughout the year, especially during fall and early winter when moisture levels fluctuate and temperatures drop below freezing. This movement puts stress on concrete and masonry foundations, leading to visible cracks, leaning chimneys, and uneven floors.

When cold weather sets in, those small gaps can trap water, which freezes and expands, making the damage worse by spring. That’s why fall foundation inspection and repair is critical — it’s your last chance to stabilize your structure before the deep freeze hits.

Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Cracks can appear anywhere — but their pattern and location reveal a lot about the underlying issue. Common red flags include:

• Diagonal cracks running from window or door corners
• Horizontal cracks in basement or foundation walls
• Separation between brick or block joints
• Doors or windows sticking when temperatures shift
• Leaning chimneys or stair-step cracks in exterior brickwork

These symptoms point to foundation movement, settlement, or hydrostatic pressure, all of which can worsen rapidly as the ground freezes.

Masonry and Foundation Repair: The Safe, Long-Term Fix

At Bollerud Masonry, we don’t believe in quick fixes. Our foundation repair process focuses on structural integrity and long-term stability, not patchwork.

Our services include:

• Crack repair and tuckpointing for interior and exterior masonry
• Foundation stabilization and wall reinforcement
• Chimney repair and rebuilding for structural safety
• Waterproofing and drainage correction to prevent future damage

We assess the source of the movement — not just the symptom — and reinforce your foundation using proven masonry restoration techniques designed for Wisconsin’s climate.

Why Fall Is the Ideal Time for Repairs

Before winter’s deep freeze, temperatures are still mild enough for masonry materials and sealants to cure properly. Addressing foundation and chimney issues now means:

• Safer curing conditions and stronger repair bonds
• Prevention of frost-related expansion in existing cracks
• A stable structure ready for winter snow load

Waiting until spring often means repairing worse damage at higher cost. Fall repairs protect your home, your safety, and your investment through the toughest months of the year.

A Winter-Ready Home Starts at the Foundation

Your foundation and chimney are your home’s anchors — and when they move, everything above them is at risk. As autumn moisture gives way to freezing temperatures, now is the time to ensure your structure is secure.

Whether you’ve noticed small cracks or significant movement, Bollerud Masonry can help with expert foundation inspection, repair, and reinforcement before the snow flies.



Protect Your Home Before the Freeze Hits

Don’t ignore cracks this fall — they’re your home’s way of warning you. Let Bollerud Masonry restore strength and stability to your foundation before Wisconsin’s winter takes hold.